Austin Fashion Report

Austin Fashion Report is all about our favorite #ATX Fashion and beyond the norm! We hope to inspire you stylish babes. XoXo

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola 

Help Keep the Fathers Fashionable!

If you’re looking to get your dad or newly father status hubby another pair of socks, you might as well get him some stylish Happy Socks, along with some additional essentials, to stay classy. 

Check out this gift guide, for all of you last-minute Dad Day shoppers!

Visit Co-Star on South Congress, bring your eco-friendly reusable bag and grab these items off the ultimate gift checklist:

Help keep the men in your life looking like they dressed themselves stylish, without the help from mom. 

Ask Co-Star’s stylists to help get dad out of his dilapidated wardrobe and amp it up a notch. It’s time to get spoiled, dads!

If the man in your life needs help styling his pompadour or man bun, select the “Strongest Water Based Pomade in America”: Imperial. 

Treat him to superior men’s skin care straight from Miami’s downtown financial district, Brickell. Coming from the land of luxury and the fountain of youth, keep your man looking groomed with the highest quality natural and organic ingredients. 

Who wouldn’t want to get dangerously close to a freshly shaved face, without irritation or ingrown hairs? Get your man on the Brickell Shaving routine and he’ll be smoother than a baby’s bottom.

Dads need to feel cool, too. Select a pair (or two) of Shwood sunglasses, so he can pretend he’s Magic Mike or James Bond. Either way, we hope this Portland-based, handcrafted wooden eyeware company will help you fall in love all over again. 

What they dig about these shades:

the craftsmanship

the materials used

light, comfortable wear

The watch is a timeless piece every dad should accessorize with every outfit. (Besides, dads need a way to make sure you’re making it in on time for curfew-- or if his favorite football game is about to come on TV.) Set off his new wardrobe from Co-Star with a Daniel Wellington watch. 

Why it rocks: 

It works perfectly with every lifestyle

It’s stylish and casual

If you’re picking up the wardrobe, accessories and grooming kits, you need to finish up his ultimate gift set with Happy Socks. 

Keep his looks creating fun, quietly spicy statements.

Let us know which items you picked up at Co-Star!

(Photo credit: Courtesy of Co-Star)

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

Keep it Weird and Stay Batty, Austin!

If you’re into Austin’s promise to “keep it weird”, congratulations! You’re in good company— and what better way to celebrate this city’s charm with The Austin BatBox! The Austin BatBox is a premium monthly subscription coming straight from the heart and soul of founder Amber Golightly (pictured above), who is a proud 4th generation Austinite. (I’d like to proclaim her as the real deal heir to Austin royalty, especially with roots deep in the heartland!) All items are made in the U.S.A and proudly rock the ATX positive vibes! Let’s give some praise for supporting business right here at home in the U.S.A.

Amber is a great Texan! This Austin entrepreneur empowers local artists, musicians and businesses. Allowing these local entrepreneurs the opportunity to join The Austin BatBox, they can use it as a platform to get themselves out there. Amber’s go-getting spirit and courage to stay true to what the BatBox means to her proves her passion helps to create each BatBox with inspiration and a lot of love.

Believing in Austin’s big entrepreneurial spirit and that the creative energy is always thriving, I couldn’t agree more, Amber! There’s so much opportunity here to grow and I think it is cool how Amber gives all of the subscribers the ability to experience what some take for granted in our lovely town.

With one year under Amber’s belt, The Austin BatBox is surely on the rise and soon to be at your doorstep! It’s quite an accomplishment to bring an idea from the mind and manifest it into existence. Amber’s BatBox is the gift that keeps on giving, and I’d like to congratulate her and the BatBox team for a very successful first year, since the soft launch last year in 2014!

I love subscription services, but this one is extra special! If you love to receive profoundly interesting and exciting items every month, I need you to head over to The Austin BatBox and subscribe now!

Fashionistas, you’ll absolutely love the fashion jewelry pieces to add glitz, glam and batty splendor to your outfit of the day. (And to add more sass to your #ootd, gloss those nails with the vegan Black Dahlia Lacquer in shades like “Woke up on 6th Street”!) When you’re brunching at Kerbey Lane Cafe, you can also whip out the hipster dice. Fashionistas that blog do not like the idea of labeling one’s self as a hipster, but let’s face it, ladies: we love mocha lattes, organic food and secondhand clothing stores. Sigh. (Got ‘em!) Roll the die, and “I guess. Whatever.” (See the game rules for more friendly and witty, obscure ways to play the game.) 

Intrigued?

