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[Image by Stephen Stephens for MNfashion boutique, Styling by Miyagi Salon. Flower Clip by Ruby3, capelet by Attagirl by Kedrin]Fashion: Holiday shopping events
The MNfashion Holiday Boutique opens for its second year at Gaviidae Common with all-local designers, including Calpurnia Peach, Ruby3, FOAT Design and George Moskal. (Opening reception 4-7 p.m. Thu. 555 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.)
Another pop-up boutique, The Guild, also hosts an opening. More than a dozen local designers, collectors, stylists and retailers have teamed up for this upscale boutique. Items range from Laurie Luehmann's taxidermy chic to Organic Divas skin care to June's designer resale. (5-8 p.m. Thu. 4414 Excelsior Blvd., St. Louis Park.)
For the annual Local-to-Global Jewelry Artist Mart at the Walker Shop, jewelry designers will fly in from Brooklyn, San Francisco and Chicago for a meet-and-greet. (11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 1750 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls. 612-375-7633.)
Robyne Robinson hosts two events for her ROX jewelry line. She'll show her most elaborate designs alongside artist Patty Paulus at a monthlong show at Frank Stone Gallery. (Opening reception 5-9 p.m. Fri. Through Nov. 29. 1224 NE. 2nd St., Mpls. 612-617-9965.)
The MNfashion Holiday Boutique opens for its second year at Gaviidae Common with all-local designers, including Calpurnia Peach, Ruby3, FOAT Design and George Moskal. (Opening reception 4-7 p.m. Thu. 555 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.)
Another pop-up boutique, The Guild, also hosts an opening. More than a dozen local designers, collectors, stylists and retailers have teamed up for this upscale boutique. Items range from Laurie Luehmann's taxidermy chic to Organic Divas skin care to June's designer resale. (5-8 p.m. Thu. 4414 Excelsior Blvd., St. Louis Park.)
For the annual Local-to-Global Jewelry Artist Mart at the Walker Shop, jewelry designers will fly in from Brooklyn, San Francisco and Chicago for a meet-and-greet. (11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 1750 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls. 612-375-7633.)
Robyne Robinson hosts two events for her ROX jewelry line. She'll show her most elaborate designs alongside artist Patty Paulus at a monthlong show at Frank Stone Gallery. (Opening reception 5-9 p.m. Fri. Through Nov. 29. 1224 NE. 2nd St., Mpls. 612-617-9965.)
[Christopher Straub / Image courtesy Lifetime]Crawl: Straub leaves "Runway"
Hopes that a Minnesotan would win the current season of "Project Runway" were crushed when Christopher Straub was eliminated in the final challenge last week. After former Minneapolitan Ra'mon-Lawrence Coleman got the boot in week six, Straub became the one to root for. The designer, who has been a fixture at the weekly viewing parties at Hell's Kitchen, was in New York doing press last week; he watched Thursday's episode with fellow contestant Carol Hannah Whitfield and a couple of friends in a hotel. "I would have rather been in Minneapolis, but this was a great substitute," Straub said over the phone on Friday. "The thing I was really happy with was the editing. They really treated me with a lot of respect last night," he added. "People had been calling me delusional. What's nice is in this episode, there was me saying I was very aware of being the kooky designer in the show." Straub clearly has more to come. His accessories line has been well-received (Rachael Ray even bought a piece) and the designer plans to launch an accessories line with "a major retailer" yet to be announced. He will also appear at JB Hudson Jewelers on Thursday with his collection of handbags, wallets and accessories (5-9 p.m. Thu. 901 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.)
Hopes that a Minnesotan would win the current season of "Project Runway" were crushed when Christopher Straub was eliminated in the final challenge last week. After former Minneapolitan Ra'mon-Lawrence Coleman got the boot in week six, Straub became the one to root for. The designer, who has been a fixture at the weekly viewing parties at Hell's Kitchen, was in New York doing press last week; he watched Thursday's episode with fellow contestant Carol Hannah Whitfield and a couple of friends in a hotel. "I would have rather been in Minneapolis, but this was a great substitute," Straub said over the phone on Friday. "The thing I was really happy with was the editing. They really treated me with a lot of respect last night," he added. "People had been calling me delusional. What's nice is in this episode, there was me saying I was very aware of being the kooky designer in the show." Straub clearly has more to come. His accessories line has been well-received (Rachael Ray even bought a piece) and the designer plans to launch an accessories line with "a major retailer" yet to be announced. He will also appear at JB Hudson Jewelers on Thursday with his collection of handbags, wallets and accessories (5-9 p.m. Thu. 901 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.)
