Le Petit Connaisseur de la Mode

Minneapolis talent contribute to Aveda's Charcoal Suite Collection

2012-01-27T11:54:00.000-08:00

Minneapolis-based beauty brand Aveda has released its latest editorial collection, the Charcoal Suite for Red Chocolate hair color training organization in Minneapolis, and a slew of local talent contributed to the shoot - including Red Chocolate co-founders and directors David Adams and Peter Gray, and the amazingly transformative Vision model Rachel Weiher.

From the press release:

“At a recent hair show, I created a segment that was based on imagining a world without color,” says David Adams, co-founder and president of Red Chocolate hair color education, “so I began with coloring a group of models in blacks and grays, and then in the second part of the presentation I did multicolored hair. But when I stepped back and really looked, I realized that the blacks and grays were just as beautiful as the colors. And that’s where the idea for Charcoal Suite came from.” Add in the brilliant collaboration of talent, including photographer Robert Lobetta, and the Charcoal Suite collection was born, showcasing the stunning results of an inspired fusion between London and New York, beauty and fashion, technique and art.

Photographer: Robert Lobetta
Hair: David Adams and Peter Gray
Makeup: Rudy Miles
Makeup Assistant: Julie Swenson
Model: Rachel Weiher/Vision Management Group

Local inspiration: muses and lenses

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

The latest in local inspiration from Twin Cities photographers and their muses runs the gamut - a mix of fresh and crisp, to hazy and sultry, to dark and moody.

Vision model Ashlee Walker gives good face in a shoot by Peter Holme styled by Jane Belfry with earrings by Stephanie Lake Design, with makeup by Andrea Holton and hair by Charlie Brackney of HAUS Salon.

Local photographer and makeup artist Alice Berman snaps a pretty portrait of fashion stylist Anna Woodling.

Former Minneapolis model Raina Hein (of America's Next Top Model fame) smolders in the desert. (Photo: Ari Abramczyk. Styling: Jacqueline Lavaun.)

Minnesota native model (and Nina Dobrev doppelganger) Whitney Fransway gets glitter everywhere in a shoot by L.A. photographer Nicole Hill.

Graham Tolbert posts some behind-the-scenes images of singer Channy Leaneagh from the recent Poliça video for "Lay Your Cards Out."

Chicagoan photographer Lauren Wuornos comes home to Champlin to snap some outdoor shots of her pal Kate Offerdahl.

Musician Liam Watkins goes into the haze, courtesy of Instagram.

Former METRO fashion editor Mary O'Regan dons her grandmother's mink coat for her last Minneapolis outfit post before moving to Seattle.

Local e-retailer Ship&Shape launch their Valentine's-themed collection "Be Mine" with an adorable lookbook.

Photographer Winona Grey gets gorgeous in this self portrait.

Former Minneapolis photographer Brad Ogbonna talks his favorite New York spots for File Magazine.

Rachel Palmer gets ready for winter.

Wonderblood blogger Julia snaps her pal Lyz.

Ignite model Kara rocks the classic combination of faded denim and lipstick. Photographer: Madison Dube. Styling: Davee Ek and Melinda Guajardo. Hair and Makeup: Masha Chebotayeva)

Minneapolis model Kouwai Potocnik rocks a leather jacket, Jack Daniels tee and cutoffs on the street.

Mplstyle.com spotlights menswear-inspired looks on Ignite model Kara.

Photographer Peter Holme gets Hitchcockian.

More one-of-a-kind pieces for sale by Danielle Everine

2012-01-27T07:42:00.000-08:00

Local designer Danielle Everine of Project Runway fame has added some new pieces to her collection over at e-retailer One-Offs Yippee! (which I always cringe upon typing). As much as I hate the name of the site, it does a great job of giving designers the opportunity to sell their one-of-a-kind pieces, which are typically a hard sell in a more traditional brick-and-mortar retail setting.

Windowpane wool intimate shorts

Plaid wool intimate shorts

These are from Danielle's collaboration mini-line with local lingerie designer Sarah White of Jagress Intimates last spring (which I reviewed for l'etoile). Though designed as lingerie, they'd be super cute paired with some dark opaque tights and boots.

Silk organza grey sheer trousers

Silk organza black sheer trousers

These pieces from Danielle's all-sheer Spring/Summer 2011 collection, shown at Voltage 2011, are a little trickier to wear, but would be great worn with some short-shorts or contrasting leggings underneath.

Click here for more of Danielle's one-of-a-kind looks for sale on One-Offs Yippee!

Voltage: The show will not go on

2012-01-25T14:39:00.001-08:00

Annual fashion-and-rock show Voltage: Fashion Amplified has been a staple of Twin Cities fashion since it debuted in 2004 at First Avenue. With creator and producer Anna Lee's widely unreported announcement at last year's show that it would be her last time producing the show and, in effect, the "last Voltage as we know it," it has proven to be the case. The show will not go on, MNfashion representatives told Jay Gabler of Twin Cities Daily Planet this week.

[Pictured: A look by Ivan Idland from Voltage 2011. Photo by Mary O'Regan/Art of Wore]

On a personal note, I had been with the show every year as Lead Stylist, helping curate the lineup of fashion designers, accessories designers, and overall styling since 2007. I, along with nearly every other crew member (most of whom had been with the show since the beginning) had also resigned from the show, so this came to no surprise to me. If Voltage were to continue, it'd continue in a different format with a completely new team. The door is open for Voltage to return, but it's safe to say it's the end of an era.

On the upside, MNfashion has decided to focus their energy on the newly-rebranded Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) Fashion Week (formerly MNfashion Week), happening February 19-26. Visit mnfashion.org for forthcoming lineup to be announced, and Twin Cities Daily Planet for the full story.

Editorial: My cover spread for Minnesota Bride

2012-01-24T20:04:00.001-08:00

I had the opportunity to style two of three covers and a spread within the Spring/Summer 2012 issue of local print glossy Minnesota Bride. Under the direction of the magazine's former editor Mary O'Regan (who recently relocated to Seattle), I styled looks that married bridal with a grunge/rocker feel - an unlikely combination, but I think it was a successful attempt. As an added bonus, I got to work with one of my favorite Twin Cities models, Vision Management Group's Ashlee Walker, who recently got signed by New York agency DNA.

Photos: Lena Lakoma
Hair/makeup: Fatima Olive

Coco & Breezy announce Minneapolis personal appearance & pop-up shop

2012-01-24T17:48:00.000-08:00

Eyewear designers Coco & Breezy are showing their hometown some love when they make their way back to Minneapolis next week for an in-store appearance and pop-up shop. The identical twins - who started their accessory line in Minneapolis before making it big in New York - had a big year last year, getting their eyewear on the face of Lady Gaga, appearing in a Beyonce music video, and racking up tons of international press, thanks to their edgy designs and unique personal style. Swing by Studiiyo23 (2319 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls.) next Thursday, February 2 between 6 and 8 p.m. to get the chance to meet the designers and shop their shades (plus some TBA discounts), which you can check out in advance at www.cocoandbreezy.com.

Coco & Breezy in New York Magazine

2012-01-23T14:38:00.001-08:00

Prolific eyewear designers Coco & Breezy get interviewed in the latest issue of New York Magazine:

Click here to read the full interview.

Editorial: Raina Hein for Harper's Bazaar Hong Kong

2012-01-21T14:08:00.000-08:00

Minnesota native model Raina Hein shot to international fandom with her stint on America's Next Top Model a couple of years ago, moving to L.A., landing high-profile campaigns, and starring in a Bon Iver music video.

The model, represented locally by Ignite, also apparently been nabbing some pretty high-profile editorial work. I just stumbled across this gorgeous spread featuring Raina from a fall issue of Harper's Bazaar Hong Kong:

Danielle Everine to be featured in new YSL retrospective

2012-01-20T14:56:00.000-08:00

The new Yves Saint Lauren retrospective at the Denver Art Museum gets a Project Runway twist when it opens in March. In addition to highlights of YSL's career, from his early days at Dior in the 1950s through his last show in 2002, the exhibition opening will kick off with a runway show of looks inspired by the iconic designer created by a group of Project Runway alumni - including hometown girl Danielle Everine. Each of the eight designers, notably season eight's Michael Costello and Mondo Guerra, will show five original looks. The exhibition overseen by Pierre Bergé, who was YSL’s one-time romantic partner and life-long business partner, will be hosted at the museum from March 25 through July 8.

YSL's Paris retrospective. Photo: © Sophie Carre / Fondation Pierre Bergé-Yves Saint Laurent

Vision's Nic LaFrance for Cosmo U.K.

2012-01-19T14:43:00.000-08:00

Vision-represented model Nic LaFrance is one of the agency's biggest success stories since he jetted off to New York a couple of years ago. Here is the Minnesota native in the latest issue of Cosmo U.K.:

Maritza Ramirez' "Little Black Dress"

2012-01-19T14:11:00.000-08:00

Up-and-coming Minneapolis photographer Amy Gee shoots local designer Maritza Ramirez' contribution to last fall's Little Black Dress event on friend and beauty blogger Kara Nesvig - and dare I say, the dress looks much better on her than the model in the show. The gown suits Kara's figure and old Hollywood look perfectly.