To give you an idea of the kinds of goodies you can expect to find when you unbox your BatBox, here is a list of locals to learn and love:

Black Dahlia Lacquer in the shade/color “Woke up on 6th Street”

A swag! envelope filled with coupons and other goodies

Mooncat Designs (Jewelry and Visual Art)

Hipster Dice

VitaWellness Living Better Spritzer 

Art from Spratx

Handmade mini wallet by AnneMarie

Stickers from local faves like Austin Rocks, Strait Music Company, Toy Joy, etc.

Music from artists like The Blue Bonnets

Pancake Mix from Kerbey Lane Cafe

“i love you so much” koozie

A Munchkin Bookmark

With your $30 premium monthly subscription, The Austin BatBox is unique and always seeks out the city’s latest and greatest in the community, so you feel like you’re right here in the center of keeping it weird. Amber strives to set The Austin BatBox aside from the rest with the best items to allow subscribers to explore and relax to the sights, sounds and tastes of Austin. With each box customized down to the smallest of details, such as monthly tissue paper themes and customized jewelry that is hand-picked, it gives fashionistas the local edge — and more.

Handcrafted with 4-5 items from local artists, musicians and businesses, The Austin BatBox allows different types of people to indulge in the treasures of this great city. From people like Austinites who live here, those who have moved away and even folks who have never traveled out this way, be prepared to fall in love with each month’s theme and swag! envelopes filled with goodies! 

Those who can enjoy trying new things and love the thrill of unboxing an adventure can appreciate the joy inside each BatBox. With the recent reveal for June’s theme, the “Weird Box”, one of my favorite local designers, Mooncat Designs, has a special item inside. (Here’s one of a few hints you’ll find online for this month’s box: tiger’s eye.) Let the magic find you and bejewel you with some fashion equilibrium.

Support your local artists, businesses and entrepreneurs! It’s people like you, fashionistas, who help make it possible for artists, businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive. 

Are you ready to get batty, fashionistas? I’m inviting you to try it out and see what ATX lovelies you find the most intriguing. If you subscribe, let me know what you think when you receive your first BatBox! 

With a few big things in the works, you won’t regret subscribing to one of the world’s best premium monthly subscription box: The Austin BatBox! I'd like to give a special thanks for this complimentary BatBox, courtesy of Amber :)

P.S. Be on the look out for the fashion version of the BatBox! :)

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

I love deal$, deal$, deal$ at Uptown Cheapskate - Austin!

Are you over those lightly worn shoes, outfits and accessories? Visit Uptown Cheapskate at the Austin store location and join the fashion exchange. With favorite looks from all eras that are available in all sizes, UC allows fashionistas to discover and select new looks from the racks to their wardrobe. 

The beauty of UC is perusing the racks with stylish items, that are easy to find with visibly large size organizers. Time is money, and UC helps you get the best of the best in your size real quick. How does it work?

Buying Back Items

Shoppers can either shop or sell back items. If shoppers choose to sell back items, there is a cash or store credit option. I personally love the store credit option, since you get back 25% more credit than getting cash back. (And why would you only come to sell items? The shopping selection is top-notch with brands like Jeffrey Campbell, Free People and Kendra Scott to name a few!) I sold some shoes and old Levi’s. I left with two cute black sunnies and a fun, floral black print skirt to enjoy Austin’s heat this summer. I was smitten!

Note: UC’s buying hours are until 2 hours before closing time. If buying takes longer due to heavy merchandise selection, it may close earlier.

You can also pre-approve the buy and drop it off, and wait for UC to call you the next day. Pretty easy, right?

Call ahead of time for more info: [phone]

Are you an Uptown Insider?

Uptown Cheapskate’s Uptown Insider Rewards Program card allows you to receive discounts and rewards. During your birthday month, you’ll receive 15% off. For every $10 you spend or sell, earn one stamp. A full stamped card will earn you $15 off or 20% off your next purchase. (Five down, so much more to go…)

Shop the Racks!

If you’re big on shopping for deals, get your bags and cash ready. 

BABE ALERT: Get ready! This week, UC’s first “Sticker Sale” will have hundreds of markdown items at $1-$5. I hope your wallet is ready, because they’re set to rock your world.

Soon, UC is announcing their private collection sale of great men’s wear, so huge that they can’t put it all on the floor at once!

For right now and continuing deals, UC has all men’s new merchandise (shirts, slacks, shorts, shoes, socks, etc.) at Buy One, Get One 50% off. 

Looking to stay fit and healthy? UC has women’s new athletic wear BOGO 50% off.

Keep it simple and pick up a pair of previously reduced women’s jeans, with an additional 15% off the lowest marked price.

Let’s not forget: the Summer Send-Off over Memorial Day Weekend will have a bunch of stuff on sale. (OMG!)

The Semi-Annual sale in June, which is their biggest sale of the year is also coming up. Are you set to shop in a sustainable way?