[A Polaroid print by Nadine Gross]Friday: "Polaroid Prints" at BlackBlue
Although Nadine Gross has been shooting exclusively on Polaroid 600 film since 2001, her work has yet to see the light of day. The 500-plus photos in Gross' collection play on color, pattern and texture, more akin to minimalist abstract art than one would expect from such a populist form of photography. "It's old-school technology, but nothing compares to the beauty and surprise of the image that instant film creates," she says. The show will be the first art opening at the new St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. Bonus: Get 10% off any clothing item at BlackBlue during the reception.
Friday-Sunday: NEMAA Fall Fine Arts Show at Grainbelt Bottling House
This group show showcases the best art in northeast Minneapolis. Painting, photography, mixed media and sculpture from 150 artists were selected by a jury of curators from the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Soap Factory and Fox Tax. We recommend hitting up the opening reception Friday for the chance to vote on the People's Choice award and nosh on snacks from the Red Stag Supperclub, along with open studios and opportunities to meet the artists.
Check out my l’étoile shopping guide HERE. Here are some highlights:
Although Nadine Gross has been shooting exclusively on Polaroid 600 film since 2001, her work has yet to see the light of day. The 500-plus photos in Gross' collection play on color, pattern and texture, more akin to minimalist abstract art than one would expect from such a populist form of photography. "It's old-school technology, but nothing compares to the beauty and surprise of the image that instant film creates," she says. The show will be the first art opening at the new St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. Bonus: Get 10% off any clothing item at BlackBlue during the reception.
Friday-Sunday: NEMAA Fall Fine Arts Show at Grainbelt Bottling House
This group show showcases the best art in northeast Minneapolis. Painting, photography, mixed media and sculpture from 150 artists were selected by a jury of curators from the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Soap Factory and Fox Tax. We recommend hitting up the opening reception Friday for the chance to vote on the People's Choice award and nosh on snacks from the Red Stag Supperclub, along with open studios and opportunities to meet the artists.
Check out my l’étoile shopping guide HERE. Here are some highlights:
Luehmann animal skulls]Thursday: The Guild Grand Opening
This new holiday shop on Excelsior Boulevard in St. Louis Park is now open, and features an eclectic mix of merchandise from local retailers, stylists, and companies. Snag designer resale from June, cosmetics and skincare from Organic Divas, fossils and animal skull finds from Laurie Luehmann, treasures from stylist Gwen Leeds, and Pam Mondale's jewelry and accessories. (Grand opening 5-8 p.m. 4414 Excelsior Blvd., St. Louis Park.)
This new holiday shop on Excelsior Boulevard in St. Louis Park is now open, and features an eclectic mix of merchandise from local retailers, stylists, and companies. Snag designer resale from June, cosmetics and skincare from Organic Divas, fossils and animal skull finds from Laurie Luehmann, treasures from stylist Gwen Leeds, and Pam Mondale's jewelry and accessories. (Grand opening 5-8 p.m. 4414 Excelsior Blvd., St. Louis Park.)
[ROX jewelry]Friday: ROX Opening Reception at Frank Stone Gallery
L'étoile fave Robyne Robinson hosts two events for her jewelry line, ROX, this weekend. Most exciting, the designer and noted arts collector will be showing her most elaborate designs alongside artist Patty Paulus at a month-long show at Northeast’s Frank Stone Gallery. (Opening reception 5-9 p.m. Fri. Ongoing through Nov. 29. 1224 2nd St. NE., Mpls. 612-617-9965.) On Saturday, head to Spalon Montage to get a glimpse of the designs she created for "Project Runway" designer Ra'mon-Lawrence Coleman's Fashion Week show this past fall. (Noon-5 p.m. Sat. 3909 W. 49th St., Edina.)
L'étoile fave Robyne Robinson hosts two events for her jewelry line, ROX, this weekend. Most exciting, the designer and noted arts collector will be showing her most elaborate designs alongside artist Patty Paulus at a month-long show at Northeast’s Frank Stone Gallery. (Opening reception 5-9 p.m. Fri. Ongoing through Nov. 29. 1224 2nd St. NE., Mpls. 612-617-9965.) On Saturday, head to Spalon Montage to get a glimpse of the designs she created for "Project Runway" designer Ra'mon-Lawrence Coleman's Fashion Week show this past fall. (Noon-5 p.m. Sat. 3909 W. 49th St., Edina.)