Photos: Amy Gee
Dress: Maritza Ramirez
Model: Kara Nesvig
Hair: Caitlin Dvorak (HAUS Salon)
Makeup: Heidi Melena

Friday: "Character in Costume: A Jack Edwards Retrospective"

2012-01-19T10:30:00.000-08:00

Twin Cities costume designer Jack Edwards is about the closest we'll come to having our own Edith Head. His fabled history has included stints working as the right hand man alongside some of New York’s significant 1960s costume designers, an 18-year tenure as the Guthrie Theater’s Costume Director, and a dozen years as costume designer for the iconic 8th Floor Christmas Fantasy Lands at Dayton's. His sizable body of work - including dozens of costume sketches, photographs, press clippings, playbills, reviews, and 30 actual costumes designed by Edwards - will finally receive its own stage during the Goldstein's Jack Edwards retrospective, "Character in Costume," which kicks of with an opening reception this Friday. Click here to read Lavender Magazine's in-depth new interview with Edwards.

Event details:
Opening reception 6-8 p.m. Friday, January 20. Exhibition runs through May 20.
Goldstein Museum of Design, 241 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Avenue, University of Minnesota's St. Paul Campus, 612-624-7434, goldstein.design.umn.edu

Friday: "FOUND: The Art of Wedding"

2012-01-18T15:30:00.000-08:00

Weddings are becoming more of an art-directed production than ever, thanks to the sophisticated eye, taste and craft of local photographers, videographers, designers, stationers, florists, and bakers. Some of the most artistically-inclined independent wedding brands in the Twin Cities will be on display at "FOUND: The Art of Wedding," an event curated by photographer Eliesa Johnson of Photogen Inc. It will feature fine-art installations by Photogen Inc. and Rivets and Roses, fashion designer Tara LaTour, floral designers Munster Rose, filmmakers Capture Studios and stationer Paperista, plus complimentary copies of the latest issue of Minnesota Bride, tunes from Flow DJ, treats from Cocoa & Fig and sparkling cider from Crispin.

Event details:
6-10 p.m. Friday, January 20. 514 Studios, 514 N 3rd Street, Ste 101, Minneapolis. www.foundevent.com

Editorial: Alexandria Brouhard in "Cream of the Crop"

2012-01-17T10:30:00.000-08:00

Ignite face-of-the-moment Alexandria Brouhard stars in this gorgeous editorial from the Spring 2012 issue of Minnesota Bride, photographed by the esteemed William Clark and styled by Hollie Mae Schultz. It's one of the final shoots creative directed by former Minnesota Bride editor Mary O'Regan, who recently departed to Seattle for an editorial position with Nordstrom. Her vision, eye and passion will be missed, but you can follow her adventures to come at her blog, artofwore.com.

Minnesota Bride Spring 2012 | "Cream of the Crop"
Model: Alexandria
Photographer: William Clark
Fashion Editor: Mary O'Regan
Senior Art Director: Janet McLaughlin
Stylist: Hollie Mae Schultz
Hair and Makeup: Andrea Holton
Photo Assist: Heather Byington

Just launched: Ship&Shape's "Be Mine" collection

2012-01-15T15:45:00.000-08:00

Minneapolis-based e-retailer Ship&Shape has just released its second collection, "Be Mine." Just in time for prime Valentine's Day shopping, the limited-edition collection features a romantic selection of curated, handmade goods by Twin Cities artists and designers - from the overtly love-themed, like the ceramic mug sets with the phrase "I love you" written out in various languages; or more subtly sweet, like ruffled cotton bloomers and a porcelain lace collar. Each item is available in ultra-limited runs of about five a piece, so get them while they're hot.

Here's a sampling of the goods for sale:

Urban Jungle Scarf by Beth Chekola

Porcelain Lace Collar by Erin Smith

Valentine Mug by Ginny Sims

Turquoise Dangle Earrings by Molly Erickson

Cotton Bloomers by Rachel Blomgren

Window Moons by Isa Newby Gagarin

Visit www.shipandshape.com for more.

Mnartists.org delves into the fabulous closets of Ballet of the Dolls

2012-01-15T00:14:00.000-08:00

Mnartists.org writer Lightsey Darst offers an in-depth look into the fabulous closets of Ballet of the Dolls in the latest edition of the online literary arts journal. The Ritz Theater's in-house dance group is known for its abundance of feathers, glitter and color, particularly in its annual "Nutracker" performance, thanks largely to the decadent touch of costume designer, dancer and fashion stylist Grant Whittaker. Here's an excerpt:

Some costumes are custom-built, as ballet costumes usually are, but more seem rescued from thrift stores. I can just picture the shy fifties debutante who first wore this strapless peach floral confection with rows and rows of tulle and satin ribbon, then how it languished in her closet for years before she gave it away -- giving away with it the memory of her first kiss? Stained as it is, I think this dress is happy here -- as all these clothes are happy, glowing with use. Tatty, ratty, faded or frayed, it all pleads wear me, become.

Head over to mnartists.org to read the entire article; it's a good read. (My only complaint: it's a little short on visuals.)

Photos by Parker Michels-Boyce

Art Shanty Projects kicks off with on-ice fashion show

2012-01-14T23:32:00.000-08:00

It was one thing to have Christmas without snow, but no snow for the Art Shanties? That would just be wrong. Fortunately, the long-awaited snowfall began just in time for the commencement of Saturday's kick off of the Art Shanty Projects. The main attraction was certainly the debut of the Sashay Shantay shack, a fashion-geared shanty that not only allowed guests to try on handmade clothing by local designers such as Danielle Everine, Rachel Blomgren and Carly Schoen, but also culminated with an on-ice fashion show featuring the designers and their friends donning the wacky, wild and wooly wares - some appropriately wearing ice skates. The Sashay Shanty organizers reported on the blog afterward, "The most frequent comment of the day 'Oh! It’s nice and warm in here.' Second most: 'Oh! It’s so cuuuuuute!'" The Shanties run daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through February 5, with a runway show happening daily.

Look by Lindsay Rhyner

Look by Emrys Stramer

Danielle Everine, pictured third to right in her own design

Look by Emrys Stramer

Look by Lindsay Rhyner

Look by Carly Schoen

Look by Rachel Blomgren

Head over to City Pages' Dressing Room blog for a Q&A with designer Rachel Blomgren.

Photos via sashayshantay.wordpress.com

Local skincare line By Elizabeth Dehn ceases production

2012-01-12T14:53:00.000-08:00

Less than a year after launching, By Elizabeth Dehn is out of business. The local skincare collection from beauty editor Elizabeth Dehn, author of BeautyBets.com and former style editor for Minnesota Monthly, had been manufactured locally by Minnesota-based Galen Labs, until it abruptly shut its doors last year. Finding another manufacturer, sadly, proved too difficult and costly for Dehn to continue the line.

Video: Annie Larson knits get the Super 8 treatment

2012-01-12T02:48:00.002-08:00

Minnesota-turned-New York knitwear designer Annie Larson just released a fun new video featuring her colorful knitwear. Inspired by this mural by Minneapolis-connected artists Eric Carlson and Aaron Anderson of Hardland/Heartland fame, Annie and her pals don her retro wares in front of the mural, shot on Super 8 film by local filmmaker Sam Hoolihan. It's colorful and cheerful, to say the least.

Filmed and edited by Sam Hoolihan
Song "When You're Out" by Velvet Davenport
With Lindsay Noble, Erin Smith, Annie Larson, Tim Hudson,
Brett Smith, Eric Carlson, Derek Maxwell, and Aaron Anderson
Mural painted by Eric Carlson and Aaron Anderson
Filmed in Minneapolis, MN

Local inspiration: muses and lenses

2012-01-11T17:30:00.000-08:00

This week's edition of my weekly local photo feature, Muses and Lenses, black and white seems to be having a moment.

Painter Caitlin Karolczak looks positively painterly in her studio.

Photographer Russell Joslin shoots a portrait of his lady, Jessie Quast, entitled "Tunnel Vision."

Photographer Cody Litdke shoots the promo image for Cliche's upcoming "Avoid the Grey" fashion show. Click here for more details on the show.

Electronic musician Mark McGee plays patty-cake with his pooch.

Local experiemental electro band Dearling Physique get a new bio shoot by George Caswell. (Make-up by Hannah Eustis)

Graphic designer Lottie Anderson snaps a self-portrait.

Photographer Peter Holme captures pal Andy Rathlisberger in a pensive moment as part of his 365 day photo project...

...And himself in this striking self-portrait.

Photographer Vanessa Meade captures her favorite muse, model Marjorie Braddock.

Photographer Brandon Werth photographs couple Pradeepan and Amreitha.

Before and after: "Tabatha Takes Over" Jungle Red

2012-01-11T16:18:00.001-08:00

Last night's season premiere of Tabatha Takes Over (formerly Tabatha's Salon Takeover) featured Minneapolis salon Jungle Red. And while host Tabatha Coffey took the salon to task for its uncleanliness and lack of rules, and revealed that salon owner Suzanne Erickson had been living in the salon, it seemed that the embarrassment of having your problems broadcast on national TV was worth it. The stunning before-and-after pictures should be evidence enough of that:

If you missed the premiere last night, the episode will re-air throughout this week on Bravo.