Be sure to follow Uptown Cheapsake Austin on Facebook & via e-mail, for all of the latest sales information. 

Start your Uptown Cheapskate experience now, and lock this into your GPS:

3005 South Lamar Blvd. Suite 110-A Austin, TX 78704

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

Austin Passbook: Create New Memories with Food and Fun, Off-Duty Fashionistas!

A little 2-for-1 never hurt nobody! Austin Passbook allows original Austinites and new arrivals alike to get social, discover new food and activity hang spots, while rediscovering your favorites around town, too. (If you’re new to town like me, it helps cut a lot of the Yelp searches and friend suggestions down to a trusted, handy passport-like guide around town.) Opening yourself to new opportunities can be life-changing. 

Speaking of life-changing, the Austin Passbook makes it easier to convince that penny-pinching, pain in the you-know-what friend of yours to finally try new activities and food with you. (We all know that one friend! And if you don’t, then it is you, heh.) With activities like City Surf, Blue Starlite Urban Drive-In and PubCrawler, among many others, you can make the decision to make peace with stubbornness and say hello to fun! Now, your adventure time has kicked it up a notch. 

Want to indulge with Little Lucy’s bag of mini-donuts? Or do you need to start that Juice Austin addiction? Either way, you can’t go wrong. I’m excited to check out all the “to die for” food spots like Bananarchy, Burro Cheese Kitchen and Churro Co— but that’s barely scraping the surface. (There’s a good balance of activities and food, so don’t worry about that waistband expanding too far with all of that cardio!) When you’re not designing, writing, rocking the runway or styling for photo shoots, relax with Austin-favorites. Where will you start exploring with your Austin Passbook?

This is my first passbook, so I can’t wait to get my trek on to each spot. As a new mama, I like to get out and about to new places with my husband and little guy.

I can’t wait to create new memories with my Austin Passbook!

Preorder before June 1 and save some dough. Prices go up soon, and you know you’re going to want to join in on the fun.

Want to eat, play and be social, too? 

Head over to www.austinpassbook.com and get yours today!

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

Ringleader, I am Very Busy and Florabunda; Oh, my! 

If you love bright colors, inspirational quotes and little dainty accessories to match every personality, then ban.do can change your life. One of my current favorites from ban.do takes boss babes like me to organized unicorn bliss status. (Did I mention the kittens, champagne and thrill of girly pretty stickers in their absolutely must-have agendas?)

Side note: the glittery hair accessories are the cutest and most versatile with safety pin enclosures,too. Take the hair look and dress up an outfit with its pinning functionality. A 2-for-1 cannot be argued, ladies. This is a small victory with a lot of “wow” factor.

After last year’s pandemonium, when all of the light blue “I AM VERY BUSY” agendas sold out almost immediately, this year, ban.do made our lives easier and printed more agendas. (YES!) There are more options, if you’re looking to be the ringleader or get florabunda. Pre-order yours, before these agendas are all gone.

These coveted agendas not only help you get your life together, but these little organizers indulge your inner child you thought got left behind in the 90s. Doodles or client meetings can fill it up, but it’s what you make of it. (Or mix it up with a little bit of both!)

Let’s admit it: mom was right to jot everything from pen to paper! When we write, we tend to remember things better than the recall we have when 100% digital. To avoid the stupid human with a smart phone stereotype, this agenda series is the best. Creating fun ways to organize and get things done is what it is all about here. While taking time to relax is important, it is also crucial to be time effective when you need to get down to business. (No one likes a scatter brain!)

Not only will your agenda BFF keep you entertained with its fun stickers and witty quotes, it reminds you to love yourself and stay empowered. This agenda book of positive affirmations is perfect for any strong woman to battle the woes of working, while staying cheerful in a world of agenda suicide. Fear not! This is the antithesis to your typical bound calendar— it is your glossy, satin and sassy novelty to keep you living in the now, in a more fulfilling life offline.

Keep it light and fun, fashionistas. With all of your work, fitness, brunching and whatever else you might like to enjoy, make sure to pick up one of these fab finds, before they’re sold out. (Seriously, that case of #FOMO is dangerous!)

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

#JEWELYOURSELF Now Until 6 pm at the RIFLE + RADFORD Pop-up Shop

After much anticipation, RIFLE + RADFORD’s Pop-Up Shop for the new 2015 Intrinsic Native Collection is here at the Hotel Saint Cecilia lounge. 

RIFLE + RADFORD’s owner and designer, Melanie RR Edwards (pictured in the first photo), welcomed guests with jewels and a warm smile. Melanie consulted with shoppers about style and gemstone selection. This is one designer who knows how to analyze a fashionista and pair her up with just the right jewels, for every occasion and personality. 