[New jewelry by Silver Cocoon]Saturday: Local-to-Global Jewelry Artist Mart at Walker Gift Shop
Meet the designers behind the baubles at the annual Local-to-Global Jewelry Artist Mart event at Walker Gift Shop. Jewelry designers will be flying in from Brooklyn, San Francisco, and Chicago for the meet-and-greet, joining local designers Tia Keobounpheng of Silver Cocoon and Devon Driscoll and Ann Lambrecht. Local chocolatier J. T. McElrath will be on hand from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. offering samples of his delish delectables. (11 a.m.-5 p.m. 1750 Hennepin Av., Mpls. 612-375-7633.)
Saturday: Presence of the Holidays at Suburban World Theatre
This handmade gift mart curated by artist Karla Haugen features work by 35 artists and artisans, including artwork, jewelry, fashion, food, beauty and home and holiday décor. Livening up the atmosphere will be live entertainment, food and drink, and a silent auction to benefit the theater. (10 a.m.-5 p.m. 3022 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. 612-743-6417.)
Meet the designers behind the baubles at the annual Local-to-Global Jewelry Artist Mart event at Walker Gift Shop. Jewelry designers will be flying in from Brooklyn, San Francisco, and Chicago for the meet-and-greet, joining local designers Tia Keobounpheng of Silver Cocoon and Devon Driscoll and Ann Lambrecht. Local chocolatier J. T. McElrath will be on hand from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. offering samples of his delish delectables. (11 a.m.-5 p.m. 1750 Hennepin Av., Mpls. 612-375-7633.)
Saturday: Presence of the Holidays at Suburban World Theatre
This handmade gift mart curated by artist Karla Haugen features work by 35 artists and artisans, including artwork, jewelry, fashion, food, beauty and home and holiday décor. Livening up the atmosphere will be live entertainment, food and drink, and a silent auction to benefit the theater. (10 a.m.-5 p.m. 3022 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. 612-743-6417.)
[Slug and Murs of FELT]Tuesday: FELT Holiday Meet-and-greet at Fifth Element
Get your holiday greeting card photo taken with local hip hop superstars Slug, Murs and Aesop Rock in celebration of the release of their new collaborative recording, FELT 3: A Tribute to Rosie Perez. While you’re there, drop off a toy for the Toys for Tots holiday toy drive and enter-to-win for prizes. They also promise “surprises,” and we’re crossing our fingers for a surprise performance from the trio. (6-9 p.m. 2411 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls. 612-377-0044.)
Tuesday: Hygge & West sale at Urban Bean
Locally-owned gift company Hygge & West hosts their annual holiday event featuring their knits, tees, plates, candles, jewelry, and stationery, as well as ceramics from Too Beautiful For You. Take in deals of at least 50 percent off while sipping bubbly and snacking on apps at one of our fave coffeehouses. (6:30-9:30 p.m. 3255 Bryant Av. S., Mpls.)
Also check out my St. Paul blog over at the651.com. Here’s some highlights:
Thursday-Saturday: W7 Collective presents "An Uncommon Market"
www.thew7collective.com This new store, open the second weekend of each month, gives you a couple of shopping opportunities before the holidays. Shop for handmade soaps, screen-printed apparel by newly-launched Rapport Apparel, clutches by A03, and jewelry by Silver Cocoon while nibbling cupcakes, sipping drinks, and taking in live music. Also open December 10-11. (11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. The Pilney Building, 1032 W. 7th St., St. Paul.)
Non-holiday-related fashion and shopping events this weekend:
Thursday: Malaysian-born, New York-based fashion designer Yeohlee Teng, whose sculptural, conceptual work is part of the permanent collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art, will be at the Weisman Art Museum for a runway show of her Spring 2010 line, accompanied by a luncheon and trunk show. (Noon. Thu. $75. 333 E. River Pkwy., Mpls. 612-625-9494.)
Get your holiday greeting card photo taken with local hip hop superstars Slug, Murs and Aesop Rock in celebration of the release of their new collaborative recording, FELT 3: A Tribute to Rosie Perez. While you’re there, drop off a toy for the Toys for Tots holiday toy drive and enter-to-win for prizes. They also promise “surprises,” and we’re crossing our fingers for a surprise performance from the trio. (6-9 p.m. 2411 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls. 612-377-0044.)