METRO names local designer Amanda Christine one of its 2012 Keepers

2012-01-10T16:54:00.001-08:00

METRO Magazine has just announced its 2012 "Keeper Awards," and local fashion designer Amanda Natzel - better known as Amanda Christine - is among the talented Twin Citians honored. The hard-working designer is one of the most successful young designers in town, having her namesake line carried in over 30 stores across the country. Pick up a print issue of the magazine's January 2012 issue to see more of this years Keepers.

Editorial: "Twilight" by Emily Utne for Ghost Dancer

2012-01-10T16:19:00.000-08:00

National jewelry line Ghost Dancer just debuted the lookbook for its Fall/Winter 2012 collection, "Twilight," which was shot, styled and laid out. Anyone know is familiar with Utne's personal style shouldn't be surprised - the styling is purely her own, a mix of Stevie Nicks and '70s-meets-'90s gothic witchiness. It features Minnesota model Ashley Rae Weisz, a former America's Next Top Model contestant who is represented by Vision, and makeup by Amber Brenke. View and purchase the collection at ghostdancercollection.com.

Video: Polica's "Lay Your Cards Out"

2012-01-10T16:11:00.000-08:00

I rarely delve outside of the realm of local fashion on this blog, but local band Poliça's new, Jay-Z approved video for "Lay Your Cards Out" is too gorgeous not to post. As Jay-Z puts it, "The first tease of more to come; Poliça gives you the “Lay Your Cards Out” video debut; soft and smoky hypnosis of a girl, a beat and a black curtain."

NELLE & Ogge debut capsule collection of screen-printed clutches

2012-01-09T13:01:00.000-08:00

After a successful holiday capsule collection this past December, NELLE Handbags designer Laura Nelli is once again collaborating with Ogge, the independent textile line by screen-print designer Luci Kandler of Calpurnia Peach fame on a line of limited-edition, screen-printed clutches. The floral lace-print hard-case clutches will debut during l'atelier couture's grand re-opening runway show and party on Thursday (which will feature a fashion show with bridal designer Peter Langner. While not open to the public, you can view the clutches in NELLE's in-house showroom anytime following the party at l'atelier, by appointment only.

Lookbook: Freedom From Doubt F/W 2011 neckwear

2012-01-05T10:30:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week, I featured local neckwear designer Jared Zachary's one-of-a-kind collection of bowties for e-retailer One-Offs Yippee! By doing so, I came across the lookbook for the line's Fall/Winter 2011 namesake collection, starring the James Dean-channeling Vision model Joe Laue. See the complete collection below, available online at freedomfromdoubt.com or in store at Heimie's Haberdashery, Elsworth, Atmosfere and martinpatrick3.

[Ready-tied bowties, top to bottom, left to right: Charcoal Micro-diamond Wool; Dark Green Wool; Golden Brown Wool; Chocolate Plaid Wool; Wool-blend Speckled Grey Herringbone, all $58 each]

[Self-tie bowties, left to right: Chocolate Textured Wool; Green Micro-houndstooth Wool; Jet Black Cashmere; Navy Speckled Wool; Sand Textured Wool, all $58 each]

[Four-in-hand neckties, left to right: Deep Burgundy Wool; Grey Herringbone Wool; Jet Black Cashmere, Navy Herringbone Wool; Navy with Green Diamonds Wool, all $68 each]

[Pocket squares, top to bottom, left to right: Ivory Floral Silk; Decco Print Silk; Blue Floral Silk; Black Floral Silk; Chocolate Floral Silk, all $28 each]

[All photos by Bryce Bordenkecher]

Local fashion links: Week of January 2, 2012

2012-01-04T16:02:00.000-08:00

This week's local fashion link roundup includes new designer interviews, best-of lists and more:

[Allee Metro Chic. Photo: Ginger Pinson for Pioneer Press]

Pioneer Press' top five local boutiques of 2011 include Roe Wolfe, Askov Finlayson, Allee Metro Chic, and e-stores One-Offs Yippee! and Grace James.

Topping l'étoile magazine's year-end list (to which I contributed): Kevin Kramp and Annie Larson for Best Designer; Askov Finlayson and Roe Wolfe for Best New Stores; MNfashion Week's "The Shows" for Best Fashion Event; Danielle Everine for Best Fashion Breakout; and Mary O'Regan's Art of Wore for Best Blog. Click here to read the whole thing.

Click here for this week's local shopping guide from l'étoile.

TheBrownGirlFiles blogger Joan Erakit has new interviews with local jewelry designer Vanessa Zahid and fashion designer Emma Berg as part of her "Industry Look" series.

Thrillist spotlights local men's vintage vendor Greenwich Village.

Mplstyle.com has a new Q&A with Minnesota native, New York-based hairstylist Adam Livermore.

Kara Nesvig asks stylist Jane Belfry for her beauty wish list for her beauty blog, Vanity Project.

Minnesota Monthly spotlights local boutique Roe Wolfe in its December 2011 issue. Read their "Twitterview" with co-founder Romeny Chan here.

Local designer Kristin Berwald of Bionic Unicorn shares her spring 2012 moodboard.

Local neckwear company Pierrepont Hicks previews its spring 2012 collection.

Former METRO Magazine fashion editor Mary O'Regan just did an interview with New York-based online radio station BreakThru Radio; you can listen to it here.

Mall of America to replace Bloomingdale's with four new tenants

2012-01-04T15:08:00.000-08:00

The Mall of America announced today that longtime anchor store Bloomingdale's would be closing in March.

"At least four 'major international fashion-forward retail stores" - three new to town - will replace Bloomingdale's at Mall of America, vice president of public relations Dan Jasper announced Wednesday. He was not ready to name names today, but three of the four are said to be unique to the area. We're crossing our fingers for Zara, TopShop, and Mango. Star Tribune has more details. A sale starts this Sunday.

A look at the reinvented Bloomingdale's wing at MOA

Vision model Ashlee Walker signed to DNA New York

2012-01-03T18:15:00.000-08:00

Last week, Minneapolis-based modeling agency Vision Management Group announced exciting news - one of its most in-demand models, Ashlee Walker, had been signed to a New York agency. An email to Vision owner Teqen Zéa Aida confirmed the signing agency is DNA - which represents the likes of Linda Evangelista, Amber Valetta, Raquel Zimmermann, Natalia Vodianova, Doutzen Kroes, Tony Ward, Kristen McMenamy, Stella Tennant, and current #1 male model in the world Baptiste Giabiconi. Ashlee had previously been signed to Next agency in New York a year ago, and DNA is a significant step up.

Congrats, Ashlee!

Freedom From Doubt launches on One-Offs Yippee

2012-01-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

Local fashion e-retailer One-Offs Yippee! offers a legion of locally-designed goods - all of which are one of a kind. The latest designer to join the ranks, hot on the heels of Danielle Everine, is neckwear line Freedom From Doubt. The handiwork of Jared Zachary, the line of bowties are statement-making to say the least. Best of all, each in this series are entirely unique. Pictured below, the ties are $60 a pop and available now at one-offsyippee.com.

While you're at it, check out the designer's Fall/Winter 2011 collection of bowties, neckties, and pocket squares at freedomfromdoubt.com.

Elle Williams of Vision models covers Mpls.St.Paul Weddings

2012-01-03T16:37:00.000-08:00

As Vision owner Teqen Zea Aida puts the latest cover of Mpls.St.Paul Weddings, "Elle shines on this cover... it is called flawless and quite traditional Minnesota beauty. Elle is in a long line of breathtaking petite beauties at Vision...and this cover does her well." Couldn't have said it better myself.

BONUS: Two photos of Elle and fellow Vision model Mary Cann in the ballet-inspired spread inside the issue:

Local inspiration: muses and lenses

2012-01-03T13:48:00.000-08:00

It's another round of local inspiration from Twin Cities photographers and their subjects.

Jaime Carrera gets ready to strike in this portrait by fine art photographer Xavier Tavera.

Photographer Benjamin Fredrickson masks his latest muse, Bryce.

Photographer Peter Holme kicks off his 365 day project with a self portrait.

Lottie Anderson shows off her new chopped 'do.

Stylish couple Corey Tenold and Ashlee Walker get paparazzied by Brad Ogbonna at Friday night's "Last Night Famous" party. (Click here for more photos.)

Vision model Ali-Thompson Stucky is all illuminated.

Ignite model Rikki Roath does a shoot in Hong Kong with photographer Corallin Cao.

Ruby Girl style blogger Lindsey Herzog dons a NYE ensemble of fur and patterned tights.

Minnesota-native and Martha Stewart Weddings editor Melissa Colgan is looking très chic in the Winter 2012 issue of the magazine. (Photo by Johnny Miller)

Style blogger Chloe Ahlf gets her Audrey Hepburn on.

Style blogger Kitty Cotten gets her J. Crew on.

Filmmaker Elijah Chhum gets suited up with gear from Heimie's Haberdashery, including a silk pocket square by local line Freedom From Doubt.

Davee Ek takes advantage of December's fall-like weather in chic fur and layers.

Amy Gee looks out into the cold, long winter ahead.

Editorial: "All A Glow"

2012-01-03T12:00:00.000-08:00

Check out this gorgeous spread from the minds of local stylist Hollie Mae Schultz of HM Styling and hair and makeup artist Kate Erickson, as shot by Michael Haug. It features fashions by local designers Max Lohrbach, Emma Berg, Caroline Hayden, and Jenny Carle, plus boutiques June and Houndstooth, as well as Guthrie and Children's Theater costume shop CostumeRentals. It's fantastic to see this level of talent being showcased in the Twin Cities. For the full fashion spread and a behind-the-scenes video click HERE.