It’s exciting to speak with the designer behind the craft. Usually we as consumers purchase an item and never get to meet the designer, so this was something truly special. (If you’re reading this before the pop-up shop ends, get over there and do yourself a favor: #jewelyourself!)

Please feel free to enjoy more photos of the event here. 

If you aren’t able to head over to the pop-up shop, no worries! Just visit my previous post here, and be sure to add some of these treasures to your wardrobe. Every mother loves jewelry, so if you also haven’t purchased mom a gift, now is the time to shine. ;)

P.S. Thank you RIFLE + RADFORD for the gorgeous gemstone earring studs. I can’t wait to show them off!

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

Get your First Thursday Block Party on at Maya Star, Fashionistas!

Every month on the first Thursday, stores throw a block party called “First Thursday”, along South Congress Avenue from Barton Springs Road to Elizabeth Street. It is for all ages, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Most shops that usually close early will stay open until 10 p.m. or later! It’s always fashion season in Austin, so expect special sales, free drinks and other exclusive offers. You never know what you will find when perusing SoCo!

Shop the newest arrivals for Spring and Summer at shops like Maya Star and Co-Star! 

Tomorrow night, I’ll be raiding the unique jewelry and distinctive clothing collections at Maya Star, for some new season hits. (If you’re going to upgrade your closet, put Maya Star on your list. It’s one of the top boutiques in Austin!)

If you have a passion for craftsmanship and quality, bring your wallet and nose for fashion over to South Congress Avenue. With so many shops for every type of fashionista, there’s no way to go wrong. 

Maya Star owner, Maya Krauss, travels all over the world to find unique artists and collections to showcase. 

Here are some of the designers to drool over in the shop, but not limited to: 

Catherine Weitzman

Misha of NY

Dolce Vita

Nixon

Virgins Saints & Angels

Maya Star has a selection to match every style and budget!

Will we see you at Maya Star and Co-Star? 

See you there!

If you go:

Maya Star 1508 South Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

7 p.m. - 10 p.m.

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola 

| Shop Local and Make Mama Proud: Mother’s Day Gift Guide |

Mother’s Day is this Sunday May 10. (I hope you bought your mother a gift!)

 However, if you’re reading this and cringing a bit because you may have forgot or were too busy, have no fear! This gift guide is ready to help you put some thought into the perfect gift for every type of mom.

It’s National Small Business Week from May 4-8, so shop local and support Austin’s entrepreneurs at Love Ding, Rifle + Radford and The Distillery. (Mom will be proud and wowed, too!)

Here’s our guide to dressing mom up and down in local fab splendor:

“Furnish. Decorate. Vintage.” If your mama is the type to entertain with the most noteworthy hospitality, help mom warm up her home with these select picks from Love Ding (withlovefromding.com).

Set mom’s table with a set of 4 Caroline Z Hurley linen napkins ($53). Each napkin is individually block printed with non-toxic acrylic ink, so it’s also eco-friendly.

Create an ambience of peace and serenity with these Rudi Lanterns ($15 each), which are perfect for indoor and outdoor use.

If mom needs to add some green in her space, Score + Solder handmade terrariums ($110-250), which each terrarium is unique, add vim and vigor.

“Jewel yourself.”

RIFLE + RADFORD owner and designer, Melanie Edwards, handpicked her one-of-a-kind Rhett Marquis Single Drop earrings , which are made with semi-precious marquis pink tangerine druzy. These gorgeous earrings are now on sale. (What perfect timing, too! See my previous post on Melanie’s upcoming event this Thursday May 7 here.)

Not only can you spoil mom with these earrings for $100, but you can also add a pop of color and purchase Melanie’s Mother’s Day necklace pick: the Harper Five Stone Slab ($255).

“Unique and Authentic.”

The Distillery provides an alternative to the world of mass-production hum drum. If mom has a knack for losing her keys in her big, black purse, show mom the light with the unique and authentic tooled leather handbags: the Tooled Leather Tote - $95; and the Tooled Leather Satchel- $85.

Repeat: Mother’s Day is in FOUR days. 

Remember to get her the best gift ever. 

After all, she created the awesome little human that turned out to be you!

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

| Jewel Yourself in Austin’s Finest |

Austin native Melanie RR Edwards, RIFLE + RADFORD’s Owner and Creative Director, is inviting you to celebrate, preview and shop the newly launched 2015 Summer Jewelry Collection: Intrinsic Native on May 7 at the Hotel Saint Cecilia from noon to 6pm.

Melanie’s Southwest-inspired design studio exudes brilliance and elegance, which beautifully reflects her apprenticeships with Oscar de la Renta and Donna Karan. Melanie’s sophisticated and relaxed style allows women to feel gorgeous and unique with a southwestern flair.

