Charleston Fashion Week Blog

CFW paparazzi shots!

CFW — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 19:17:02 +0000

Check out some of the hottest photos of Charleston Fashion Week on Snapfish.com. Click on “view slideshow” after clicking this address:

http://www2.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=221975027/a=127167645_127167645/t_=127167645

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See You on the CFW Red Carpet (03/29/2008)

CFW — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 20:41:24 +0000

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Well fashionistas, tonight was the final night of Charleston Fashion Week 2008, and if I do say so myself… It was absolutely fabulous!Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Style editor Ayoka Lucas and her son enjoy the final shows of CFW from the front row on Saturday night. Photo: Brandy GwynThere was a slight delay in the beginning, as the Mary Mojo show was pushed back from 4:10 to 4:30, but no one really seemed to mind. Guests casually strolled around the tent, sipping champagne and mingling with one another. When the show finally did begin, the Mary Mojo models seemed to immediately breathe life into the show, as they danced in front of the runway screen before cascading out onto the catwalk. Some of the models even stopped at the base of the runway in their flirty, colorful dresses to blow kisses to the photogs. From my perch in the Red Bull VIP lounge, it was obvious that the audience was loving the show, as guests could be seen whispering to one another and smiling while others bobbed their heads to the upbeat music. Everything about the collection was classy, chic, and fun.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Models in the Mary Norton show display their lovely handbags backstage. Photo: Brandy Gwyn Another notable show was Finicky Filly, which included a lot of fun Tori Burch garments and accessories, as well as other designer cocktail dresses and casual wear. One on-looker even noted, “It should be called Funky & Fresh,” while another couldn’t contain her desire for an over sized Tori Burch tote.”I HAVE to have that bag!” she exclaimed. In fact, a designer bag was incorporated into every look during the show, which really portrayed the boutique’s fashionable versatility.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1A Gwynn’s model gracefully glides off the runway. Photo: Brandy GwynUp next was the Gwynn’s show, which, like the store itself, featured a variety of fun, ready to wear ensembles. I don’t know about you, but every time I go into Gwynn’s, it’s like entering a candy store. Everything from their designer shoes to the jewelry to the dresses is enough to make any gal’s mouth water. The show itself offered a delicious slice of the store, as it featured an array of beautiful Marc Bouwer gowns—perfect for walking the red carpet later in the evening! There were also tropical luxe creations by Letarte, embroidered straw hats by Tracy Watts, and flirty cocktail designs by Hollywood favorite, Catherine Malandrino. All in all, I have to say, my Mount Pleasant candy store really rocked the runway.Also during the show, I was approached by Foster Fox and noticed that he was wearing a totally different shirt that he’d worn to the show. He immediately informed me that he’d sold his other shirt (the white tee with the green dollar bill on it from his ELD show) to some random person in the audience for $160. He’d then gone to the merchandise tent and picked up a black CFW t-shirt to wear under his sport coat. Apparently, a few of the designers were either wearing a design from their ELD collection (or had passed a garment along to a CFW committee member or model) to market themselves! I have to say, that was rather creative way to show off their collection after the show.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Jillian Lewis from Project Runway (center) chats with Fashion Week volunteer Kari Kaldon (left) and Foster Fox (right) in his newly bought CFW shirt at the Finale Gala. Photo: Russell DouglasAfter the last show, it was off to the Red Carpet Finale Gala! And the spread inside the was definitely worthy of a red carpet. Neon orange, green, and purple lights illuminated the sides of the tents; delicious cocktails and hors dourves were passed around by the dozens; large tropical plants added South Pacific glitz; glamorous people toasted champagne flutes and mingled with models; and couples gathered on the dance floor to dance the night away.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Celebrity guest emcee Finesse Mitchell parties with Stella Nova make up artist Shay St. Clair party at the final gala. Photo: Russell Douglas And the USC dancers took over the dance floor at one point with their dazzling performance number (which, by the way, was performed in stilettos by most of the dancers!). They absolutely rocked the house, as crowds of gala guests crowded around to watch them.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1The USC dancers show off their awesome skills during the CFW finale gala: Photo: Brandy GwynAnd of course, the amazingly beautiful Jillian Lewis was in attendance and took time to talk to everyone possible. She was such an amazing guest, and we are so thankful she was there!Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1CFW staffer Misty Lister (left) parties with Project Runway’ Jillian Lewis (center) and Kari Kaldon (right) at the gala. Photo: Brandy GwySo thus concludes my coverage of the fabulous Charleston Fashion Week 2008. I hope you enjoyed reading about it as much as I enjoyed writing about it! Special thanks to all the hard-working CFW staff, photographers, Charleston magazine, and of course, my CFW side kick and photographer, Ellie Somerville. This was such an incredible experience, and I truly hope to see you all under the tents for CFW 2009!Cheers to all,Russell H. Douglas P.S. And just a side note… I’m a girl.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Me (Russell Douglas) and Ellie Somerville (She’s the best!) doing our jobs through more than 20 fashion shows and five nights of CFW. Photo: Molly Maguth

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Here Come the (Couture) Brides!

