Posts Tagged ‘Chicago Runway Shows’
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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Macy’s Glamorama
Tuesday, August 10th, 2010
This Friday night, Macy’s Passport presents the always-popular, star-studded Glamorama. Starting at 8 pm, the four-city tour stops by the Chicago Theatre with an exciting fashion and entertainment showcase. With performances by Grammy award-winning singer Macy Gray and young hit-maker Eric Hutchinson, Macy’s elaborate fashion presentation hits the runway to display looks by Marc Jacobs, Just Cavalli, Sonia Rykiel, Jean Paul Gaultier and many more. This over-the-top event—with an opening theatrical segment by Chris March, a Project Runway season four finalist—will once again benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. Tickets range from $50 to $1,000 and can be purchased here. Also swing by the exclusive afterparty at the Macy’s on State Street.
By Meghan Turner
Image courtesy of Macy’s
Tags: Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Runway Shows, Chicago Shopping, Chris March, Jean Paul Gaultier, Just Cavalli, Macy's, Macy's Glamorama, Marc Jacobs, Sonia Rykiel
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Fashion Salvation
Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010
Last Wednesday night, I attended Fashion Salvation, a runway show at Salvage One. I always wanted an excuse to lounge in the unconventionally stylish space—a graveyard of architectural relics—and this show provided the opportunity to do so. Surrounded by larger than life Grecian columns, carousel horses, and monstrous neon signs, the evening immediately took an enchanting tone. Produced by Y.E.S. (Young Executives for Success) to raise money for Dress for Success, a program dedicated to supplying professional attire to disadvantaged woman, the event was impressive from beginning to end. Juggling a cilantro-spiked cocktail and tasty canapé, I took my seat in one of the mismatched antique chairs surrounding a runway draped in Persian rugs. Shortly afterward, fashions from Bonnie & Clyde’s boutique, Marisa Swystun and Agga B took the stage.
A grayscale collection from Bonnie and Clyde’s was edgy, futuristic and grungy (look shown above center). Zombie-like models showcased men’s and women’s separates with modern cuts of leather, jersey and denim that lay somewhere between street urchin, avant-garde and Edward Scissorhands. The gauzy tanks, long tube skirts, fitted jackets and thin sweaters were both practical and appealing. With the addition of clunky combat boots, bug-ish magnifying eyewear, and gothic makeup, the show’s aesthetic was reminiscent of one Mr. Rick Owens.
Marisa Swystun’s collection had more movement and shape (above left). Silky, feminine dresses, skirts and hand-printed kimono tops are clearly her specialty. It was as if she created each colorful, airy piece specifically for a hot summer evening. The collection covered a wide range of styles, from floor-length, bohemian frocks to shorter, more conservative cocktail attire. While soft and sweet was the overall theme, the element of surprise was still there. One-shoulder numbers and zipper detailing showed some attitude.
Like a harmonious fusion of Bonnie and Clyde’s edginess and Marisa’s glamour, Agga B’s looks (above right) fell somewhere between feminine and dangerous. Her perfectly executed designs came in sultry neutrals, but with a pinch of glitz. Hot pants, sequined bodysuits, and silk capes were the central theme for her cohesive collection. The combination of sporty and glam, incredible use of material, and fresh silhouettes brought to mind what gripped me about Prada’s spring runway. Agga’s professional styling skills were evident throughout: pant-less models armed with red lipstick and dark sunnies helped create a femme-fatale-meets-bathing-beauty vibe. Very sexy and very chic.
Though all entirely different, each featured collection was dense with creativity and artistry. While the spirit Salvage One added its own energy to the event, it was the show-stopping designs that really made magic that night.
Photography by Landtex Graphics
Tags: Agga B., Bonnie and Clyde's, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Shows, Chicago Runway Shows, Dress for Success Chicago, Marisa Swystun
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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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Art and Fashion Collide: SAIC NightWalk
Thursday, May 13th, 2010
Years ago, Karl Lagerfeld and Yves Saint Laurent disagreed about whether fashion is art. Karl said no; Yves said yes. Countless others in the fashion industry have argued this same idea, but a unanimous agreement isn’t a likely outcome. I personally waver between the two notions but tend to side with Yves. When I see work like what was presented at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s NightWalk 2010, I can’t help but see a walking art form, an artistic vision.
NightWalk was a show that forced the average fashion lover to expand his or her understanding of fashion design. After all, it can be so much more than what’s worn on the street or to a gala. The designs we saw last Friday night are an exclusive testament to the designer’s imagination and skill, not to the consumer’s taste and pocketbook. By negating conventional clothing norms, the student designers started with a figment of the imagination and brought it to life, as a painter does with a canvas.