It’s almost ethereal when you witness these colorful and high quality jewels. With each unique stone, there is a one-of-a-kind novelty that RIFLE + RADFORD exclusively selects and handcrafts for a special fashionista like you!

RIFLE + RADFORD's natural array of stones helps the designs mesh cultures and colors, as well as Melanie’s love for the great outdoors. Druzy labradorite, jasper, ruby, citrine, turquoise, amethyst and other precious and semi-precious gemstones adorn these timeless pieces— and I’d love to “celebrate and jewel” myself in Austin’s treasure: RIFLE + RADFORD.

It’s a pop-up shop to not miss! If you haven’t already done so, be sure to RSVP here: [email protected].

Melanie will be on site, which is extra special! I can’t wait for a personal one-on-one style consultation and Q&A. It’s great to meet the designer behind the craft and understand the love and care put into each necklace, earring and ring. Be sure to “jewel yourself” and shop a collection you won’t want to miss out on adding to your wardrobe.

We hope to see you there!

P.S. Word on the street is the first 15 guests will receive an exclusive gift. Expect to see me there super early! I’m curious to see what it’s all about here.

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

Derby Day 2015: Run for the Roses

Benefitting the Ride on Center for Kids, Austin Influential Group brought us a Derby Day we would never forget! At Ten Oak Bourbon House + Kitchen, Derby Day 2015: Run for the Roses took us back in time. With swanky tunes and croons from live band the Robert Kraft Trio and a retro cigar lounge, it felt like wining and dining with the Rat Pack!

The Ross Bennett Collection, Rare Trends Boutique, The Hat Box and Kendra Scott Jewelry put on a special runway show of bespoke suits and wearable art. With the ladies and gentlemen dressed to the nines, it wouldn’t be a true Derby Day without watching the races. While watching the races, the Bloody Mary Bar and The Cupcake Bar satisfied the tastebuds! (I’m partial to my sweets, so I’ll be shameless when I say I had a few custom cupcakes.)

Attendees placed bets on the horses, but there could only be one winner. Congratulations to American Pharaoh on the Kentucky Derby win!

Did you pick the winning horse? Tell us in the comments.

Click here for more photos.

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

Rock it like a Redhead 2015

The Rock it like a Redhead Tour premiere in Austin rocked our ginger locks off!

Sisters and natural-born redheads Adrienne and Stephanie Vendetti co-founded How to be a Redhead for redheads by redheads. In the age of inclusion, it’s about time that redheads had their own safe space to meet up with other redheads to share fashion and beauty tips.  

Stepping on the scene at Palm Door on Sabine, the red carpet welcome with cameras flashing and fun photo props dazzled guests as they entered the realm of gingers. And with a chance to get glam in front of the official How to be a Redhead backdrop, all the redheaded beauties showed off how they loved to dress to impress.

Sponsored ‘redhead friendly’ beauty and fashion bars from Rae Cosmetics, Kenra Professional, Olive + M and Billion Dollar Brows, to name a few, pampered guests like A-list celebrities. While enjoying a night of mini-manicures and chatting away about the sisterhood of redheads, complimentary catering from The Ginger Armadillo filled our tummies with delicious bites to eat. (Can you believe TGA’s founder is a redhead, too?)

Complimentary cocktails and soft drinks fit for all palettes, sponsors like Big Red and DRY soda helped created funky fresh cocktails like the Moscow Mule and the Big Red Float. I loved the crisp flavors from the food and drinks! We were ready for the show to begin!

Fun fact of the night: almost every redhead I spoke with had come alone. When you’re a redhead, chances are, you’re the only one in your circle of friends. Let’s not be mistaken though: we all left with new redheaded friends and stories about how there were so many redheads in one room. (I bet I won’t see another redhead for a while, since attendees had flown in from all over the country.)

Everyone felt the excitement building when the Irish Dance Center hit the stage. I felt a smile over my face, knowing I wasn’t the only one with an urge to get up and dance. It’s in our blood. (If you ever want to get a party started, just invite your redheaded best friend. With musical encouragement, a group of redheads stormed the stage for some dance therapy. Personally, I blame Iggy Izalea and Pitbull for the dancing frenzy, hehe.)

With looks from Kohl’s, Coolibar and Blue Lux, a local Austin brand, the showcase inspired new redhead friendly outfits for day to night. Who doesn’t love a runway show? I feel like runway season is year-round, especially in Austin— and it is no surprise to leave wanting to shop the entire show. (Those lovely Kendra Scott jewels have my eyes wandering!)

Redhead rockstar, Shayne Leighton, sang her heart out and made her debut performance at the kickoff! It’s great to see fellow South Florida leading ladies taking the world by storm.