CFW — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 19:54:53 +0000

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Under the tent on Saturday morning, I was immediately taken aback by the calmer, more pastel atmosphere.

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A lovely gown from Gown Boutique of Charleston appeared in the Bridal Couture show on Saturday morning. Photo: Ellie Somerville

Two beautiful ribbon chandeliers hung over the runway where the large disco balls once were; young children dressed in their Sunday best frolicked around in the former Red Bull VIP lounge; a delicious array of brunch delights from Carolina Catering were spread across linen-covered tables at the back of the tents; and ladies sipping mimosas chatted quietly in their seats. It was like a breath of fresh air, literally, as the beautiful breeze from outside seemed to whisp around the tents.
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Carolina Catering provided a selection of brunch favorites, including spinach casserole, shrimp & grits, hash browns, muffins, & scones. Photo: Ellie Somerville

Charleston Weddings editor Melissa Bigner hosted the four shows, which included Gown Boutique of Charleston, Copper Penny Bridal, Kate Nevin & Charleston Formal Wear at Berlin’s, and White. And the shows were just as lovely as the ambiance of the tent.

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The Bridal Couture models glide down the runway beneath the breezy ribbon-covered chandeliers. Photo: Brandy Gwyn

The Gown Boutique of Charleston show was first, and included several beautiful wedding dresses, a few bright bridesmaid dresses, and even a little blue flower girl dress. The little girl, Kyla, was the toast of the show, as she pranced down the runway carrying a little basket of flowers, her adorable little smile never dropping a bit.

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Little model Kyla with CFW staffer Ashley Brook Perryman enjoy some brunch after the show. Photo: Ellie Somerville

Later, author Shandon Fowler was introduced to the crowd and discussed his book, “The Groom’s Instruction Manual: How to Survive and Possibly Even Enjoy the Most Bewildering Ceremony Known to Man,” which was available for purchase at the front of the tent. It’s also available on amazon.com if you’d like to pick up a copy. “It’s just different these days,” he said. “In my dad’s time, the men weren’t expected to do anything. They’d just sit back and wait to say I do. But these days it’s different and men are expected to be involved, but no one tells them how to do that. That’s what my book is for!”

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Special guest Shandon Fowler autographed copies of his books during the Bridal Couture show. Photo: Ellie Somerville

And the show even included a few local designers, Jodi Moylan of White and Kate Nevin alongside tuxedos from Berlins. Both lovely ladies preseented their collections of one-of-a-kind bridal designs, which included everything from flowing, Grecian-inspired gowns to empire-waisted, bejeweled dresses.

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Jodi Moylan of White takes a walk down the runway after her beautiful, 20s-inspired show. Photo: Ellie Somerville

Now it’s time to go home and change for tonight’s final shows and the red carpet finale gala. I don’t know about you, but I think a few Red Bulls are going to come in mighty handy again tonight so we can have just as much energy as the rest of the crowd! It’s going to be a blast, so please meet me under the tents to toast the success of CFW 2008.

Cheers,

Russell H. Douglas

Bookmark to:

Thank Goodness It’s (ELD) Friday!