Credits:
Crew: Photographer - Michael Haug | Photo Assistant - Soua Vue | Videographer - Shane Nelson of Omni-fusion | Video Assistant - Carl Hansen | Stylist - HM Styling | Hair & Makeup Stylist - Kate Erickson | Prop/Set Stylist - Matthew Stenerson | Prop Assistant - Katherine Price | Assistant Wardrobe Stylist - Amy Shetler | Assistant Wardrobe Stylist - MaryLynn Shapiro | Assistant Wardrobe Prep Stylist - AJ | Photo Editor - Brenda Manthe | Model - Kelley from Wehmann Talent | Model - Natalie from Wehmann Talent | Model - Kara from Ignite Models | Location - Ground Zero/The Front Nightclub

Wardrobe Sources: Max Lohrbach | Emma Berg | Caroline Hayden | Jenny Carle | June | Houndstooth | Costume Rentals, a combined project of the Guthrie Theater and The Children’s Theatre Co.

Just announced: Cliche presents "Avoid the Grey"

2012-01-03T10:50:00.000-08:00

Local boutique Cliché's annual late-winter fashion show, "Avoid the Grey," returns for its seventh year on February 4. The show highlights the ready-to-wear collections of the Uptown shop's talented roster of local designers. This year's "voyeurism" theme offers a look into inspiration of ten of the store's designers, including Rachel Blomgren, Kathryn V, Needle & Black, Carmichael Claith, Danielle Everine, K.Jurek Couture, Sarah M. Holm, Amanda Christine, Gina Marie Vintage, and ArielSimone. Each collection will be accented by jewelry and accessories from Cocoquette, KR Designs, Sweet T, Lefthand Originals, Realia, and Chrysopoeia. Visit the Facebook event for more details.

[A shot from last year's "Avoid the Grey." Photo by Jahna Peloquin]

Editorial: Mary Cann in Mary Katrantzou for Nomenus Quarterly

2011-12-30T14:55:00.001-08:00

Minnesota model Mary Cann gets her Frida Khalo on in the latest issue of Nomenus Quarterly, wearing designer Mary Katrantzou's Spring/Summer 2012 collection. The vibrant and eye-catching florals worn by the Vision-represented model were gorgeously captured by native Minnesotan photographer Erik Madigan Heck, as styled by Heidi Bivens.

Danielle Everine releases one-of-a-kind pieces online

2011-12-30T14:22:00.000-08:00

Local fashion darling Danielle Everine is the latest local designer to be added to One-offs Yippee!, an e-retailer that offers one-of-a-kind pieces from Christopher Straub, ArielSimone, Sarah M. Holme and many other locals. The seven pieces look to be a mish-mash of items from past collections and new, never-before-seen pieces, available in sample sizes fitting a 0-4 (though Everine does custom orders). The bouses and dresses are cute and easy-to-wear, but the real standouts are the outerwear - Everine's specialty. Prices range from $88 for a blouse to $290 for the fur-sleeved coat. View the full collection here; you can find more Everine at her Etsy shop and in-store at Cliché.

Hand-dyed floral sheer cropped blouse (pictured at right at l'etoile's "Bright Society," September 2011. Photo: Peter Jamus)

White sheep fur & leather vest (pictured on right at "Pale Rider," September 2010. Photo: Digital Crush)

Fur sleeve and leather coat with embroidered yoke (pictured on right at "Pale Rider," September 2010. Photo: Digital Crush)

Windowpane cotton waistcoat

Hand-printed rose linen dress

Woven hand-printed "brick" dress

Sheer striped organza blouse

Vita.mn trend spread: "Animal Collection"

2011-12-27T15:18:00.000-08:00

My trend spread in the December 15 issue of Vita.mn spotlighted fall's animal trend:

Vita.mn trend spread: "All That Glitters"

2011-12-27T15:15:00.000-08:00

Last week's fashion spread in Vita.mn spotlighted some sparkly New Year's Eve-inspired looks:

Throwback: Benjamin Fredrickson's YSL poncho

2011-12-27T14:14:00.000-08:00

I remember this image of then-Minneapoline contributor Tyler Stevermer, by photographer Benjamin Fredrickson, now based in New York City. It appeared in the final print issue of l'étoile magazine from Spring 2008, available in full at issuu.com. But I had never heard the story behind it. Via Ben's tumblr:

2011's top 5 moments in Minnesota fashion

2011-12-27T12:00:00.000-08:00

Here are my five moments in local fashion for 2011, as originally published in Vita.mn:

Local inspiration: muses and lenses

2011-12-20T09:15:00.000-08:00

And here it is, another round of imagery captured by local photographers, and/or their muses.

MCAD student photographer Vincent Marcinelli previews a haunting piece from his senior project.

Photographer Corey Tenold and model Ashlee Walker make a picture perfect Old Hollywood couple.

Designers Coco & Breezy get styled and shot for an editorial.

Photographer Peter Jamus takes a reflective self portrait.

Photographer David Mendolia follows Tanja into the woods.

Grand Forks-based photographer Emma Katka takes a melodic self portrait.

Former Minneapolis designer Frances Zerr offers a glimpse into her sketchbook for her Spring 2011 collection.

Kouwai Potocnik gets sassy during a test shoot in L.A. (Photo: Alyson Aliano)

Ellen Dahl Lawson snaps tomboy street style for The Minneapoline.

Serah Sauser offers a behind-the-scenes peek of the latest video by Twin Cities R&B songstress Mayda.

Style blogger Shannon Licari Walling harkens back to the '90s with circle sunglasses and a leopard fur coat.

Adam Livermore styles some sexy pretty hair.

Lottie Anderson gets a fresh chop.

Things get Old Hollywood at Saturday night's l'étoile holiday party, Jubilee, at XYandZ Gallery. (Photo: Christian Erickson)

Davee Ek gets an early Christmas present.

Editorial: Kevin Kramp profiled in METRO Magazine

2011-12-20T01:05:00.001-08:00

Via METRO Magazine fashion editor Mary O'Regan, here is the full article featuring Twin Cities knitwear designer Kevin Kramp in the latest issue of METRO:

Friday: Local Designer Sample Sale at Cliché

2011-12-14T15:55:00.000-08:00

Local boutique Cliché has built a reputation for having a solid roster of emerging local designers. With their annual designer sample sale, local fashion fans have the chance to buy samples straight from the runways. Local designers including Danielle Everine, Amanda Christine (pictured), Sarah M. Holm, ArielSimone, Kathryn V, Jenny Carle and more will also be drastically reducing prices of existing inventory and bringing in past pieces that have not yet sold with savings up to 50 percent off.

Details:
When: 7-10 p.m. Friday, December 16.Where: Cliché, 2403 Lyndale Av. S., Minneapolis, 612-870-0420, www.clichempls.com

For more holiday shopping events this weekend, check out l'étoile's Guide to Sales & Shopping.

Vita.mn spotlight: NELLE + Ogge launches & the World (Craft) Fair

2011-12-08T17:32:00.001-08:00

I write about the NELLE + Ogge launch and this weekend's World (Craft) Fair in this week's issue of Vita.mn:

Vita.mn trend spread: "You've got plaid"

2011-12-08T17:23:00.001-08:00

In this week's issue of Vita.mn, I showcase fall's plaid trend.

Elijah Chhum's model profile for Vision's Mary Cann

2011-12-07T12:57:00.001-08:00

Here's a little bit of pretty for the mid-day of the mid-week: local filmmaker Elijah Chhum's model profile of Vision-represented, St. Paul native model Mary Cann, who's walked the New York Fashion Week runways for Erin Fetherston and the Blonds.
Mary Cann Model Profile 3 from Elijah Chhum on Vimeo.

MNfashion announces Autumn/Winter 2012 Minneapolis-St. Paul Fashion Week

2011-12-07T11:55:00.001-08:00

MNfashion just announced its spring fashion week - with some big changes. Instead of "MNfashion Week," it's being rebranded as Minneapolis-St. Paul Fashion Week, and it will take place a couple of months earlier - February 19 through 26. It's part of an attempt "to ourselves with the cadence of the rest of the fashion industry," says MNfashion executive director Emily Blanche in a press release. Another change will have designers showing the following season instead of the current season as an attempt to get in line with industry standards. The reason being, according to Blanche, to "allow buyers and the media to more conveniently engage with local designers and the great work they produce year after year" by offering more time between presentation and production. Registration runs now through December 23, 2011; a full event schedule will be released on January 16, 2012. For more information about Minneapolis-St. Paul Fashion Week or MNfashion visit www.mnfashion.org or email Amy.Overman@mnfashion.org.

[A look from Danielle Everine at Voltage 2011. Photo: Stacy Schwartz]

Emma Berg Spring/Summer 2012 lookbook: "The Midnight Garden"

2011-12-07T10:55:00.000-08:00

On the heels of HAUS Salon debuting their Fall/Winter 2011 hair collection come additional images - in full color, all the better to showcase the intense hues of Emma Berg's Spring/Summer 2012 collection, "The Midnight Garden," featured in the shoot. The Midnight Garden Capsule Collection was created specifically for "Dress Rehearsal," an event to benefit the Boys & Girls Club in the Twin Cities, and is said to be inspired by the energetic members of the North Boys & Girls Club. "The entire collection is as varied as the singing flowers in Alice in Wonderland with a vast array of silhouettes, textures and colors," Berg says on her website.