After a fun-filled night of beauty and fashion, every attendee left with at least $300+ in beauty products. I already started using the Pureology products on my hair, and I am feeling my ravenous red enlightened with these vegan hair products— yes! I’m so excited to share with you the goodie bag goodies :) (Stay tuned for the beauty bag product review post!)

Click here for more photos. 

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

Keep Stylin’, Austin Fashion Week!

Whether you’re living with your wardrobe in the car between shows or running between hair and makeup appointments, one thing is certain: it’s runway season! Fashion X Austin’s Austin Fashion Week kicked off the 7th year running at South Congress Ave’s favorite, Speakeasy.

Mashup Teams showcased their canvases throughout Speakeasy and team members mingled with designers and locals alike. Complete with vintage hair and makeup presentations, as well as a fun photo op, the night only gave a sneak peek of what to expect this year.

This is my first Austin Fashion Week experience, so I had to go all out! (And who wouldn’t want to explore all of the options, when it is alive and kicking?!) Brunch at Searsucker served up a delectable breakfast of local designers and boutiques to boot with its nom-nom-worthy menu!

Sitting at The Rise School of Austin table, the ladies brightened my day full of vibrance and personality. The benefit brunch not only warmed the heart, but it also filled the fashion soul. With presenting collections from UAL, Noonday Collection, Rare Trends, Elie Tahari and Sakes Fifth Ave Off 5th, I felt like screaming, “Just stop and take all of my money!” 

If the benefit and runway show weren’t enough, knowing that the price of admission also helps support a sustainable effort behind Noonday Collection— and that is a beautiful thing to give someone the opportunity to build commerce in growing economies around the world— bravo!

AFW’s Soirées around town shook up the Monday/Tuesday woes of the work week, and it gave fashion lovers the chance to feel posh and pampered. Rare Trends’ Cinema Soirée smoldered with true “Arctic Fury” and the collection felt warm. Paola Ortiz Moore and Marina Ortiz Silver of Rare Trends spoke before their visual presentation, with an empowering message that set the tone for fashion week: “Women should not just wear clothes; they should wear art. After all, we are works of art.”  

Fashion is about empowerment and inspiration, but ultimately, expression. During AFW’s Discover runway show, the world’s biggest emerging designers flooded the runway with stunning collections. With pre and post-show browsing during all of the runway shows, the Gallery features jewelry, accessories and other lines. (After all, you’re going to want to bring home your runway favorites!)

 Tinsley Radix, Loren Franco, Robb & Lulu, Darlene Araiza, Smith II, Stephen Goudeau, K. Frame, Caycee Black, Abi Ferrin and Mysterious by NPN surprised us with iconic and luxe one-of-a-kind pieces of art with radiance and femininity.  If your jaw wasn’t dropping and your eyes weren’t gawking, your modesty must’ve had you stunned and tongue-tied.

Let’s be honest: you know you had a fan girl/fan boy moment, when AFW presented the return of Lifetime’s hit television series Project Runway’s eight prominent designers to the runway show, Stars. Designers Gunnar Deatherage, Michelle Lesniak, Amanda Valentine, Jeffrey Sebelia, Melissa Fleis, Anthony Ryan Auld, Daniel Esquivel and Korto Momolu brought elegance with day wear to bridal. 

Watching the hard work of these designers come to life and walk down the runway felt truly special to be part of in the same room. (Oh, the feels!) Creativity is a contagious little bugger that’s full of happiness and joy.

With the Finale upon us, Austin’s favorite designers Samantha Plasencia, Nine Muses, Ross Bennett, Gail Chovan, Sally Daneshjou, Rare Trends, This is Sloane and Larue Designs will hit the runway with eye-catching collections. 

With the top 5 finalists for  Critics’ Choice and People’s Choice Mashup Competition, Mash Ups will manifest from digital voting to a runway format. Who will have the ultimate bragging rights? 

We’ll see you tonight at the Austin Music Hall at the sold out event. The doors open at 6 pm and the runway show begins at 8 pm. If you can get through all of the Finale’s excitement, all Finale ticket holders are invited to the Official Austin Fashion Week Finale After Party at The Madison.

*After the Finale*

Highlights:

- The runway channeled us with charming men in the Ross Bennett Collection and that RBxArmy surely knows how to sweep us off of our feet! (Yowza!) 

- Rare Trends presented the short film from their Cinema Soirée: Arctic Fury. (YES!!! This was everything! I cannot wait to storm the shop for these gorgeous little numbers!)

- Samantha Plasencia’s cool girl vibes make me want to shop it all and enhance my closet.

-This is Sloane totally stole my heart. Her personality shines through her runway show, and I cannot wait to see more!

- “Capsule” featured 10 designers, which offered AFW attendees a 3-piece preview of upcoming collections. This was not a runway show to miss! 