CFW — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 18:43:41 +0000

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“No time to talk! No time to talk!” said Foster Fox as he rushed passed news camera crews and into the main CFW tent. I hadn’t asked him anything yet, neither had the news anchors, but I wasn’t surprised. Foster, along with five other local talented designers, would be debuting their Spring 2008 collections on the runway within an hour. Needless to say, tensions were high in Marion Square last night, and I was loving every minute of it.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Charleston magazine staffers Lindsay Williams, Christy Ruthsatz, Lauren Shoffner, and Haley Crow hang out in the Red Bull VIP lounge before the ELD shows. Photo: Ellie Somerville While everyone backstage was in a frantic frenzy to get ready, I was hell bent on meeting and greeting our celebrity guest Jillian Lewis from Project Runway before the show. I knew she was going to be sitting on the front row, and if you’ve been under the tents this week, you know that the front row is NOT an easy place to access. The beautiful, svelte brunette was mingling with CFW staffer Julie Montgomery outside the tent, so I considered it the perfect time to introduce myself. (Or actually, it was Ellie’s idea to walk over there… I just tagged along and tried to play it cool.) After ranking third on the hit TV show, you’d think Jillian would be a total diva, but actually, she was the complete opposite.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1CFW staffer Julie Montgomery (left) meets Jillian Lewis (center) from this season of Project Runway before the Friday fashion shows begin. Photo: Ellie Somerville“Oh my gosh, we loved you on that show,” I said coyly. “I totally think you should’ve won.” (As I waited in trepid anticipation for her response to my stupid remark, I got a chance to really get a close look at her. Her porcelain skin, those crystal blue eyes, and her dark brown curls… she was the epitomy of style. Clad in a little pink dress and black fishnets, I swear she could pass for one of the models.) All of sudden, she responded. “Well, thank you. I think I did pretty well, though.” Nodding my head in agreement, I turned to face the girl taking our picture. Smiling–and starstruck–I couldn’t get over the fact that we were taking a picture with Jillian Lewis. How cool is that?Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1ELD designer Foster Fox, style editor Ayoka Lucas, and Project Runway’s Jillian Lewis hang out backstage between shows. Photo: Ellie SomervilleAfter my photo shoot with Jillian (oh yeah, I’m name dropping again because she’s a fashion rockstar) I heard the first “please take your seats” announcement and headed into the tent. I wanted to make sure I had a good standing spot because these shows were going to be the sensation of fashion week.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Charleston editor in chief Darcy Shankland, Charleston Home editor, Ellen McGauley, and Charleston Weddings editor Melissa Bigner hang out in the Red Bull VIP lounge between shows. However, others obviously felt the same way, as the masses of attendees crowded in tightly around the corners of the tent, leaving little room to move–let alone see the runway. Squishing my way to the semi-front of the crowd, I grabbed my notepad just as the lights dimmed and the huge CFW screens illuminated. Taking a deep breath, I prepared myself for the event of the week. The emerging local designer’s show was finally here!Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1The tents were packed for the ELD shows. Photo: Ellie SomervilleAshley Reid’s “Ballet Tribe” collection was first, which she explained was inspired by a building that she saw in North Charleston. I didn’t get the name of the building, but I remember wishing they’d shown a picture of it before the show so we could see the relationship between the clothes and the inspiration. Regardless, the show rocked. Slender models donning flowy tops, racer back tanks, and graphic prints filed down the runway to the upbeat, remixed tribal music.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1A model cascades down the runway donning a beautiful dress and elaborate make up during the Ashley Reid show. Photo: Ellie SomervilleI found myself transfixed with the models’ Africa-inspired make up, which reminded me of “The Lion King” on Broadway. Each face was a visonary work of art; a sleek silver strip was painted across one model’s eyes, another appeared to have whiskers, while one other wore leopard spots. It truly accented the urban jungle vibe of the show, eliciting loud hollers from the pleased audience.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Three models from Ashley Reid’s show wore Africa-inspired make up to accent the tribal-themed clothes in the collection. Photo: Ellie SomervilleTo my right, I heard two ladies discussing the collection. “I would totally wear that,” one said. “Oh, I know right. And that make up, oh my gosh. It’s incredible. It should have it’s own show!” Overall, Reid’s show demonstrated the importance of paying attention to every detail when it comes to fashion. From the clothes to the artful make up, I knew her show would be a hard act to follow.Next up was Rachel Gordon’s lovely collection, which featured an array of flowy, dream-like dresses perfect for a flirty night on the town. Though the first low cut dress in the show caused one on-looker to say, “Does it come with two-sided tape?”, the sassy model wearing the ensemble seemed to read our minds, and lifted up her arms turning side to side at the base of the runway to prove that everything would stay in place. Another model in the show walked out wearing a large professional camera around her neck as a prop. In those towering heels, I was scared that she may go bounding off the runway at any minute, but the red-dress clad vixen made it all the way down and back, strutting her stuff and even taking a few shots of the crowd. I met up with her later backstage, and discovered that her name was Diana Deaver and she’d been in the media pit as a photographer all week long. No wonder she was able to keep her balance while toting a huge Nikon in platforms!Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Model and photographer Diana Deaver works the runway during the Rachel Gordon show. Photo: Ellie SomervilleOther than the chick with the camera—who I hoped wouldn’t plunge into the crowd with that huge camera around her neck!—the Rachel Gordon show was definitely a crowd pleaser. I asked around later, and CFW staffer Molly Maguth told me how much she’d loved the show. “Everyone was saying how it was so on trend with the long dresses, reversible pieces, and differently patterned fabrics,” she said. “I would wear everything in that collection!”Between shows, Lacoste CEO Bob Siegel, who was also one of the judges for our emerging local designer competitions, came out on the runway to tell the crowds about their chance to win two tickets to New York Fashion Week 2009. He told audience members to register at the back of the tents, or go online to familycirclecup.com/FashionWeek. The crowd went nuts and people swarmed around the back of the tent in excitement.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Lacoste CEO Bob Siegel announces that audience members are eligible to win tickets to next year’s New York Fashion Week in Bryant Park. Photo: Ellie SomervilleThen it was time for Foster Fox to show his Spring 2008 collection, and I must say, it was just as unique, fun, and fabulous as he is. His theme was “Baccarat chic” and said he wanted to demonstrate the elegance of “high-rollers in Las Vegas…dripping with diamonds.” To the surprise of the crowd, the models pranced down the catwalk to opera music at first, which later morphed into upbeat techno music resembling “We Will Rock You.”Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Models from Foster Fox’s upbeat show get ready to take to the runways. Photo: Ellie Somerville But the music wasn’t the only shocking factor of the show. Most of the clothes, and I mean everything from tank tops, to red silk pants, to bathing suits, were emblazoned with images of Charleston magazine style editor Ayoka Lucas’ face. From her seat on the front row, Ayoka looked on in awe as the models sporting her face breezed by, often looking down at her with a wink and a smile. By the end of the show, the crowd was going nuts, and our humble style editor had tears in her eyes. So, as expected, Foster’s show really did rock the house, especially since it was the only show to include riding hats, horse crops, and images of our lovely style editor on most of the pieces.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Two pieces from Foster Fox’s show, both including pictures of Charleston magazine’s style editor, Ayoka Lucas. Photo: Ellie SomervilleRight when the first model stepped out onto the runway for Megan Waldrep’s show, I knew immediately that her style icon/inspiration had to be designer Betsey Johnson. With fun, bright colors, funky and spunky cocktail dresses, and outrageous hair styles—including one girl with bright pink hair, it soon became obvious that Miss Johnson may have a little competition. But other than the line up of amazing clothes in her collection, the models really made the show memorable as they often, skipped, danced, and even formed a conga line down the runway. It really added life to the already colorful show.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1The fun models in Megan Waldrep’s show formed a conga line on the catwalk at one point. Photo: Ellie SomervilleMembers of the audience also liked the fact that not all the models in Waldrep’s show were a size 0. “You don’t have to be 5′10” and rail thin to wear these clothes,” said on-looker Whitney Parker. “I mean, these clothes are not only really fun, they’re really wearable and good for people with realistic bodies. I love that!”Though every ELD show was amazing, no other collection got as many “Oh, I’d want that dress” or “I wonder if I can order that online” or “Oh my gosh, that’s the cutest thing ever”-s as Krista Beth Huff’s. (Or at least that was the case from where I was standing.) The collection included a lot of bright colors, avant garde hair, flirty little dresses, and most of the pieces had bows. The show was feminine, wearable, and sexy, while still remaining incredibly innovative. Miss Huff even received a standing ovation at the end of her show. I was lucky enough to meet her backstage, and she was such a Southern delight.Ending up the night was Carol Hannah Whitfield, whose collection included ethereal pieces inspired by the mixed of the architecture and organic aspects of Charleston. Most of the models almost resembled pixies, as their hair and make up often included sparkles, flowers, or leaves.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1 Models from the Carol Hannah Whitfield show goofed around backstage before the show. Photo: Russell DouglasBut it was one dress in particular, a long, flowing teal frock, seemed to be the premiere piece in the show and a real hit with the audience. One girl was even overheard saying, “That is the most beautiful dress I’ve seen all night.”Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1A model in the Carol Hannah Whitfield show really impressed on-lookers in this flowy, teal gown. Photo: Ellie SomervilleAfter the final model disappeared off the runway and the lights under the tent came up, a loud uproar resounded backstage as the ELD designers toasted the success of their evening with flutes of champagne. To their surprise, they were asked back out on the runway by Ayoka, and all pranced out and waved to the screaming crowd, taking bows and waving. It was truly a wonderful sight from my perch backstage, as the ELDs locked arms and took great bows. A few were even crying as they toasted one another, causing many of the audience members to shoot up from their chairs and give them a standing ovation.Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1The ELDs take a bow at the conclusion of the evening. Photos: Ellie SomervilleAfter the show, everyone headed to the amazing after party at Trio, where DJ Akfool spun some awesome tunes downstairs and 60s party band Loose Chain rocked out in the upstairs bar. And even Dallas Cowboys Quarterback Tony Romo dropped by the party to celebrate the ELD success! Sadly, girlfriend Jessica Simpson wasn’t there, but hanging out with Mr. Romo the VIP was just incredible. (It may come close to meeting Jillian, but she still takes the CFW celebrity cake, of course.)Error (ERROR_PLATFORM_FAILURE)