Photographer: rau+barber
Hair & make-up: HAUS Salon
Models: Ashlee, Elle, Olivia & Mary from Vision Management Group & Jill from HAUS.

Local inspiration: Whitney Fransway by Chris Steinbach

2011-12-06T17:33:00.000-08:00

Minnesota native model Whitney Fransway has certainly been making waves since her move to L.A. in 2009. After a stint in Seoul, she's back in L.A.; here she is in a lovely new set of images of Whitney (who's represented locally by Ignite) by L.A.-based photographer Chris Steinbach, demonstrating the girl's got as much editorial appeal as she does commercial.

Click here for more Whitney.

Coco & Breezy in Vogue Italia

2011-12-06T13:37:00.000-08:00

Getting tired of hearing about Coco & Breezy? Well sorry, readers, the news on the eyewear-designing twins just keeps coming. This week it's their personal style that gets the spotlight in this feature on Vogue Italia's website, showing Fall 2011 runway looks that complement their unique style.

[Via Vogue.it]

Vogue's Fiorella Ruth Kibongui says:

"It’s not easy to tell them apart, but they’re style is always recognizable. The twins, designers of the futuristic sunglasses Beyoncé loves, confirm once again their street nature with two eclectic outfits for a New York event. They represent, in fact, that style free from catwalk rules, rich with cultural, underground and pop influences that has always been the inspiration for many designers. Bomber jackets, graphic prints, original details and non-conventional mixes thus move from the streets to the prêt-a-porter." Couldn't have said it better myself. View the slideshow of looks here.

Local jewelry designer Emily Johnson finalist in national jewelry competition

2011-12-06T10:50:00.000-08:00

Local jewelry designer Emily Johnson just took home honors for being one of the finalists in the 2012 NICHE Awards. Sponsored by NICHE magazine, the NICHE Awards program began in 1989 to celebrate excellence and innovation in American and Canadian fine craft. Johnson was selected from more than 1100 entries in nearly 40 categories covering a variety of mediums, both functional and decorative designs. The finalists will be on display at the 2012 winter Buyers Market, February 18 through 20, in Philadelphia, Pa., where they will be seen by hundreds of buyers from retail stores, galleries and museum stores, and the award Winners will be announced at a ceremony taking place during the Buyers Market on Saturday, February 18, 2012.

Lady Gaga wears Coco & Breezy sunglasses in "Marry the Night" video

2011-12-05T17:50:00.000-08:00

Minnesota-born eyewear designers Coco and Breezy have already had their sunglasses worn by the likes of Kelly Osbourne, Ashanti, Nicki Minaj and Kelly Rowland. Now, they've gotten one of their most high-profile placements yet - on Lady Gaga in her new "Marry the Night" video. The "Onassis" sunglasses are part of a collaboration between the twins and eyewear line Selima Optique, which features all one-of-a-kind sunglasses customized by Coco & Breezy. The sunglasses are $425 and available at selimaoptique.com.

Lady Gaga in the "Onassis" Coco & Breezy for Selima Optique sunglasses

"Onassis" sunglasses by Coco & Breezy for Selima Optique

Watch the full video below:

Local inspiration: muses and lenses

2011-12-05T10:32:00.000-08:00

Another round of muses and lenses culled from local photographers and their muses over the past couple of weeks:

Fashion designer Emma Berg previews a new design. The faux crushed fur skirt will be available this week at June Resale.

Former Minneapolitan Sarah Ditty gets canonized in paint by her boyfriend, artist David Walker.

Vision model Ashlee Walker and her boyfriend, photographer Corey Tenold, take a trip to the Smokies.

Caleb Gudmundson, Jane Belfry, Allison Jean AuBuchon and Fred Holston bring the glamour to HAUS Salon's HOTTEA opening party last weekend. (Photo: Peter Jamus. Click here for more party pix.)

The ladies of DJ trio Lady Parts (Emily Roberts Holden, Syril McNally & Susannah will make you wanna jump. (Photo: Matt Blum)

Vision model Mary Cann goes au natural in her headshot for her NYC agency, One Management.

Aspiring model Joe Anderson rocks an androgynous vibe in a test shoot by Shelly Mosman.

Serene Enloe snaps some stylish folks on the streets of Dinkytown.

Carrier Pigeon jewelry designer Lauren Neal takes her turn in front of the lens of Shelly Mosman.

Brandon Werth shoots a bridal party on the Lake Superior shores of Duluth.

Photographer/artist Sohail Akhavein trips daisies in this self portrait.

Style blogger Kitty Cotten mixes the three "P's": plaid, polka dots and pea coat.

Style blogger Chloe Ahlf is the sweetheart of the rodeo.

David Mendolia snaps a stylish student on the Washington Avenue Bridge.

Dirty Hair Halo style blogger Shannon Licari Walling pairs three winter staples - plaid, fur and denim.

Bon Iver's Justin Vernon goes shopping at St. Paul men's shop BlackBlue and goes home with a Dunderdon tweed suit, LVC 1920s chambray work shirt and a Duluth Pack money clip - "the next best thing to a shower after a weekend of hunting in northern Wisconsin," as BlackBlue's blog says.

Model and MPLSTYLE.com blogger John-Mark and fashion designer Ashley Wokasch hang out in NYC.

John-Mark pals around with Minnesota-born designers Coco & Breezy in NYC.

Former Mpls.St.Paul Magazine fashion editor (now at Martha Stewart Weddings) Melissa Colgan looks pretty in NYC.

Secrets Fashion Agency PR director Davee Ek does her best "Edie Beale in winter" impression, looking woodsy, quirky and chic in a butterfly print.

Just announced: l'etoile magazine presents "Jubilee"

2011-12-04T17:20:00.000-08:00

L'etoile magazine just announced its annual holiday bash, "Jubilee," with a batch of tantalizing promo photos starring local singer Hannah von der Hoff, who's served as the "face" of "Jubilee" for three years running, channeling Marlene Dietrich and 1940s Old Hollywood glamour. The annual event is invite-only at a secret location on December 17, but you can sign up to be on the guest list at event co-sponsor Blacklist Vintage's "Black Christmas" shopping event this Saturday, December 10; click here for the Facebook event.

Photo credits:
Photography: Stephen Stephens
Art direction: Kate Iverson
Creative Direction: Beth Hammarlund & Jahna Peloquin
Styling: Beth Hammarlund with clothing & accessories from Blacklist Vintage
Model, hair & makeup: Hannah von der Hoff

Editorial: HAUS Salon's "Spectre" fall/winter 2011 collection

2011-12-04T16:48:00.000-08:00

After last weekend's unveiling of their Fall/Winter collection, "Spectre," HAUS Salon has published the photos online. (I posted a preview of some of the images in an earlier post.) Inspired by Alexander McQueen, the images tell a haunting, ethereal, ghostly story with luscious textures and cool, modern lines. It also doubles as a lookbook for local designer Emma Berg's Spring 2012 collection, which debuted at last August's Boys & Girls Club of Minneapolis benefit fashion show, "Dress Rehearsal." (Click here for a review and photos of the show by l'étoile.)

The salon also posted a great little behind-the-scenes video with commentary from HAUS co-owner and creative director Charlie Brackney. It's all the more proof of why HAUS is a step above almost any salon in the Twin Cities.

Spectre Video from Stuart Lyle on Vimeo.

Photos: Stephanie Rau
Fashions: Emma Berg Spring 2012 Collection
Styling: HAUS Salon
Models: Olivia, Ash & Mary from Vision Management Group
HAUS Salon is located at 4240 Nicollet Avenue South, Minneapolis, 612-827-4287, www.haussalon.com

Editorial: "Holiday Sparkle": Vita.mn Holiday Fashion 2011

2011-12-01T15:00:00.000-08:00

My holiday fashion cover story is out today in Vita.mn, available in print and online. Check it out:

View a stop motion behind-the-scenes video of the shoot here and more behind the scenes photos here.

Vita.mn trend spread: "Out of the Woods"

2011-12-01T13:22:00.000-08:00

Check out my fashion trend spread on Scandinavian style in this week's issue of Vita.mn:

Editorial: Kevin Kramp in The Fashion Birdcage

2011-12-01T10:32:00.000-08:00

Local knitwear designer Kevin Kramp just got his first feature in an Australian magazine The Fashion Birdcage. The images come from a shoot of Dearling Physique's Domino Davis and Matt Vannelli, as well as Kramp's Fall/Winter 2011 collection showing during MNfashion Week this past spring featuring Vision models.

Local designers Max Lohrbach & Maritza Ramirez dip their toes into costume design

2011-11-30T09:15:00.000-08:00

Two local designers are turning their eye from fashion to theatrical design for the upcoming Alan Berks & Company theater joint production, How to Cheat. Maritza Ramirez and Max Lohrbach have shared some preview images of their costumes for the show, which runs December 1 through 10 at Gremlin Theatre, 2400 University Avenue West in St. Paul.