- Nine Muses declared crisp and chic runway warfare and I was feeling it. If you haven’t heard, now you know: Dallas is bringing it to us!

- LaRue Designs edged us with tribal finesse! (I’m craving fringe…)

- Sally Daneshjou Designs brought us to an elegant spot of the night, with beautiful and elegant evening gowns for all types of women of leisure. 

- The Mash Up Teams materialized from canvas to the runway–finally, at the Finale ;) Congratulations to everyone for participating!

      Final Winners:

          - People’s Choice: Synergy

          - Critic’s Choice: Mysterious

- Gail Chovan closed up the night with artsy flair and models toting Finell bags. (By this point in the night, if I could’ve shopped the runway Moda Operandi-style, I would’ve been beyond broke. This is a good thing. That means the designers, stylists and models did their job right!)

Check out AFW Finale shots here.

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

FAB-U-Lunch Celebrates Empowerment and Philanthropy

Nonprofit Business Investment Growth, Inc. (BiG) teamed up with Project Runway designer Daniel Esquivel, Ross Bennett, Linda Asaf, Fashionably Austin, The Aveda Institute, Dress for Success and additional designers, for a luncheon celebrating empowerment and women entrepreneurship.

Celebrating empowerment through fashion, arts, beauty and women entrepreneurs with fashion industry insiders and business experts showcased the importance of supporting the local economy and well-being of all citizens, especially women. 

FAB-U-Lunch offered live music from Hanna LaShay, a silent auction and special guest speakers. Finding ways to create more jobs and bring more money into the local economy paints a diverse landscape, where entrepreneurs can achieve the American dream.

Austin is the nation’s top city for business startups. In 2014, BiG raised $1 million to support and help increase the number of women-owned businesses in Central Texas. BiG trained 20 individuals this summer during a 5-week program called “FAB University”, where local entrepreneurs and industry experts focused on leadership, legal basics, marketing strategies, e-commerce and beyond what one would find in an online search for how to start a business. 

With a focus on women empowerment in the local economy, BiG and WOW1000 teamed up with the Austin Police Department, as well as other nonprofits that give women in distress relief, to shed light on human trafficking and domestic violence. 

Executive Director of BiG, Stacy Rhone, believes it is a “much needed fund” to “liberate and provide a new alternative for women.” 

Between the fashion runway shows from local designers, BiG’s success stories Kitara Byerly and Heather Frierson survived oppressive circumstances and were able to create businesses with the help of BiG. 

The Austin Police Department and BiG continue efforts to provide long-term training and financial literacy, so that these women can build a strong foundation for their businesses.

On top of the 25% of WOW1000’s funds that are allotted solely for the liberation and support of women surviving these circumstances, all of the proceeds from Fab-U-Lunch will go towards the WOW1000’s fund and efforts. 

Founder and Owner of Austin Fashion Week, Matt Swinney, gave an inspirational Keynote speech about his early years as an entrepreneur and how it led to the creation of Austin Fashion Week. Swinney advised fellow entrepreneurs to avoid acting on fear and instead, let it become motivation.

Feeling the creative juices flowing in the crowd, the crowd’s focus hung on his every word, before Fab-U-Lunch presented the silent auction winners.

The fashion show entertained the fashion industry leaders and business entrepreneurs through fashion, arts, and beauty, but the philanthropy and business showcase provided everyone with the notion that anything is possible through personal triumph, community engagement and empowerment. 

For more photo coverage, click here. 

[austinfashionreport]

By Natalie Merola

Fashion connoisseurs flocked to Austin’s historic Fifth Street at the Fair Market, for the 11th Annual Tribeza Fashion Show on Sep. 24.

Tribeza Style Week, sponsored by Lexus, curated a sultry, modern soul vibe that resonated to the heart of Austin and its style. 

Before the fashion hit the runway, VIP lounges outside allowed guests to mix delectable eats from Chinatown, Barlata, Fork & Vine and Winebelly, alongside Cointreau Rickeys, The Austin Winery, Austin Cocktails, Corona, Modelo and Pacifico. 

(The tell-tales signs of Autumn brought us crisp weather, which perfectly kept hair and clothing problem-free! Dare we say it was perfect timing?) 

Under a lantern-lit sunset skyline, the Fair Market outdoor event space enchanted the attendees with the whimsy of wining and dining. However, on the inside, the ambience stole the hearts of all who entered the reimagined industrial space by Matt Fajkus Architecture. 

Lights up! Fashion Stylist Sara Oswalt, who is noted for working with clients like Sara Bareilles and Neiman Marcus to name a few, curated this year’s show. 

Glitz and glam packed with a soulful edge, Oswalt’s stylings were carefully selected from local retail stores with this year’s theme in mind: Austin’ style.