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1Tony Romo (right) parties with a fan at the CFW afterparty at Trio.Now it’s time to get ready to walk down the aisle at tomorrow’s Bridal Couture shows, finish up CFW with a few more amazing shows at night, including Mary Norton and Copper Penny, then I’ll be strutting my stuff to the Red Carpet Finale Gala. Hope to see you all there!Cheers,Russell H. Douglas

Bookmark to:

Third Night’s The Charm!

CFW — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 19:32:20 +0000

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Yet more evidence to prove that Charleston has a thriving fashion community: During last night’s shows, it was hard to tell the models from the “real” people. It seems that each night, the attendees become more and more glamorous, wearing everything from classic little black dresses to peacock-feather accessories to patent stiletto mary janes. One on-looker in the Red Bull VIP lounge was even overheard saying, “It’s like they step off the runway and just come sit in the audience! Tomorrow night, I’m stepping it up a notch.”

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Models or real people? You decide. CFW staffers Ashley Brook Perryman and Ellie Somerville schmooze it up backstage before the shows. Photo: Russell Douglas

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Abby Seinsheimer kicks up her heels on the runway Friday night before the shows start. Photo: Ellie Somerville

The night kicked off with a hot collection from Goga. Once again, DJ Arthur Brouthers pumped up the crowd with saucy Rio-inspired tunes, which led to some definite hip-swaying from attendees watching from the VIP lounge. All the pieces were hand made by the store’s owner, Gordana Gelhausen, and for the first time (to my knowledge) audience members, including style editor Ayoka Lucas, gave a standing ovation at the end of the show. I caught up with Gordana later and she let me in on her design secret. “When I designed that last dress with the brown and pink ruffles, I had Ghana in my mind the whole time. I truly take myself to a beautiful place; it helps my design vision.”

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The final design of the Goga show, which store owner and designer Gordana Gelhausen said was inspired by visions of Ghana. Photo: Brandy Gwyn

She was also extremely flattered that the collection had received such a good reception. “It was the biggest compliment for me,” she said in her beautiful Eastern-European accent. “Ayoka told me that she actually had tears in her eyes at the end of my show; and when I saw those people standing up, it just gave me goosebumps.”

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Melina Hadzijahic, O.R. Nasseri, Goga owner Gordana Gelhausen, and Jaime Grazino toast the success of the Goga runway show in the Red Bull VIP lounge. Photo: Ellie Somerville

Then came the II Brunettes collection, filled with ready-to-wear pieces like flowy tops, graphic prints, and oversized bags. Once again, the music noticeably enticed the crowd, as some were seen mouthing the lyrics to Nelly Furtado’s “Maneater” as a model strutted down the runway. From my perch in the back of the tent, I noticed Foster Fox—one of the emerging local designers that will debut his collection during tonight’s show— intently following the models in the shows with his eyes in deep concentration. When asked what he thought of the collection, Fox simply stated, “Oh, I’m just trying to time my show for tomorrow; I have 22 models in my show, girl, and I need to know how long it’ll take them to get down [the runway] and back.” That’s Foster for you. (If you run into him tonight, ask him what his new hip adjective is. I would tell you, but revealing it in this blog might just get me fired.)

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ELD designer Foster Fox and style editor Ayoka Lucas hug it out backstage. Photo: Ellie Somerville

But I was interested in this chic new store, so I met with Leslie Lupisella and Sarah Leigh Moody, the lovely brown-haired owners of II Brunettes, and asked them about their collection. “The show went so well,” said Lupisella. “We just can’t wait for next year. Since this is our first show, we were really excited to be a part of it and promote Charleston Fashion Week.”

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Leslie Lupisella and Sarah Leigh Moody were the masterminds behind the II Brunettes runway show. Photo: Ellie Somerville

The infamous guitar introduction to Jimi Hedrix’s “Foxy Lady” resounded throughout the tent, and the Lula Kate show was off with a bang. As the models donning an array of tribal graphic prints, mod geometric skirts, and peacock-feather inspired tunics cascaded down the runway, I couldn’t help but notice how well the music playing reflected in the collection. The trippy colors and prints were mirrored in the show’s 60s musical line-up, which included songs like “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” by the Beatles. “If there was an award for matching the music to the clothes perfectly, Lula Kate would definitely win,” one on-looker said after the show. “The models even had the Bridgette Bardot hair going on. It was so Austin Powers-chic… in a good way.”

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Rehling de Roos from The Art Institute of Charleston and Clayton Brannon, a model in the ELD show on Friday, step outside for some fresh air during shows. Photo: Ellie Somerville

But the crowds really packed in tight to get a good look at the Hampden Clothing runway show, which included delicately mix and matched trendy pieces with designer eyewear. Each outfit was like something great that you’d see a model wearing in a magazine, but decide that you’d never figure to put those two things together without a stylist. (It’s like seeing those people with the cutest outfit, only to find out they got it in a bargain bin at a consignment store/why didn’t I think of that? thing.)

The Hampden models had a lot of attitude, much like the ones from Tuesday’s Biton show, which really enraptured the audience. At the end of the runway, the models posed in really cool ways; one put her pink clutch up in front of her face as if shielding herself from the photographers; another put both hands on her head in an I-have-a-migraine-chic kind of way; while another held both arms out as if asking the shutterbugs what they were looking at. It was very avant garde, Vogue magazine. The crowd—myself included—loved it! And you could tell the models were having a good time, too, as they frequently flashed their gleaming smiles mid-strut.

