Friday, November 25, 2011

ACCIDENTAL INDUSTRY FASHION SHOW'S FLARE WAS NO ACCIDENT

Local fashion show was the talk of the town!  


Local designers such as Hill Vintage, Magpie, and Raygun showed their winter lines. Took a rumored 3 months of production before the show finally took place. My first fashion show was truly a unique experience. I did not experience it as a designer, a model, or even a guest but as an intern. Three young fashionistas/designers, inspired by Des Moines own fashion blogger Lacy Brunnette, Lucy Shay, and Sara Jae. My first impression as I walked up the black checkered staircase was one of a forgotten old building. The walls are aged, with layers of peeling wallpaper. A classical ballet class is in progress as we arrive, putting our coats and wraps on the wooden benches. There is so much wood, everywhere. Wooden floors, and red and yellow columns the colors are so bright and curious nude art hangs here and there on the peeling walls. 






At first I was overwhelmed by the aura of the place, but soon I became accustomed to it. We had a discussion with Lucy, who directed us to set up the chairs for the VIP seating. I stayed late and assisted the models with filling the VIP gift bags with goodies. Someday I will be a VIP, I swear. At least that's my plan. I felt myself struggling with my old social anxieties, and did my best to fight them the rest of the evening. By the time I left I felt defeated and not entirely ready to take on the next day of the actual show. 







But I returned the following evening, and after spending the first part of the day with a friend, my confidence had risen again. It was all hustling when I arrived. Models were being made up; powdered and pinched, their hair teased and crimped, extensions added and blush applied. Once they had put on their high heels and black masks they looked quite tall and daunting; a look strictly reserved for models. 







I was a floater, which required me to go wherever I was called. I ran to the quick shop to buy some ice for the drink stand. As the time drew near for the show to start, the models began lining up so the designers could dress them. You could feel the tension slowly building, becoming more and more intense as each moment passed. Once the show started, the music began playing and the models began walking. Although being in the back behind the scenes, I stood at the end where the models returned from their walk, and congratulated them each personally, in order to give them a boost of confidence. 






My nervousness seemed to have left me for the moment. It was interesting to see the walking personality of each model; some were very typical, others had their own style and flair. I was determined not to let this valuable networking opportunity slip by me, and I made an effort and ended up befriended several photographers, designers and even a few models. I was inspired by the show, both by the enthusiasm of the designers and models, and the designs themselves. What with all the hurrying about and helping models changed clothes it was all I could do to capture a few photos.
The booming music and the applause was deafening. 





After the show had finally ended, and from the noise my ears were mended, I walked among the crowd, snapping pictures. When I finally walked to my car and drove home, I spent the time thinking about what a wonderful night it had been. I hope to be participating as a designer at next year's accidental industry show. But I shall end with this: Whether or not I am a designer, model or guest, count me in on the next fashion show! If you want to read more about this show and see some more photos, click here: https://www.facebook.com/AccidentalIndustry

Monday, November 7, 2011

School Outfit

The Other day when I went to school I wore a lacy gray spaghetti-strapped suit, complete with a light shimmery floral print scarf, cozy leggings, and a pair of semi-clunky black boots.
Here are the photos:





 Jewelry: A mock turquoise ring with silver detail, a silver oak leaf ring, and a pieced silver bracelet complete the outfit. (ABOVE)
Note the floral lace

Cozy gray leggings are a perfect addition to this outfit