[All photos by Aaron Fenster]

Check out l'étoile's Guide to Holiday Shopping

2011-11-29T19:29:00.000-08:00

L'étoile's weekly shopping guide, which I edit, is now online, and it's chock full of holiday shopping events. Check it out now.

Christopher Straub gets national press for his maurices line

2011-11-29T19:26:00.000-08:00

The national press barrage for Christopher Straub's line for maurices has officially begun. Here is his "Waterfall" sequin clutch featured in December's issue of Seventeen:

I've gotta say, it would make a great addition to a holiday party ensemble.

Hot off the presses: Coco & Breezy in French Glamour

2011-11-29T16:15:00.000-08:00

Check out Minnesota-born eyewear designers Coco & Breezy in the December issue of French Glamour:

Editorial: "All Tied Up in Knots"

2011-11-29T10:30:00.000-08:00

Local photographer Eliesa Johnson's new hair-centric editorial showcases some of the prettiest-with-an-edge hair of the season, on Ignite models Caroline and Alexandria.

All photos: Eliesa Johnson/Photogen Inc.
Hair/Makeup – Amber Brenke
Talent – Caroline and Alexandria from Ignite Models Inc.

Just announced: "The Wardrobe of Wonder," a fashionable Art Shanty

2011-11-29T08:15:00.000-08:00

One of the Twin Cities' great winter traditions is the annual Art Shanty Projects, a series of themed ice houses for the artistically inclined taking place during the months of January and February. After a one year hiatus, it's back and bigger than ever. One new addition will be a fashion-themed shanty helmed by local designers Danielle Everine, Rachel Blomgren, Lela Horst Baumann and others. Everine tells me that shanty guests will have the chance to try on hardy knits and coats by the designers and take a photo in a photobooth. It will all culminate at the end of the run of the shanties with a full runway show with real models. The Art Shanty Project runs January 14 through February 5, 2012. Designers interested in participating can enter via an open call until December 20. Get a submission form via theesashayshantay@gmail.com; more info is posted below. Visit www.artshantyprojects.org for more information on Art Shanty Projects.

Editorial: "Minnesota Style in a New York Fashion"

2011-11-28T14:00:00.000-08:00

We all know that many of the Twin Cities' brightest head to the bright lights of New York City to make their mark. But we say once a Minnesotan, always a Minnesotan. Minneapolis-via-New York style blog MPLSTYLE.com went out and spotlighted the most stylish of this group of photographers, art directors, stylists, and magazine editors for this editorial, "Minnesota Style in a New York Fashion," and you're sure to recognize some names, like former local fashion designers Ashley Wokasch (Calpurnia Peach), Niki English, and Coco and Breezy, and photographers Benjamin Fredrickson and Brad Ogbonna (regulars in my muses and lenses feature).

Photography by Drew Krason
Interviews by John-Mark

A NELLE Holiday Launch, Holiday Event & Cyber Monday Sale

2011-11-28T13:54:00.000-08:00

Lots of big news in from local handbag designer Laura Nelli this weekend. The designer of NELLE handbags has announced a just-launched collaboration line of silk, screen-printed holiday skirts and clutches with textile designer Luci Kandler (who you may remember from Calpurnia Peach), called NELLE + OGGE. The print collection was inspired by the designers' shared appreciation for Frida Kahlo’s irreverent personal style. Priced from $150 to $190, the limited-edition collection can be found online at nellehandbags.com, ogge.bigcartel.com, or in-store at l’atelier couture (l’atelier couture, 219 N Second Street, Suite 404, Minneapolis, 651-602-9492 (appointments required), lateliercouturebridal.com) & Details Style Lab (Details Style Lab: 346 St. Peter Street, St. Paul, 651-251-8700, www.detailsmn.com).

[A NELLE + OGGE clutch]

What's more: on Monday, November 28, NELLE will host a Cyber Monday Sale at nellehandbags.com, offering 20% off plus free shipping on the entire NELLE Collection. And finally, December 1 marks the kick off of the NELLE & HAROLD Holiday Event at l'atelier couture. The month-long cash-and-carry event features NELLE's holiday assortment of handmade clutches and accessories.

Line review: Christopher Straub for maurices

2011-11-28T10:00:00.000-08:00

Christopher Straub's line for maurices hit stores and maurices.com over the weekend. Let's take a look at the results, shall we? (And while you're at it, check out my updated review of his namesake collection that he debuted on the runway a couple of weeks ago with photos of each look.)

Apex Faux Fur Cropped Jacket, $89

Metallic Floral Print Tank, $26

One Shoulder Floral Print Top, $29

Shadow Stripe Top with Petal Detail, $32

Petal Print Party Dress, $59

Floral One Shoulder Dress, $59

Floral Textured Party Dress, $79

Floral Back Pocket Jeggings, $39

Viper Textured Signature Satchel, $34; Viper Textured Key Coin Purse, $12

Viper Pieces Wristlet, $15

Sequin Waterfall Hardshell Clutch in Red & Black, $24

3D Floral Scarf in Black & Red, $14

Smoky Gem Pendant Cluster Necklace, $16; Multi Chain Beaded Drape Necklace, $20

Smoky Gem Beaded Stretch Bracelet with Tassel, $14; Multi Stone Filigree Cuff, $18; Multi Chain Stretch Bracelet, $20

Wire Bead Hoop Earrings, $14, Multi Stone Filigree Chandelier Earrings, $16; Smoky Teardrop Gem and Rhinestone Earrings, $16

Smoky Teardrop Gem Stretch Ring, $12; Smoky Acrylic Flower Stretch Ring, $12

Holiday Plush Puppy, $6

From the looks of it, maurices and Straub seem like a perfect match. The designer has, unsurpringly, taken his more commercial, mass-friendly silhouettes into the collection and capitalized on his girly-rocker aesthetic - snakeskin prints, baroque chain jewelry, ruffles and his trademark petals. The fabrics on the red, one-shoulder dress and top are a bit cheap-looking (typical for cheap-chic collaboration lines), but the petal print dress and black ruffle dress are pretty cute. As for the accessories, the petal scarves are pretty unique and fun, and though much of the jewelry is fairly generic-looking, the beaded bracelet with the tassel is pretty great. And his bags have been one of his biggest sellers for his namesake line, and these are pretty good interpretations of those. And the waterfall sequin case clutches are pretty cute. But does the world really need another pair of jeggings?

It must be said that this collaboration is a pretty big deal for any designer, let alone a Project Runway alum. The opportunity to get your name, face and designs in 800 stores of a major retail chain is a rarity for an emerging designer. (Only 80 locations are carrying the full line, while the other 720 stores will carry his accessories and fragrance, with prices ranging from $12 to $89.) Come to think of it, the only past Project Runway designer to achieve this level of partnership is season four winner Christian Siriano, who has had collaborations with Payless, Victoria's Secret, and Bluefly. If Straub wasn't already a household name, he's about to be.

Local gift ideas from Vita.mn

2011-11-27T23:16:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday, Vita.mn published its annual gift guide, put together by Christy DeSmith. It features all kinds of local gift ideas from Twin Cities denizens like event producer Vilay Dethluxay (who spotlights jewelry line Stephanie Lake Design, pictured below), ROX Jewelry designer Robyne Robinson, musician and writer Dessa, artist Amy Rice, and more. Check it out.

[Photo: Tom Sweeney]

Local inspiration: muses and lenses

2011-11-26T10:30:00.000-08:00

Another round of local fashion muses and fashion photography via Facebook uploads and the blogroll - a little taste of local inspiration.

Graphic designer Eric Timothy Carlson snaps an arty pic of girlfriend and collaborator, fashion designer Annie Larson.

Photographer Benjamin Fredrickson lounges for a self portrait.

Photographer Amy Gee shows off a thrift find and her new creepers. (Click here for more photos.

Photographer Stephanie Hynes does the lookbook for local designer Gina Marie Vintage's Fall 2011 line with Vision model Elle Williams. (Hair & makeup: Bethany Brihn. Styling: Jane Belfry. Click here for the full lookbook.)

Wardrobe stylist Hollie Mae Schultz goes abstract in a scene shot by photographer Serah Sauser. (Hair & makeup: Kate Erickson)

Wardrobe stylist Hollie Mae Schultz goes face up. (Photo: Serah Sauser. Hair & makeup: Kate Erickson)

Interactive producer/mplsart.com co-director Kristoffer Knutson has a quiet moment.

Ignite model Kara looks like she just stepped out of an '80s music video. (Photo: Billy Rood.)

Style blogger Chloe Ahlf gets her '90s grunge on.

It's all in the details for style blogger Shannon Licari Walling.

Style blogger Shannon Licari Walling dresses up her friend Whitney.

Photographer Sara Kiesling shoots some comp card shots for Ignite model Berit Birkeland.

Photographer Brandon Werth does a whimsical wedding test shoot featuring an Emma Berg dress and Stephanie Lake Jewelry. (Production & Styling by Chelsea Paul. Click here for the full photo set.)

Photographer Sohail Akhavein gets ritualistic.

Serene Enloe gets her goth girl on.

Eyewear designers Coco & Breezy go for a ride.

Ellen Moodie gets animated in the Playatta photobooth at the RECESS dance night.

Fashion link roundup

2011-11-25T13:50:00.000-08:00

A smattering of local fashion news from the Twin Cities and beyond.