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The crowds watched in awe during the Hampden Clothing show, which featured an array of sassy models donning beautiful ensembles. Photo: Ellie Somerville

At one point during the Hampden show, everyone was crowded up so close that I started to get claustrophobic, so I stepped back into the VIP lounge area to ask people what they thought. Right away, I found two smiling Torch waitresses, Erin Quinn and Lindsey Middleton, who told me they loved Hampden’s show. “I like the whole glasses thing,” said Middleton. “It’s like they’re sexy and fashionable, but still business professional. And every other model is rocking the glasses; I love that.”

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Erin Quinn and Lindsey Middleton of Torch, both wearing Sucker jeans from Cose Belle, said Hampden Clothing was their favorite show of the evening. Photo: Russell Douglas

When Stacy Smallwood, owner of Hampden, walked out to wave to the crowd at the conclusion of the show, I was hoping the former prima ballerina (we’re talking the Sugar Plum Fairy, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, and more) would give a graceful curtsey to acknowledge her screaming fans. There was no curtsey and no man walking out on the runway to give her flowers, but the smile on Smallwood’s face let the eager crowd know how much she appreciated the applause.

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Stacy Smallwood, owner of Hampden Clothing, and Jane Pope, designer of Balboa and Jane Pope Collection Jewelry prepare for the Hampden Clothing show backstage. Both women were featured in the March 2008 of Vogue magazine. Photo: Ellie Somerville

As the night dwindled down, I found myself backstage drinking Red Bulls—which by the way, are absolutely delicious! I’ve never had one and wondered why Jennifer Aniston and Demi Moore swore by the things, but those little cans really do give you wings!—because I wanted to meet with the owner of Berlin’s. As an avid Berlin’s shopper, I felt the urgency to tell her how much I loved her store and her show. As models dashed around half-dressed (those quick changes are tricky!) I sat down for a moment to talk with Ellen Berlin. Someone in the audience had told me her show was “so classic,” and I wanted to know what she thought. “I like women who don’t follow the trends created by the latest pop stars,” Berlin said. “The pieces in my collection are ageless, they’re timeless. To me, that’s what style and my store is all about.” And she’s right about that. The window display at Berlin’s will make your mouth water about as much as the one at Bob Ellis Shoes. (Imagine if they were right next to one another! Sigh—one can only dream.)

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CFW staffer and model Katie Kern, Ellen Berlin, owner of Berlin’s, and model Erin Kaloupek hang out in the Stella Nova make up tent after the successful Berlin’s runway show. Photo: Russell Douglas

And once again, the CFW after party at Torch was amazing, as it included a fashion exhibit by Cary Weber and specialty Ciroc vodka drinks. DJ Moo Moo rocked the house again, mixing classic favorites with new hits.

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Charleston magazine/CFW staffers Naomi Russell (far left), Kari Kaldon (left), Misty Lister (center), and Julie Montgomery party in the VIP section of the VIP lounge at Torch. Photo: Russell Douglas

So last night’s show was definitely great, but tonight is the big event, as the six winners of Charleston magazine’s first Emerging local Design competition will debut their innovative Spring 2008 collections on the CFW runway. Of the 16 Charleston hopefuls, Foster Fox, Rachel Gordon, Krista Beth Huff, Ashley Reid, Megan Waldrep, and Carol Hannah Whitfield were victorious in the designing competition. There really will be something for everyone—expect to see the grace of ballet intertwined with raw tribal emotions; the symbiosis between local architectural and organic elements; unapologetic high-roller Baccarat chic that exudes glitz and glamour; flirty vintage silhouettes that revive styles from the ’50s; haute silks drenched in an electrifying color palette; and Bohemian garments perfect for sultry Lowcountry nights.

The tents are going to be packed, the weather is supposed to be hot, and the no-see-ums may be problematic (bring some bug spray if you tend to get eaten like I do!), but this is going to be a momentous evening that you won’t want to miss! Plus, Jillian Lewis from Bravo’s hit TV show Project Runway will be in the audience, so make sure to look for her if you’re as big of a fan as we are here at Charleston magazine.

I know I say this every day, but this time I really mean it. I EXPECT to see you under the tents tonight! And if you see Foster, seriously… get him to tell you his new adjective. It’ll blow you away.

Cheers,

Russell H. Douglas

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We couldn’t do it without these lovely ladies! Stella Nova make up artists Krista Lane, Marta Hunt, and Shay St. Clair celebrate the end of another great CFW night. Photo: Russell Douglas

Bookmark to:

Second Night—A fashionable delight!

CFW — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 18:27:39 +0000

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I’ve decided that Charleston Fashion Week is like a fine wine. As the days go on, it just gets better and better.