Design Rachel Goldberg (BFA 2010). Top image: Designs by Bonnie Alayne (BFA 2011). Both photos by Robert F. Carl
The artistic nature of their work was accentuated by the venue: Griffin Court in the Modern Wing of the Art Institute. Towering projection screens, strategically placed bartenders, and dispersed cocktail tables encased the dramatically long runway, where we saw what felt like hundreds of designs. To start, designer Maria Pinto offered a tribute to the late Eunice W. Johnson, the creator and director of Ebony Fashion Fair, a traveling fashion tour of haute couture and ready-to-wear. We watched a short documentary praising her work, and then a parade of eight designer gowns from the tour whipped down the runway.
The next highlight was Gray Graham, a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist and SAIC alum. As the evening’s Legend of Fashion honoree, he presented 10 looks from his Fall 2010 collection. Gary’s mishmash of earth tones and patterns kept with his ruggedly chic aesthetic that nods to the past but keeps a keen eye on the contemporary. Leather, fur, chiffon, tulle, jersey and organza were woven through a collection of fitted jackets, tapestry skirts, chunky knits, patterned jacquard leggings, and more.
From left to right: Design by NightWalk Scholarship winner Kylee Alexander (BFA 2012), design by NightWalk Scholarship winner Soh Park (BFA 2012), and design by NightWalk Scholarship winner Michael Walls (BFA 2012). Photography by James Prinz
The final show belonged the students. Sophomores, juniors and seniors crafted elaborate and eccentric ensembles that often conjured double takes and gasps. The runway was a theatrical display that ranged from futuristic to regal, whimsical to gothic, distressed to glamorous. Along with their obvious construction skills, the young designers proved their ability to craft the outrageous – squirrel-faced masks, Candyland-like headwear, and stuffed animal trousers – and the breathtaking, like a tangerine velvet gown and purple chiffon ombré dress. There were hints of Alexander McQueen, Maison Martin Margiela, and Halston (a SAIC alum), but it was the clear-cut originality that kept eyes glued to the runway.
The NightWalk 2010 fashion show was an exhibition of talent and creativity. It’s designs like these that demonstrate how fashion is a way of thinking, a way of communicating, a form of self-expression, and an extension of the body. The students of SAIC proved that through fashion, we can find art.
By Meghan Turner
Tags: a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, Alexander McQueen, Art Institute Modern Wing, Bonnie Alayne, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Runway Shows, Ebony Fashion Fair, Eunice W. Johnson, Grace Lee, Gray Graham, Halston, Karl Lagerfeld, Kylee Alexander, Luis Antonio Rodriguez, Maison Martin Margiela, Michael Walls, NightWalk 2010, Rachel Goldberg, SAIC, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Seth Meyerink-Griffin, Soh Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Yves Saint Laurent
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Style Before Design
Monday, May 10th, 2010
On Earth Day this year, the Chicago’s fashionable swarmed Crimson Lounge for a runway show with a twist. Instead of showcasing individual designers, it focused on the stylists. Hosted by Vyne, a Chicago-based events organization and publication, and the Chicago Fashion Foundation, Style Wars was no predictable walk down the runway but rather a showcase of avant-garde fashion through the minds of Chicago’s top stylists. Each stylist was responsible for creating five high fashion looks. The first personally represented the stylist. The second piece was only black and white. The third communicated a global issue (the winning look from this category will be featured in Vyne’s May issue). The fourth was inspired by Stephen Meisel’s editorial “Make Love Not War” in Italian Vogue, and the final concept was derived from the color crimson in honor of the event sponsor.
As the show began, I was in awe of the stylists’ originality and creativity. Models with big hair and black lips presented what was more like walking art than functional fashion. Two of my favorite looks were from the winner, Christina Demos. Her on-trend mix of black and white, including an American Apparel piano scarf, piano tights, Chanel wedge boots, and twirling striped umbrella, was circus-like and mesmerizing. The other favorite was her global issue composition. She dressed her model in a tutu of Red Eye newspapers, a Wet Seal “will work for shoes” t-shirt, Balmain booties, a Marlboro cigarette necklace, and soup can bangles. In case you didn’t get the homeless reference, a mini shopping cart dangled ridiculously from her hand. Ruben Lopez and CT Hedden were both named a runner-up. Ruben’s formal approach included feather laden wedding gowns, ballroom gloves and opulent millinery. CT’s outfits, like the Alexander McQueen dress and Chanel clogs, were simple but wearable.
