Posts Tagged ‘Christina Fan’
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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Chicago Blogger Profile: Ryan Beshel of The Bowtie Memoirs
Thursday, June 17th, 2010
Sometimes there’s too many fashion events to attend them all. Fatigue can hit in a big way, and then comfy PJ’s trump the glamorous stilettos, champagne and mingling. That’s why we’re lucky local blogs like Ryan Beshel’s The Bowtie Memoirs exist. The avid event attendee makes an appearance (bowie in tow!) at local soirees and later blogs about his experience for those of us otherwise engaged. From fashion shows to store openings to product launches, Ryan’s, 27, name is a regular on party guest lists and one of the friendliest faces there—not to mention one of the best dressed. If you haven’t been already, I’m pleased to introduce you to Ryan and his fabulous blog, so that when your PJ’s call your name, you won’t miss the show. Welcome to The Bowtie Memoirs!
Besides bowties and blogging, what else interests you?
People interest me. Be it people watching or just meeting new people every day, I find that you can learn so much about yourself from others. I’m also interested in sharing experiences with others. Mentoring the individuals who are finding their way in this industry gives me great joy. After all, I was in that same place not too long ago.
Are you from Chicago?
I’m from Gurnee, about 45 minutes north of Chicago. So, I have always had ties to the city. I went to Warren Township High School, and then I went to Columbia College of Chicago for about a year to study film and video. I ended up switching my major and finally earned a degree in Fashion Marketing and Management at the fantastic Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago.
How did you get into blogging?
It initially started as a recommendation by a few friends. I started attending many events and was finding that many people remembered me from event to event—thank you, bowtie! Eventually, I decided to start the blog so my family, especially my Mom, could see what I was doing here in the city. I also wanted to keep a sort of online journal that documented my life just before graduation and then after. In addition, I wanted to show what I saw of this city’s industry through my point of view.
What is your individual approach?
Well, I think relationships are so important in the industry, so I always like to touch upon who was at the events I attend. I’ll admit, I’m not a “serial blogger.” Sometimes I even miss a week or so. I focus on quality when I write my posts, and I always try to do my best to really describe what the event was like. Every now and then, I throw in a post called “Obsessions of the Bowtie,” where I highlight some of my favorite retailers, designers or products. My biggest focus is trying to expose the emerging, up-and-coming designers and products.
Who are your readers?
Many of my readers are already in the industry. It’s also those individuals who have become my friends and now check to see themselves in a post. Also, there are many students who are working their way into the industry that follow my blog. Then there is my family, who reads to see what I’m up to and check out the path that I am taking in Chicago.
Why do you think blogging is such a viral phenomenon?
Because it’s so instantaneous. When I started blogging, I would go to an event and then have a post up an hour after it ended. I was covering the event and then getting the word out about it before NBC.com, Time Out Chicago, CS, etc. Our world has learned that we no longer have to wait, and we’ve become inpatient because we have everything at our fingertips. It also offers an array of opinions, not just what the local news is telling you. Blogging offers the reader a way to connect with the writer at a more personal level.
What is your professional background?
Well, I am a new graduate, but I have completed an array of experiences. I was an editorial intern at Michigan Avenue magazine and worked directly with Susanna Negovan, the editor-in-chief. I have had the chance to work with some of Chicago’s smartest and most influential women, including the Barbara Glass of InFashion With Barbara Glass. Right after college, I worked freelance with another Chicago star and successful publicist Julie Darling. She taught me the ins and outs of public relations and introduced me to so many great people. Most recently, I interned for another fabulous woman named Sarah Burrows, the Marketing Manager at The 900 Shops.
What do you plan to do in the future professionally?
I’ve recently taken a job at a model and talent agency called Agency Galatea. I work for the Beauty and Fashion Director, Marie P. Anderson. In my new position, I assist in the daily management of models, comps and portfolios, photo shoots, runway shows, and the procurement of print work for talent. I also manage the website updates, online portfolios and social media.
What are your plans for The Bowtie Memoirs?
In the future, I’d like to look to my friends to be guest bloggers and offer yet another point-of-view on “making it” in Chicago. I’d also love to highlight even more innovative designs and designers. Keeping up with blogging with my schedule these days has been a challenge! Once I settle into work, I will have more time to really focus on the future of The Bowtie Memoirs. So, stay tuned!
What are your favorite blogs?