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Karen Siegel, Charleston editor in chief Darcy Shankland, and Charleston Home editor Ellen McGauley enjoy the view from the front row. Photo: Russell Douglas

Once everyone arrived under the tent, guest host Ryan Nelson from ABC’s Lowcountry Live! welcomed the crowd in a cute little black dress from V2V.

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Guest emcee Ryan Nelson (center) of ABC’s Lowcountry Live! hangs out backstage before the show starts. Photo: Ellie Somerville

On a side note, I love Lowcountry Live! and practically consider Ryan to be the Kelly Ripa of the Lowcountry, so I had to introduce myself to her backstage. And let me tell you this—her sweet persona on the local morning show is totally real. Everyone backstage commented on what a doll she was to work with and she even stayed until the end of the show to chit-chat with audience members. (Love her!)

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Style editor Ayoka Lucas prepares to announce the next runway show. Photo: Kaitlyn Iserman

The crowd seemed more energized during the second night of CFW, probably because there was a bit more variety on the runway than on Tuesday. V2V’s show got a lot of praise from the audience, as their collection varied from cocktail dresses to swanky formal wear. Several attendees even commented that the collection seemed “feminine, delicate, and really flirty.”

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Charleston magazine staffer Misty Lister takes a break in the Red Bull VIP lounge with two lovely waitresses from Raval. Photo: Ellie Somerville

During one of the breaks between shows, Ryan Nelson introduced Margaret Jefferson Johnson of the Charleston chapter of Dress for Success. A portion of the proceeds from CFW benefit the organization, which provides interview suits and career development advice to low-income women in our community. For more information or to find out how you can get involved with Dress for Success, visit www.dressforsuccess.org.

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Ryan Nelson introduces Margaret Jefferson Johnson from Dress for Success, who takes a moment to explain the mission of her organization. Photo: Ellie Somerville

Hoops and hollers sprang from the crowd during the Biton show, and not just because of the hot models donning haute designer clothes. (We’re talking chic pieces by Roberto Cavalli, Zac Posen, and Catharine Malandrino making their way down the runway!) The awesome music, provided by DJ Arthur Brouthers, really pumped everyone up, or as Jeffrey Rhodes of the Margo Kaufman Gallery said, “A show that includes Banana Rama’s ‘Cruel Summer’… now THAT’S fashion!” I have to say, after hearing the same nameless, I’m-shopping-in-Hollister, techno songs blaring over and over, it was so great to hear some re-spun old favorites.

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Model and C of C student Harrison Sapp struts down the runway during the Biton show. Photo: Kaitlyn Iserman

But it was even better to see models show off their personality (and perhaps, gasp!, even a smile) during a show. At one point, one of Biton’s male models moonwalked to Michael Jackson’s hit, “Billie Jean,” and later pulled some quick trademark MJ moves for the shutterbugs gathered at the base of the runway. The crowd loved it, and let the moonwalking model know it as they showered him with “Oww-Owws!” as he strode by. He even acknowledged them back with a smile and a wink. Now THAT’S fashion!

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A model shows of his moonwalking skills in Biton’s amazing runway show Wednesday night. Photo: Russell Douglas

And everyone waited on pins and needles in anticipation of the Cose Belle show, which included the debut of Sucker, the first ever seersucker jeans. (Yes, you read that correctly.) The artful idea was actually conceptualized by Cary Weber and made by Emily Papugha, who I met later in the evening. “The key to making the pant universally flattering is in the board short waistband,” she said. ” We’re really excited about debuting them tonight; I think they’re going to be a big hit.”

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Emily Papugha, maker of Sucker Jeans, and CFW guest Anna Kristen Dukes celebrate the success of the Cosa Belle show. Photo: Russell Douglas

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Melissa Pope, a stylist at Elysium Salon (she’s my personal go-to girl for everything hair!) Becky Ness, visual stylist for Luna, and Billy Pope, a chef at Il Cortile Del Re restaurant, enjoy cocktails in the VIP lounge between shows. Photo: Ellie Somerville

After the final show, everyone headed over to the after party at Raval, where DJ Moo Moo rocked the house with awesome music. And though it was a little crowded (okay, it was packed… but still a blast!) the delicious Cava cocktails were the perfect way to toast a perfect evening.

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Andy Rankin and Catherine Dority from the Charleston Visitors Bureau enjoy a glass of champagne with Charleston magazine staffer Lindsey Nowak in the VIP lounge. Photo: Russell Douglas

Now it’s time to gear up for tonight’s shows! The fabulous Jeffrey Rhodes (who is the brilliant marketer and Margo Kaufman Gallery owner behind the ubiquitous neon-colored buttons of Margo) said he was especially excited for the Hampden Clothing show tonight.

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Stacy Smallwood, owner of Hampden Clothing, and Jeffrey Rhodes of Margo Kaufman Gallery, eagerly await Thursday night’s shows. Photo: Ellie Somerville

Stacy Smallwood, owner of the chic King Street boutique, put Charleston on the map in the March issue of VOGUE magazine when she was quoted as saying, “I just have a feeling that Charleston is going to be the next little fashion capital of the South.” And based on the success of CFW so far, it appears Smallwood is absolutely right.