[Photo: Mary O'Regan/Art of Wore]

Mary O'Regan does a studio visit with local knitwear designer Kevin Kramp, and it includes a really cool video of the designer in action with his knitting machine.

Local line K.Jurek Couture's "The Galaxy Next Door" skirt is now available on ModCloth.com.

Elizabeth Dehn of Beauty Bets gets interviewed by (and lands the cover of) Twin Cities-based publication HerLife.

Minnesota-based knitwear designer Kevin Kramp has been featured in Spain's We Are Selecters.

BRAVE Magazine does a Q&A with eyewear designers Coco & Breezy.

Plymouth Magazine interviews local designer Adrienne Yancy of ArielSimone.

Amy Gee shoots Monday night's Joynoelle fashion show. Beth Hammarlund of l'étoile reviews the Joynoelle fashion show, as does Mary O'Regan of METRO and Allison Kaplan of Mpls.St.Paul Magazine. Check out my review for Vita.mn here.

Beth Hammarlund of l'étoile reviews the Christopher Straub show, and so does METRO's Mary O'Regan. I review the show for Vita.mn. Good Morning Northland interviews Straub on his new collection for maurices.

Nancy Ngo of Pioneer Press catches up with Project Runway designers Christopher Straub and Danielle Everine.

Arts and style writer Joan Erakit interviews METRO Magazine's Mary O'Regan.

E-retailer Of a Kind does a studio tour of former Minneapolis designer Annie Larson's new Brooklyn pad and talks to her about the creative process leading up to her recent Jerome grant project, and Birchbox blog asks Annie how she keeps her super-long hair in check.

Gregory J. Scott's Q&A with fashion designer and arts curator Emma Berg for last week's Vita.mn cover stories on the Twin Cities' most influential people from the past five years.

Check out a new interview with ROX Jewelry designer Robyne Robinson by Harlem's Fashion Row.

"Carnival Chic": Photos from Vita.mn Vth Anniversary fashion shows

2011-11-23T15:24:00.001-08:00

Last Friday, I styled two mini fashion shows for the Vita.mn Vth Anniversary Fashion Show. The event itself had a "carnival chic" theme, so taking a cue from that, I styled Vision models in circus and carnival-inspired looks using some of the Twin Cities top local designers including Danielle Everine, Joynoelle, Max Lohrbach, Ivan Idland, and Kevin Kramp, with Vita.mn honoree Emma Berg getting her own segment of looks. Accessories were provided by local designers Stephanie Lake Design (jewelry) and Ruby3 (hats), plus Lula Vintage Wear and Twin Cities Magic & Costume. Emcee Nadine DuBois of Lili's Burlesque wore a dress and bolero by local line Blasphemina's Closet.

"Harlequin, Jesters & Mimes"
Photo: John Behm for Vita.mn
Fashions by Max Lohrbach, Kevin Kramp, Joynoelle (L-R), accessories from Twin Cities Magic & Costume, Ruby3, Lula Vintage Wear.
Models from Vision Management Group.
Hair & makeup: Jungle Red Salon.

"Lion Tamer & Lion, Mimes, Harlequin & Jesters"
Photo: Peter Holme Photography
Fashions by Ivan Idland, Joynoelle, Kevin Kramp & Max Lohrbach; accessories from Ruby3, Lula Vintage Wear, Twin Cities Magic & Costume, Stephanie Lake Design.

"Tightrope Walker, Lion Tamer & Lion with Mimes"
Photo: Peter Holme Photography
Fashions by Danielle Everine (foreground), Ivan Idland, Joynoelle, Kevin Kramp & Max Lohrbach; accessories from Ruby3, Lula Vintage Wear, Twin Cities Magic & Costume, Stephanie Lake Design.

"Mime #2"
Photo: John Behm for Vita.mn
Fashions by Joynoelle, hat from Lula Vintage Wear, gloves from Twin Cities Magic & Costume.
Model: Ladonna for Vision Management Group.

"Mime #2"
Photo: John Behm for Vita.mn
Fashions by Joynoelle, gloves by Max Lohrbach, hat from Lula Vintage Wear.
Model: Carol for Vision Management Group.

"The Circus Lion"
Photo: John Behm for Vita.mn
Fashion by Joynoelle, accessories from Lula Vintage Wear & Twin Cities Magic & Costume.
Model: Ash for Vision Management Group.

"The Circus Lion"
Photo: Meredith Westin for Twin Cities Daily Planet
Fashion by Joynoelle, accessories from Lula Vintage Wear & Twin Cities Magic & Costume.
Model: Ash for Vision Management Group.

"The Court Jester"
Photo: Meredith Westin for Twin Cities Daily Planet
Fashion by Kevin Kramp, hat by Ruby3.
Model: Kyndra for Vision Management Group.

"Trapeze Girl"
Photo: John Behm for Vita.mn
Skirt & heart bra top by Max Lohrbach, headpiece by Ruby3.
Model: Elle for Vision Management Group.

"The Showgirl Descends"
Photo: Peter Holme Photography
Dress by Emma Berg, headpiece by Ruby3, jewelry by Stephanie Lake Design.
Model: Elle for Vision Management Group.

"The Showgirl"
Photo: John Behm for Vita.mn
Dress by Emma Berg, headpiece by Ruby3, necklace by Stephanie Lake Design.
Model: Elle for Vision Management Group

"Showgirls"
Photo: John Behm for Vita.mn
Fashions by Emma Berg, headpieces by Ruby3, jewelry by Stephanie Lake Design
Models: Elle & Ladonna for Vision Management Group.

"The Court Jester"
Photo: John Behm for Vita.mn
Fashion by Emma Berg, jewelry by Stephanie Lake Design, mask from Twin Cities Magic & Costume.
Model: Carol for Vision Management Group.

"The Ringleader"
Photo: John Behm for Vita.mn
Host Nadine DuBois dressed in fashions by Blasphemina's Closet and her own accessories.

Video by Corey Tenold

Photography: Peter Holme Photography, John Behm for Vita.mn & Meredith Westin for Twin Cities Daily Planet; Danielle Morris.
Models: Vision Management Group
Hair & Makeup: Jungle Red Salon
All fashion styling by Jahna Peloquin. Assistant: Danielle Morris.

Black Friday local shopping roundup

2011-11-23T14:21:00.001-08:00

I cover Black Friday shopping in this week's Vita.mn. For more Black Friday shopping, check out my weekly shopping guide for l'étoile.

My weekly fashion trend spread for Vita.mn launches

2011-11-23T14:07:00.001-08:00

Another new addition to the revamped Vita.mn is a weekly trend spread, styled by yours truly. It features looks from Nordstrom, Macy's, Cliché, Lula Vintage Wear, Opitz Outlet, and local designer Rachel Blomgren.

Here's last week's "little mod dress" themed story:

And here's this week's leather-themed spread:

My Vita.mn Q&A with Trends.com's Corey Tenold

2011-11-23T13:41:00.001-08:00

Vita.mn kicked off a new weekly Q&A column with their relaunch last week. I did this week's interview with Trnds.com style blogger, model, photographer and web developer Corey Tenold:

Sunday: Live Chat & Online Fashion Show with Christopher Straub

2011-11-16T09:24:00.000-08:00

On the eve of their upcoming collaboration launch with Christopher Straub, national retailer maurices will host a live online chat and fashion show with the Project Runway fan favorite this Sunday on maurices' Facebook page.

The clothing, accessories and fragrance line launches on maurices.com beginning on November 22, and starting Black Friday, November 25, 80 select maurices locations will carry the full line, with the other 720 stores carrying his accessories and fragrance with prices ranging from $12 to $89. Watch behind-the-scenes footage of the photoshoot for Christopher’s new line, hear him talk about his inspiration, and join in a live chat with Christopher at 7 p.m. CST.; questions will be accepted via the maurices' Facebook wall, Ustream tab, or Twitter.

Here's a preview of the line Straub posted today:

Recap: "Give Us Wings" Design Challenge

2011-11-15T22:31:00.000-08:00

A week ago, FiveTwoSix Salon held their annual Design Challenge benefiting Give Us Wings, an organization that gives African woman opportunities to create arts and crafts to be sold. Eleven local designers created a look crafted in part from African textiles, giving a traditional fabric a fresh look. Here are a few of my favorite looks of the night:

[Look by Susan Timm]

[Look by Jenny Carle]

[Look by Emma Berg]

And just because it's cute...Emma with her model, Ladonna:

Click here for more photos by Stephen Stephens/Digital Crush Photo.

Friday: Vita.mn Vth Anniversary Fashion Show

2011-11-15T21:25:00.000-08:00

Vita.mn is celebrating five years of Twin Cities arts, fashion, music and food with its five-year anniversary bash this Friday at Epic Nightclub. I'll be styling a two-part "carnival chic" inspired fashion show featuring local designers Emma Berg, Danielle Everine, Max Lohrbach, Ivan Idland, Joynoelle, Ruby3, and Blasphemina's Closet, plus extras from Lula Vintage Wear and Twin Cities Magic & Costume, with hair and makeup by Jungle Red Salon and models from Vision Management Group.

[A look by Emma Berg. Photo: Emily Utne]

Plus you can expect live music from the Hold Steady, Night Moves, No Bird Sing and a special guest, art curated by Emma Berg (pictured), and tunes from DJ Jake Rudh.