Although the event was under organized and unpolished (no appetizers as promised and ill-informed presenters) the stylist’s creations stole the show. Too often Chicago gets overlooked as a worthy player in the fashion industry because it’s play-it-safe, conservative rep. The stylists’ creations proved Midwesterners can go well beyond the stereotypical spoon-fed fashion.
Images courtesy of Vyne
Tags: Alexander McQueen, American Apparel, Chanel, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Foundation, Chicago Runway Shows, Chicago Stylists, Christina Demos, Crimson Lounge, CT Hedden, Ruben Lopez, STYLE WARS, Vyne magazine, Wet Seal
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The Weekend Events + Sales
Friday, May 7th, 2010
Two looks from Gary Graham’s Spring 2010 collection
EVENTS
Fashion 2010 at The Art Institute’s Modern Wing (111 S Michigan Avenue)
The SAIC kicks off the day-long Fashion 2010 with a fashion show at 2pm. The Walk 2010, which is part of the SAIC’s annual gala benefit, starts at 6pm. Finally, end the night with NightWalk 2010, which begins at 9pm.
Hollywood Glam at Park 52 (5201 S Harper Avenue)
The Hollywood Glam Fashion Premiere & Party kicks off at 10pm. The event will feature K~Fleye, Double Stitch, Entourage Man, Kham’ryn B., and Anna Fong. Admission and cocktails are complimentary. RSVP to eve@eventsbyeve.com.
Raw/State at Sharp Building (37 S Wabash Avenue)
Now through May 23, this SAIC graduate fashion exhibition showcases the work of students pursuing SAIC graduate degrees in Fashion, Body & Garment.
Gary Graham Personal Appearance at Robin Richman (2108 N Damen Avenue)
This Saturday, meet SAIC alum Gary Graham from 5-8pm at Robin Richman. Shop the spring collection and specialty pieces for one night only.
Dress Up Grand Opening Week (1937 N Damen Avenue)
Dress Up boutique celebrates the opening of their first store. From May 8-15, shoppers can enjoy 15% off everything in the store.
The Sometimes Store Grand Re-Opening (632 W Addison Street)
The Sometimes Store celebrates its grand re-opening on Sunday from 11am to 8pm. In honor of Mother’s Day, shoppers can bring in a photo of their mom for 20% off their purchase.
Victor Alfaro Appearance at local Carson Pirie Scott Stores
The designer makes a series of personal appearances on Friday (Wilmette from 12-3pm and Lombard from 5-8pm) and Saturday (Orland Park from 1-4pm) to host one-on-one style appointments at Carsons. Receive 20% off Victor by Victor Alfaro sportswear, footwear, and accessory purchases.
SALES
Vintage Sale at Eskell Boutique (1509 N Milwaukee Avenue)
Eskell is having a vintage sale this weekend that features racks from Kokorokoko and Chi-town Vintage. Stop by Saturday (11am-8pm) or Sunday (12-5pm).
Spring Accessories Fling at Le Dress (1741 W Division Street)
From Friday to Sunday, Le Dress invites shoppers to accessorize their favorite frocks during an all-weekend celebration. Enjoy 25% off any accessory.
City Soles Spring Event (various Chicago locations)
From 10am-10pm, City Soles will offer 20% off all new spring footwear. Plus, enjoy cocktails, music, raffles, giveaways and more.
RE.STOCK your Spring Wardrobe (1452 N Milwaukee Avenue)
RE.STOCK Shop will open again this weekend in Bucktown. Save up to 80% off retail on men and women’s designer clothing from through Sunday.
More upcoming fashion events and sales
Image courtesy of Gary Graham
Tags: Anna Fong, Carson Pirie Scott, Carsons, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Runway Shows, Chicago Sales, Chicago Shopping, City Soles, Double Stitch, Dress Up, Entourage Man, Eskell, Fashion 2010, Gary Graham, Kham’ryn B., K~Fleye, Le Dress, NightWalk 2010, RE.STOCK Shop, Robin Richman, SAIC, The Sometimes Store, The Walk 2010, Victor Alfaro
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The SAIC NightWalk 2010
Monday, May 3rd, 2010
A design from the 2009 SAIC fashion show
The Art Institute is one of my favorite places in Chicago, especially since the opening of the Modern Wing. When I heard a new fashion benefit, NightWalk 2010, will be held this Friday in the museum’s magnificent new addition, I knew it was an event not to be missed. This late-night (9pm-12am) fashion party culminates the day-long School of the Art Institute of Chicago fashion celebration that starts that same day, with a 2pm fashion show (which quickly sold out) and a 7pm annual gala scholarship benefit, The Walk 2010.