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CFW volunteer Meg Kelly, model Harrison Sapp, and CFW volunteer Carly Verhey celebrate a successful night outside the main tent. Photo: Russell Douglas

Cheers everyone! Hope to see you under the tents again tonight.

—Russell H. Douglas

Bookmark to:

Charleston Fashion Week 2008 - Opening Night

CFW — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 17:45:37 +0000

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It may have been chilly outside, but the scene inside the tent was hotter than ever as Charleston magazine’s second annual Charleston Fashion Week (CFW) kicked off last night in Marion Square.

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Charleston magazine staffer Katie Kern rocks the runway during the StyleExchange fashion show on Tuesday night. Photo: Ellie Somerville

Upon entering the tent, I couldn’t help but have that whole “Toto, I don’t think we’re in Charleston anymore” feeling. Beautiful guests mingled at the chic bars set up on either side of the 60-foot runway, sipping champagne and discussing their favorite designers; an array of paparazzi gathered at the end of the tent and prepared their equipment; and the lucky VIPs in the Red Bull VIP lounge took to their seats and dug through their swanky gift bags, which included goodies like NARS body cream, gift certificates, and the current issue of Charleston magazine.

At 7pm sharp, the lights dimmed, the enormous disco balls lifted from the runway, and guest emcee Brooke Ryan from 95SX’s Two Girls and a Guy welcomed everyone. With eager anticipation, and jammin’ beats provided by DJ Arthur Brouthers, the first seven shows of CFW were off and running.

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Style editor Ayoka Lucas, Chai, owner of Chai’s Tapas & Lounge, and CFW committee member Heather Barrie-Ahern mingle in the Red Bull VIP Lounge between shows. Photo: Ellie Somerville

As the first string of models began to strut down the runway donning their designer apparel from Anne’s, I marveled at how wonderfully CFW had come together. In just three months, the CFW committee—comprised of various Charleston magazine staffers and a group of volunteers—has brought style editor Ayoka Lucas’ fabulous vision to life. (And we’re talking Carrie Bradshaw fabulous!)

Flashing lights erupted from the media pit during each show, as a cluster of lensmen gathered at the base of the runway to snap pictures of the models. Among them were some adorable shutterbugs from Charleston Kids with Cameras, which is a photography mentoring program formed to help inner city boys and girls see the world beyond their neighborhoods.

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A model prepares for a quick change back stage. Photo: Kaitlyn Iserman

The atmosphere was almost electric throughout the night, as audience members audibly reacted to the passing collections of each store. That same electricity even transferred to the hot after-party at Chai’s, where CFW guests rubbed elbows with models and store owners enjoyed some much-needed cocktails.

According to several attendees, the Saks Fifth Avenue “Want It!” show was the most anticipated of the evening; “Saks is just the best,” commented one VIP. Yet it was Putumayo’s internationally-inspired collection of bright dresses and Carribean Sea-colored prints that really made an impression on the crowd. Newcomer K. Morgan’s show rocked as well, as it demonstrated the variety of looks available at the King Street boutique.

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Backstage volunteers help a model wiggle into a flowing Diane von Furstenberg dress during the Saks Fifth Avenue show. Photo: Kaitlyn Iserman

But it was StyleExchange’s fashionable collection—which included a male heartthrob wearing only orange underwear, a blazer, and cowboy boots—that ultimately elicited cat-calls and whistles from the audience. One memorable on-looker was even heard singing “That [mess] is papayas… P-A-P-A-Y-A-S!” during the show, which I guessed was a nod to lyrics of the popular Gwen Stefani song, “Holla’ Back Girl.” Evidently in the fashion world, papayas are the new bananas.

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A underwear-clad model thrilled audience members during the edgy StyleExchange show. Photo: Kaitlyn Iserman

And we have to give props to Kristin Williams, the lovely owner of K. Morgan. Despite her small runway spill after the store’s debut show, the K. Morgan show rocked, as it featured pieces from designers like Badgley Mischka and Pink Tartan. Hey, at least there were no wardrobe malfunctions to speak of.

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Ciara Casbarro, winner of the 95sx’s Next Top Model contest, made her runway debut on Tuesday night, in an outfit from Teal. Photo: Ellie Somerville

Let’s hope tonight’s shows are as awesome as last night’s. And with a line-up that includes Teal, V2V, and Biton, I’m pretty sure it will be.

See you under the tents!

—Russell H. Douglas

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Opening Night

CFW — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 18:32:42 +0000

Fashion Week officially begins tonight!

Get your tickets now: charlestonfashionweek.com

Check back soon for updates as we’ll be updating you with photos, stories and general goings-on!

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