Of course I love Barbara’s blog and Style Admirer! I am also a lover of strong fashion images, and as cliché as it may sound…Yes, I love The Sartorialist! One of my favorite blogs is written by my friends Matt Fox and Enrique Crame III, and it’s called the Fine and Dandy Shop blog. Once you go to this blog, you’ll know why I love it so much! In the true spirit of my love for Chicago, I try to stick to local blogs when I do have the chance to browse. One of my Chicago favorites is The Midwasteland. I also enjoy Second City Style, The Coveted, and Darkroom Demons for some very cool photography.
What is your favorite Chicago boutique?
I have to admit: I’m a huge thrifter. I love to pass a few hours at Unique Thrift Store, Vintage Underground, Knee Deep Vintage, and The Brown Elephant. As for Chicago boutiques, I love The Goorin Bros. Hat Shop and Bonnie and Clyde’s. I also find some great things at Zara on Michigan Avenue. They have the best fits for tall, slim men! DNA2050 in The 900 Shops has the best denim in the city!
Who are your favorite designers, both international and local?
Internationally, I love Alexander McQueen and John Galliano. They both inspired me to get into fashion in the first place. McQueen had such an eclectic eye for menswear. Galliano, to me, is the king of the runway show. I remember watching his F/W 2007 show on YouTube and literally not being able to breathe. Locally, I love and respect the Chicago designers that I have gotten to know personally, such as my friend Christina Fan of C/FAN and Miriam Cecilia Carlson of M.C.C. I also enjoy the menswear by Donaldo Smith of Killian Gui, Jonnie Rettele of Nonnie Threads, and my good friend Maureen Refvem’s stunning pieces.
Do you have a tip to other bloggers looking to create their own online identity?
I would say to always know the intention of your blog. Do you want to make money? Do you want to fill a niche? Do you want to share a personal journey? Knowing the reason you are blogging will guide you in the right direction and act as an outline for your content. I would also say to do your best to stand out. With so many blogs on the internet, it is important to have a brand or logo or blog title that makes you different from every other blog. Finally: just have fun with it, share your passion and follow your dreams even if everyone around you thinks you’re crazy. After all, we all hold the power to be great!
Written and produced by Meghan Turner
Tags: Alexander McQueen, Barbara Glass, Bonnie and Clyde's, C/FAN, Chicago Bloggers, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Christina Fan, Columbia College, DNA2050, Donaldo Smith, Illinois Institute of Art, John Galliano, Jonnie Rettele, Killian Gui, Knee Deep Vintage, M.C.C., Maureen Refvem, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, Nonnie Threads, Ryan Beshel, Susanna Negovan, The 900 Shops, The Bowtie Memoirs, The Brown Elephant, The Goorin Bros. Hat Shop, Unique Thrift Store, Vintage Underground, Zara
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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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Tomorrow: Chicago Fashion Incubator Launch Event
Monday, March 15th, 2010
As you know, we’re devoted to our fair city’s fashion community—to its growth, its talent and its profitability. That said, we adore those who share this mission, and the Chicago Fashion Incubator (CFI) is one of those institutions. Every year, CFI chooses six local designers, or “Designers in Residence,” who learn the economics, marketing and merchandising of fashion from industry experts. During a reception and fundraiser tomorrow evening at the 900 Shops on Michigan Avenue, CFI will formally announce the 2010 crew, which includes Christina Fan, Donaldo Smith, Jonnie Rettele, Leah Fagan, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, and Stephanie Kuhr. Then, from Thursday, March 18 to Saturday, April 18, the 900 Shops will host a pop-up store devoted to CFI’s three-years of designer education. The 2010 designers, as well as CFI alum, will be participating and offering their goods to shoppers though a series of events and trunk shows. Here’s the month’s schedule:
MARCH
Tuesday, the 16th, 6 to 8pm: “Launch” Event Reception and Fundraiser. Tickets are $25.