P.C. Hair and makeup by Propaganda Hair Group created a mesmerizing look from model to model, allowing the embodiment of beauty and fashion to intertwine blissfully.

The modern soul band, The Nightowls, sound like Austin channeled Motown into the 21st Century. The chemistry wildly grew between the vocalists and the eager attendees, raising awareness to Oswalt’s styling. 

Motor helmets filled with iridescent and glitzy jewel-toned coatings gave us a taste of Austin over and over again in the best way possible: keep it weird. 

(*Without Intelligent Lighting Design, it wouldn't be a fashion show!)

Whether you’re a fan of daywear, evening wear or a statement piece, there was something for everyone! Shiny metallics, pops of color and classic neutrals wowed the crowd with a buzzworthy delight.

Tribeza Style Week’s Fashion Show set the trends for Fall and beyond. With event proceeds benefiting Dress for Success, philanthropy and style showcased Austin’s modern style in true spirit: genuineness. 

To see our favorite picks off the runway, click here.

[austinfashionreport]

MOD: A Modern Take on '60s Fashion

By Natalie Merola

Partygoers entered a time warp through sequined tables and The Beatles filling the air with tunes of the ‘60s on Sept. 12 at MOD: A Modern Take on ‘60s Fashion. The LBJ Presidential Library and Launch 787 partnership presented MOD, where seven Austin designers showcased their creative interpretations of Lady Bird Johnson's White House best dresses. 

Designers Ross Bennett, Crowned Bird, Gail Chovan, Daniel Esquivel, Amber Perley, Boudoir Queen and Rare Trends each selected a dress worn by Lady Bird during her White House years. These dresses are locked away in the archives, but these relics came out to shine on the runway next to the models in the modern looks. 

Check out our photo coverage of this groovy event here. 

Artist Links:

https://www.facebook.com/DanielEsquivelFanClub https://www.facebook.com/rossbennettdesigner https://www.facebook.com/crownedbird https://www.facebook.com/PearlSouthernCouture https://www.facebook.com/pages/Blackmail-Boutique/110103783965 https://www.facebook.com/iamraretrends

[austinfashionreport]

Le Garage Boutique Sale

By Natalie Merola

Hundreds of shoppers came to the Le Garage Boutique Sale on August 23 and 24 at the Palmer Event Center. Designers and boutiques allowed shoppers the opportunity to get the runway look for one of the best sales ever: 75% off or more! 

Whether shoppers wanted jewelry, clothing, handbags or anything in between the latter, Le Garage Boutique Sale had it all. 

Racks filled the entire room with gorgeous dresses, scarves and other fun finds that left shoppers wanting more. Langford Market and Busy-Being set the fashion vibes right: stay unique and fab chic. Not only did the clothing here at the sale inspire shoppers to hold onto the latest summer trends, but it also tucked away fall and winter transitional/versatile pieces perfect for any fashionista's wardrobe. 

After chatting with House of Eberstein, Heart of Flint and Alouria Jewelry & Accessories, clearly, the fine craftsmanship that went into handmade jewelry caught the eyes of many fashionistas wanting something unique and different that these Austin boutiques and designers offered. 

Let's not forget about stepping out in the right shoes! Fortress of Inca sold a wide variety of its luxury shoes for such a steal. One of their hot items, the Penelope Sol chunky heels, showcased the artisanal designs that are handmade in Peru. (We love sustainable goods that provide fair wages and natural fibers!)

After an epic and unforgettable shopping weekend, Le Garage Sale donated new clothes, shoes and accessories to the Assistance League of Austin. All in all, this fashion event rang true to the Austinite spirit: be genuine, kind and work hard. 

Until next time, this is your Austin Fashion Report live and on the scene of worldwide fashion trends near you! 

For more photos from this event, click here. 

[austinfashionreport]

Austin Fashion Report attended the Anniversary Fashion Soirée event August 30th, 2013 in celebration of the anniversary of two very important fashion supporters here in Austin. InFluential Magazine, and of course, the Young & Fabulous. And well there is certainly one thing to say...It was young and it was fabulous! Delightful edibles were catered by Silver Whisk, and what's a fashion soirée without refreshments? The guests mingled and sipped over ginger cocktails by  Jameson Irish Whiskey. Yes, there was food! Yes, there was booze! But more importantly there was fashion! With cameras flashing and models walking, this only means one thing… a catwalk! The night featured a runway show with unique designs by RUNE, Kymerah, and Reese + Riley. It was certainly a night to remember. All that needs to be said on our end is, when is the next event? 

People featured above (in order from left to right) 

1. Nicole Glenn, Emilie Stillwagon, Zyaire Jones 

2. Stephanie Grace, Jake Circa, Zyaire Jones 

3. Reebeka Lizak 

4. Emilie Stillwagon, Preston Hall