Tuesday: Hygge & West sale at Urban Bean
Locally-owned gift company Hygge & West hosts their annual holiday event featuring their knits, tees, plates, candles, jewelry, and stationery, as well as ceramics from Too Beautiful For You. Take in deals of at least 50 percent off while sipping bubbly and snacking on apps at one of our fave coffeehouses. (6:30-9:30 p.m. 3255 Bryant Av. S., Mpls.)
Also check out my St. Paul blog over at the651.com. Here’s some highlights:
Thursday-Saturday: W7 Collective presents "An Uncommon Market"
www.thew7collective.com This new store, open the second weekend of each month, gives you a couple of shopping opportunities before the holidays. Shop for handmade soaps, screen-printed apparel by newly-launched Rapport Apparel, clutches by A03, and jewelry by Silver Cocoon while nibbling cupcakes, sipping drinks, and taking in live music. Also open December 10-11. (11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. The Pilney Building, 1032 W. 7th St., St. Paul.)
Non-holiday-related fashion and shopping events this weekend:
Thursday: Malaysian-born, New York-based fashion designer Yeohlee Teng, whose sculptural, conceptual work is part of the permanent collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art, will be at the Weisman Art Museum for a runway show of her Spring 2010 line, accompanied by a luncheon and trunk show. (Noon. Thu. $75. 333 E. River Pkwy., Mpls. 612-625-9494.)
Saturday: Children of the Revolution at Suburban World Theatre
Inspired by Bohemian Parisian artists of the late 19th century, this fashion show and masquerade party also serves as the Libertine Asylum’s biggest show of the season. The neo-Victorian collective of fashion designers (composed of Apatico, Scoundrelle's Keep, Blasphemina's Closet, KMKostumes and Megan Maude) are some of the most technically skilled designers in town, creating intricate, ornate looks inspired by the Industrial era. The night also includes live music from Sawbones, burlesque and belly dancing, and fellow revelers dressed to the heights of 19th century Parisian chic. From the sounds of it, this is the closest you’re going to get to a real-life Moulin Rouge. (7:30 p.m. $15–75. 3022 Hennepin Av., Mpls. 55408. 952-270-6700.)
Friday: Fashion Sabbath at Bedlam Theatre
This Friday the 13th-themed show features an appropriately-dark fashion show. Though info is sparse on the designers, there will be music from local dark-folk band Dark Dark Dark, which just returned from a name-making tour with WHY? Also on the lineup: Brute Heart and tête-à-tête. (10 p.m. $10. 18-plus. 1501 S 6th St., Mpls. 612-341-1038.)
Saturday: b. resale Sale
Burgeoning resale store b. resale doesn't yet have a stand-alone retail store, but they'll be selling their wares (gently used, hot designer fashions, mixed in with classic vintage and basic items) at this one-off sale. Over 500 pieces of resale clothing will be up for sale – including sneakers, t-shirts, dresses, jeans, handbags, hoodies. Muffins and mimosas will be served. (11 a.m.-2 p.m. 3504 17th Av. S., Mpls.)
Inspired by Bohemian Parisian artists of the late 19th century, this fashion show and masquerade party also serves as the Libertine Asylum’s biggest show of the season. The neo-Victorian collective of fashion designers (composed of Apatico, Scoundrelle's Keep, Blasphemina's Closet, KMKostumes and Megan Maude) are some of the most technically skilled designers in town, creating intricate, ornate looks inspired by the Industrial era. The night also includes live music from Sawbones, burlesque and belly dancing, and fellow revelers dressed to the heights of 19th century Parisian chic. From the sounds of it, this is the closest you’re going to get to a real-life Moulin Rouge. (7:30 p.m. $15–75. 3022 Hennepin Av., Mpls. 55408. 952-270-6700.)
Friday: Fashion Sabbath at Bedlam Theatre
This Friday the 13th-themed show features an appropriately-dark fashion show. Though info is sparse on the designers, there will be music from local dark-folk band Dark Dark Dark, which just returned from a name-making tour with WHY? Also on the lineup: Brute Heart and tête-à-tête. (10 p.m. $10. 18-plus. 1501 S 6th St., Mpls. 612-341-1038.)
Saturday: b. resale Sale
Burgeoning resale store b. resale doesn't yet have a stand-alone retail store, but they'll be selling their wares (gently used, hot designer fashions, mixed in with classic vintage and basic items) at this one-off sale. Over 500 pieces of resale clothing will be up for sale – including sneakers, t-shirts, dresses, jeans, handbags, hoodies. Muffins and mimosas will be served. (11 a.m.-2 p.m. 3504 17th Av. S., Mpls.)