Thursday, the 18th, 6 to 10pm: Furio Fall/Winter 2010 Collection Launch
Saturday, the 20th, 12 to 6pm: Cynthia Ryba Trunk Show
Saturday, the 20th, 12 to 8pm: 2010 New Designer Trunk Show
Sunday, the 21st, 12 to 2 pm: Afternoon Tea and Dresses Showcasing Jess Audey’s Fall 2010 Collection
Friday, the 26th, 8 to 11pm: Anna Hovet Fall 2010 Fashion Show
Saturday, the 27th, 10am to 7pm: Zamrie Spring 2010 Trunk Show
Every Friday: get fitted for a custom Kate Boggiano shirt
APRIL
Saturday, the 3rd, 12 to 6pm: Nora del Busto Trunk Show and Champagne Reception
Thursday, the 8th, 7 to 10pm: Kristin Hassan Summer 2010 Show and Event
Friday, the 9th, 12 to 6pm: Yana Collection Fall 2010 Trunk Show
Saturday, the 10th, 11am to 4pm: Evil Kitty Trunk Show
Thursday, the 15th, 12 to 8:30pm: Agga B Trunk Show
Saturday, the 17th, 10am to 7pm: Anna Hovet Trunk Show
Every Friday: get fitted for a custom Kate Boggiano shirt
*Store hours: The retail store will be open 10am to 7pm Thursday through Saturday and 12 to 6pm on Sundays.
By Meghan Turner
Tags: 900 Shops, Agga B., Anna Hovet, CFI, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Christina Fan, Cynthia Ryba, Donaldo Smith, Evil Kitty, Jess Audey, Jonnie Rettele, Kate Boggiano, Kristin Hassan, Leah Fagan, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, Nora del Busto, Stephanie Kuhr, Yana Collection
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C/FAN’s Fall 2010 Preview
Wednesday, February 17th, 2010
New York Fashion Week kicked off last Thursday, and here in Chicago, we got a show of our own. That same evening, local designer Christina Fan debuted her fall 2010 collection to a crowd of Gen Art members, fashion insiders, and media at the Dubhe Carreño Gallery.
The artsy West Loop setting created a stark canvas on which C/FAN’s designs were presented in an edgy-meets-sultry fashion installation. Christina’s guests crammed themselves in the narrow gallery, where wine flowed, hors d’oeuvres were devoured, and a local DJ created a hip audio backdrop. Toward the rear of the gallery, a light installation of white umbrellas illuminated the presentation area and sculptures by Anne Drew Potter acted as a backdrop. Models soon appeared in sets of three, and one-by-one they walked the teeny, tiny “runway.” What was originally meant to be a typical installation turned into a pose-hold-walk routine that offered views to only those standing in the front couple rows.
If you were as lucky as I to see Christina’s designs, you were treated to a show of luxe fabrics and an earthy palette ideal for fall. The overall theme seemed to be sharp, daring cuts, including exposed midriffs, plunging necklines, asymmetrical hems, and batwing sleeves. Texture was also a key element as satiny silks, coarse goat and lamb furs, and liquidy velvets made their in and out of the installation. As Christina is known to do, the fall 2010 collection is loaded with wearable pieces that keep Chicago’s fashion sensibilities in mind, while also appealing to fearless trendsetters. “My inspiration is a woman who is carefree while still being sensual and soft,” says Christina. “She’s someone who isn’t afraid to experiment.”
This was my second encounter with C/FAN – the first was at Gen Art’s Fresh Faces last October. The fall collection maintains the same aesthetic I enjoyed then, but Christina brought the design and craftsmanship up a notch and presented some quality designs I look forward to seeing on the backs of stylish Chicagoans.
Christina Fan (center) with her models
By Meghan Turner
Photography by Tim Musho of Fig Media
Tags: Anne Drew Potter, C/FAN, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Runway, Christina Fan, Dubhe Carreno Gallery, Fall 2010, Gen Art
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C/FANs Fall 2010 Fashion Preview
Monday, February 8th, 2010
C/FAN’s Spring 2010 collection
Fashion and art will converge this Thursday evening at C/FAN’s Fall 2010 Fashion Preview. The Chicago designer and Gen Art Fresh Faces alum Christina Fan, known for her luxurious and fashion-forward take on everyday basics, will debut her collection at the Dubhe Carreno Gallery (118 N Peoria Street) in the form of a fashion installation. While models present C/FAN designs—featuring an array of gray tones on silks, wools and velvets—sculptures by renowned artist Anne Drew Potter will be on display, creating a night of artistic expression. The evening begins at 7pm, and the fashion installation starts at 8pm. Tickets include complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
Get tickets here.
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of C/FAN
Tags: Anne Drew Potter, C/FAN, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Christina Fan, Dubhe Carreno Gallery, Gen Art Fresh Faces
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