NightWalk 2010 presents the top designs from the SAIC runway show as well as 10 new runway designs by Gary Graham, a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist, 1992 SAIC graduate, and the evening’s Legend of Fashion honoree. The event begins with hors d’oeuvres and an open bar before guests make their way to a standing-room-only “Best of Show” runway presentation of cutting-edge designs by SAIC sophomores, juniors and seniors. Desserts and coffee cap off the evening. Tickets are $100 and support SAIC student scholarships. Come out and support local fashion and design education at a dynamic event featuring breathtaking designs and impressive designers.
Get tickets here.
By Meghan Turner
Image courtesy of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Tags: Art Institute Modern Wing, CFDA, CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Runway Shows, Fashion 2010, Gary Graham, NightWalk 2010, SAIC, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, The Art Institute of Chicago, Vogue
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Carried Away
Monday, April 26th, 2010
I’m sure you’re all aware of a little movie called “Sex and the City 2.” Carrie and her crew are back, and I hope you’re just as excited to see it as I am! Though it won’t hit theaters until May 27, now’s your chance to commemorate the fabulous four and all their designer splendor. This Wednesday from 7-10pm is the second installment of The Fashion District series at District Bar (170 W Ontario), which happens to be SATC-inspired.
For your viewing pleasure, top Chicago shoe boutiques will present their sexiest spring styles in a runway show. All wine bottles and salads are half off, and if you bring your own Mr. Big (or Smith Jarrod), you’ll receive 10% off all regular menu items. Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha will provide the entertainment as the first movie is played on District’s 40 flat screen TVs and a DJ provides the background music. Most importantly, one lucky lady will walk away with two lust worthy parting gifts: a pair of Christian Louboutin “Decollete” pink glitter pumps (above) and two tickets to the first showing of “Sex and the City 2” in Chicago. As Christian says, “Put on this hot pump, and add a little sparkle to your life!”
Tags: Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Runway Shows, Christian Louboutin, District Bar, Sex and the City, Sex and the City 2
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IMAGINE the Possiblity
Wednesday, April 21st, 2010
To be honest, when I headed to my first IMAGINE fashion show by the International Academy of Design & Technology, I was skeptical of the show’s production value. I had had heard good things, but, after all, it’s produced entirely by…students? In short, the show was quite possibly the year’s best. In fact, these students could teach the pros a thing or two about how to create an energetic, quality runway show that gets the audience genuinely excited about the future of Chicago fashion.
Immediately upon walking in, the Grand Hall of Union Station imposed a striking impression. Alit with spotlights, the architecture’s towering columns and marble floors transformed the commuter destination into a dramatic, sexy event space. The reception area housed a square-shaped bar and a Michelle Tan installation. After staring up at Michelle’s designs and duly noting some future purchases, I made my way past the partition and to the runway.
To open the show, NBC’s Ginger Zee—donning a dress by a student presenter—took the stage. She elaborated on how the proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House and provided more information on Michelle, a successful IADT graduate as well as the night’s honorary designer. After the introductions, Shiny Toy Guns provided a three-song musical performance that started with “Major Tom” from the Lincoln MKZ commercial. It was quite a heart-pumping warm-up.
When the song commenced, a screen came down and hid the band from sight as the first model appeared. On either side of the stage were two large projection screens that displayed each of the 13 design themes, including “Checks and Balances,” “Woodstock,” “Champaign Toast,” and “Culture Couture.” Above the runway, the 32 student designers’ names appeared on a LED-like sign as their creations hit the stage. The range of their aesthetics was accentuated by the various themes, which streamlined the extensive range of styles into one cohesive show.
Of the many, many womenswear and some menswear I saw, my favorites were the “Street” and “Faux Effect” themes. The Street looks were the most daring and youthful. The bandeau tops, sequin suspenders, short hems, star-pattered jeans, and black and gold bolero were all interesting and fresh takes on streetwear. The Faux Effect theme closed the show in a sensory finale that was both dynamic and breathtaking. The Edward Sissorhands-ish music was combined with snow-like confetti that rained on the audience. The looks included faux fur coats, shawls and tops that the models presented at a pace much slower than the preceding looks. From where I was sitting, the fake fur appeared as soft and luxurious as the real thing.
As these young fashion designers move into their careers, we look forward to seeing how they add to the industry, whether that be in Chicago, New York, LA or beyond. Though this economy may be an intimidating and challenging front to face, we saw some talent that’s destined for big things.
By Meghan Turner
Photography by Scott Kallstrand
Tags: Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Runway Shows, Ginger Zee, IADT, IMAGINE Fashion Show, International Academy of Design and Technology, Michelle Tan
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