Okay so here is a recap on what this event was all about and why I spent over four months planning for it!
I recently completed my Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Merchandising, and when you are preparing to graduate, students are required to present a portfolio of the work they have accumulated throughout their time at the school as well as show off what you have learned and what skills you will be leaving with.
Now, as a merchandising student, not all of our classes are fun and artsy. We actually have to take lots of business classes, math classes, etc. (All I can say is, I will never become an accountant) therefore, merchandising students get a bad rep for having "boring" portfolio presentations in comparison to the designers who can show their line they have designed, along with photo shoots for the collection or whatever else they have created. For the merch students we're like "hey I created this business plan and I know how to use a gantt chart, and plan a project and I know about global sourcing and free trade versus fair trade..." but who really wants to hear any of that?
So for my portfolio, my professor encouraged me to think outside of the box. So after much thought and advice from my mentors, I decided to host an event, showcasing my services as a stylist, as well as a blogger. I wanted to bring in other local artists and collaborate to not only give myself exposure, but them as well. I decided to style my models for my little mini "fashion show" with clothing from these local stores/designers. Two stores, one designer. Down below are all the looks from the show and where you can find them, the show/event itself, and even some behind the scenes!
Zebraclub
“Since 1985, Zebraclub has made it their personal mission to bring fresh and new fashion brands to Seattle. Not only are they a local boutique but also one of the top sites for the community to look towards for fashionable and artistic inspiration.”
Zebraclub has such a great variety of clothing. They have fun street wear but also have some great shnazzy pieces if you’re looking for something a little fancier. They sell men’s and women’s clothing in store, and their online store carries higher end women’s apparel.
When styling this group, we ended up going with a fun summer vibe. Some models looked ready for a day at the beach, others looked ready for a nice warm night out. If you look closely, all my boys had rockin’ socks on. Socks are probably my favorite accessory for a guy, especially with these “short shorts” being on trend for guys. Mixing patterns, pale pinks (might have to do with Rose Quartz being the color of the year), socks, I’m obsessed with it all as of now.
MoeVonne
“I originally started off in fine arts, I had always had passion for drawing. As my high school career evolved I pictured myself as a runway model but as the years passed and I learned more about the fashion world and I decided that instead of being the one wearing the clothes I would be the one designing them and that was the start of my design career.”I remember seeing DreCarla’s line on the runway at the AI Fashion show a couple of months ago, her line was one of my favorites! So when a friend of ours connected us, I jumped at the chance to have her feature a couple of looks for the event. I love her line because her pieces are so easy to dress up, or dress down! Which every girl can appreciate!
DreCarla’s label is called MoeVonne, and although it may be vague, she says that a brief description of her collection, is herself. “I know that may be a little weird to say but when I see my collection I see myself. I want to create not just an “on trend “or a “marketable” piece but when people see my designs I want them to be able to see me with one glance.” I feel that DreCarla has done a great job at portraying what she wants to through her works of art. Her clothing not only was aesthetically pleasing, but from a technical stand point, her work is phenomenal as well.
When styling my girls, we went for a shabby chic/heroin chic vibe. I feel that my babes, Teanna and Mary modeled this very well.
Satori
Many of you know that I am all about girl power, woman bosses, empowering other young women; that is why my heart hurts for issues such as sex trafficking. This is one of the many reasons why I love Satori, a local Tacoma boutique that advocates just that. In this line-up, there were a couple of subtle pieces that make a statement, such as a shirt declaring that “The Future Is Female” or a little pin, “Feminist With A To Do List.” Now guys, don’t get offended, if you are offended it only means you feel threatened. Besides, Satori is bringing in a men’s line to the store here soon too so don't get judgey.
It was so fun styling these girls, they looked good in everything so it was pretty easy. Adding the accessories was literally icing on the cake. I am really into chokers and ties around the neck right now, so I added a folded bandana to one of the girl’s outfit and then also bought some simple ribbon to tie onto another girl. Her dress was so simple the accessorizing possibilities were endless, so I wanted to keep it simple, yet unique. I have seen the ribbon around the neck from other bloggers and decided to incorporate it into this particular look. I think they all turned out looking pretty darn cute if you ask me. Then again I’m a little bias.
Now on a totally different note… I really wish to be a good plant parent and I have purchased a couple of small ones from Satori but they died… Okay well more like I accidentally killed them… So Diamond (the owner) told me I should think about getting a cactus...
Another plus about Satori is that majority of their products are made within the U.S. which is so rare these days, yet so valuable. More retailers need to strive for the same. They team up with local artists from around the Tacoma and Seattle area and sell their products as well, such as the jewelry and bags.
I really enjoyed working with the Diamond. She’s fun and sweet and you can really tell she puts a lot of love and hard work into her store. If you’re ever in the Downtown Tacoma area, you have to go check them out. Warning: it is hard to leave without purchasing at least one thing… Even if its just a plant.
The Event & Show
Behind The Scenes