Tickets: $25, going fast, and available at Electric Fetus and online here.

When: 7 p.m. Friday, November 18.
Where: Epic, 510 1st Avenue N, Minneapolis, vita.mn

Local inspiration: muses and lenses

2011-11-15T14:33:00.000-08:00

The last two weeks in inspiration from local photographers and their muses.

METRO's Mary O'Regan does a studio visit with local designer Joy Teiken. Click here for more photos on Art of Wore.

Photographer Vincent Marcinelli previews a piece from next weekend's MCAD Art Sale.

Peter Holme snaps a model paused along a well-trodden path.

Grand Forks-based photographer Emma Katka shoots local model Kouwai Potocnik.

Maxamillion Gremillion takes in a sunbeam.

Style and arts writer Joan Erakit mixes ladylike sophistication with a dash of cunning in a series of photos styled by Secrets Fashion Agency. (Photo: Sam Nong and Dan Worku)

Model/musician Tearra Rosario gets shot by Shelby Tanner on Jacksonville Beach.

The Minneapoline's Ellen Dahl Lawson spots fall's minimalism trend paired with maximalism on the street.

Brandon Werth shoots Becca Cooke for a test shoot over the weekend.

Alexander Erickson of Ignite Models gets wet for Fucking Young Magazine. Click here for more photos. (Photographer: Michael McCloud. Makeup: Crystal Watkins)

Urban Tease personal style blogger Chloe Ahlf gets cuddly with her pug.

Local artist Jaime Carrera snaps a shot of designer Max Lohrbach's hand-painted pillowcase for Friday's Movember art show and benefit.

Musician Rachel Palmer shows off her fall layers.

Peter Holme snaps the guest of honor giving thumbs up to Christopher Straub's models at Sunday's runway show.

In review: Joynoelle's "The Caged Bird" Spring 2012 Collection

2011-11-15T11:38:00.000-08:00

The Grand Cafe was the site of the Joynoelle fashion show on Monday night, having been transformed into a turn-of-the-century parlor, its wood floors serving as an unusual runway for the debut of the local line's Spring 2012 collection. But that's Joy Teiken for you - a bit quirky, yet timeless and sophisticated, like the charming South Minneapolis cafe itself. The longtime Twin Cities designer isn't about making a big bang or having mainstream commercial appeal, which is precisely why the show was invite-only and unticketed. This is evident in her custom, handmade ready-to-wear and bridal collections, which are all crafted in the designer's nearby studio and atelier. For her latest collection, Teiken took inspiration from "the caged bird," incorporating criss-cross shapes, stripes, feathers, and a rich palette of red, brown and cream. Each piece offered thoughtful details, delicate fabrics, and inventive fabric manipulation, staying true to the designer's confectionary, vintage-inspired aesthetic that has made the line a local treasure. Why fix what ain't broke, after all?

[Photos by Jahna Peloquin]

Local designer Kathryn V. launches web shop

2011-11-14T12:42:00.000-08:00

Local designer Kathryn Sterner just launched a web shop for her namesake line Kathryn V (a regular at Voltage and Envision fashion shows). It's part of UsTrendy.com's Indie Marketplace, which allows independent designers to sell their wares in a unified front. Want to support brick-and-mortar instead? The designer's line is still carried locally at Cliché.

A few of the looks available:

Launching Sunday: SHIP&SHAPE

2011-11-14T12:17:00.000-08:00

In the increasingly viable world of e-retailing, more and more local designers and entrepreneurs are abandoning traditional brick-and-mortar for something with a bit further reach. One could count the success of (former) Minneapolis knitwear designer Annie Larson, who landed features in national magazines and an exclusive collection for Madewell on the strength of her e-shop. Now, her longtime pals Erin Smith (of SISBRO Design), Annika Kaplan and Maddy Nye (of MN&Co) are joining forces to open their own e-shop, SHIP&SHAPE. The e-shop will have a focus on limited edition handmade goods from themselves and 15 of their crafty friends, including Larson and Voltage 2010 standout Rachel Blomgren, with quarterly collections launching every season. The store launches with "Ornamento," a pop-up shop on Sunday at Honeycomb Salon (Noon-4 p.m. 3504 Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis.)

The shop owners shared with me some preview images of their holiday 2011 collection to get your appetite going:

Editorial: "An Ode to Autumn"

2011-11-14T00:30:00.000-08:00

An ode to autumn, courtesy of local photographer Stephanie Hynes, stylist Alison Hoekstra, and hair stylist and makeup artist Bethany Brihn:

In review: Christopher Straub Spring 2012 Collection

2011-11-13T18:00:00.001-08:00

Two days after fellow Project Runway alum Danielle Everine held her own fashion show, Christopher Straub debuted his Spring 2012 collection Sunday afternoon at the Westin Galleria hotel. The show doubled as a benefit for the Child Neurology Foundation, of which Straub has been a longtime supporter, and opened with a couple of acoustic tunes from recent The Voice contestant Tim Mahoney.

Straub's 21-look line was, by all accounts, Straub's most sophisticated and focused collection to date, full of colorful prints - the designer's own designs - structured designs, and fluid silhouettes, showing the designer moving into a slightly edgier direction. Though making a few cameo appearances in his handbags, his signature "petals" were otherwise absent, replaced by a trio of spikey, black patent leather looks that seemed at odds with the rest of the otherwise cohesive collection. Straub's digital prints - though clearly influenced by Alexander McQueen's "Plato's Atlantis" from Spring 2010 - added a welcome shot of color and texture into the proceedings, most successfully in a black-and-white print tailored jacket and a floor-length gown. His draped, one-shoulder swirl-print dress offered an understated chicness, as did a flippy little dress with flounced sleeves. For the most part, he worked well with a stiff, white snakeskin print fabric, particularly in a safari-like jacket, ruffle-front top and the evening's wow moment, a full-length gown. The designer also made a small but welcome foray in knits.

At times, though, Straub struggled with proportion - a nearly gynecological ruffled skirt was paired with a barely-there one-shouldered top - and relied too heavily on the prints to hold up an otherwise basic design. Straub also tends to struggle with styling, as in his pairing of tailored jackets with leggings, brings down the sophistication level a few notches, as well as fabric selection, which too often look inexpensive. Overall, though, there was a lot to like here - some well-tailored basics-with-a-twist coupled with a few bold moments that showed Straub pushing himself forward as a designer.

[Review originally published in Vita.mn. Images by Kevin Ophoven]

More reviews: Click here for a review by Beth Hammarlund for l'étoile with photos by Peter Holme Photography. Click here for a review and photos by Mary O'Regan of METRO Magazine.

In review: "Call Me Ishmael" Danielle Everine Fall 2011 Capsule Collection

2011-11-12T12:46:00.000-08:00

After being introduced to the world on season nine of Project Runway, local designer Danielle Everine has made it clear that she's staying true to her roots. Instead of doing a big blowout show with tons of publicity, she opted for an intimate, in-store showing last night at Cliché, where she's sold her line since she debuted on the Voltage runway in spring 2010.

But Everine's fans, friends and family packed into the store nonetheless to see what the designer has been up to in the short time she's been back from taping the fashion design competition. While she showed a mere six looks, the collection was an ambitious one nonetheless, taking inspiration from an adventurous life at sea, as evidenced by turn-of-the-century novels like Moby-Dick. Each look was equal parts soft and languid (like the sea itself) and tough and utilitarian (as life on the sea often would force one to be). Dresses contained screen-prints of custom illustrations by local artist (and Yeti Records co-owner) Lisa Luck, and leather detailed Everine's outerwear, where she excels most.

The show also served to debut her own laser-etched leather handbags. By the end of the night, many one-off pieces found their way into the hands of shoppers, but the designer said she would be taking custom orders on the pieces shown (at www.danielleeverine.com) and be adding additional pieces to the collection at Cliché in the coming months.

[Danielle Everine and me]

Click here for more photos by Corey Tenold, and here for my recent interview with Everine for l'étoile.

My interviews with Danielle Everine & Christopher Straub of "Project Runway"

2011-11-09T16:27:00.001-08:00

Check out my interview with Project Runway's Danielle Everine and Christopher Straub for l'étoile:

Calling all Project Runway fans: Two of the design competition's local contestants are showing their latest collections in two separate fashion shows this weekend: Danielle Everine on Friday, and Christopher Straub on Sunday.

After having made her mark in the local scene with last fall's MNfashion-produced runway show "Pale Rider" and making two appearances in Voltage: Fashion Amplified, Danielle Everine made it onto the profile-raising Project Runway, making her one of the most recognizable names in Twin Cities fashion. The busy designer gives us a peek at what's next for her with an intimate, in-store fashion show this Friday at Cliché featuring her abbreviated fall 2011 collection inspired by the sea, "Call Me Ishmael."

[Danielle Everine. Photo: Sara Kiesling]

l'étoile: For the show, you're collaborating with illustrator Lisa Luck on custom screenprints (who we worked with on a paper dolls-inspired spread last April). How did you and Lisa get hooked up?

Danielle: Lisa is an incredible illustrator. She drew the beautiful imagery for the Pale Rider lookbook and promotional material. We had been hoping to work on another project together. When I started to design this collection, she immediately came to mind.

Head over to l'étoile for the full interviews.