Boston Caribbean Fashion Week - Ortega Jewelry Showcase

Fri Aug 14th I attended the BCFW night 4 event at the Caribbean Arts Gallery featuring Ortega Jewelry Designs. The gallery was fairly small and included a sign in desk, step & repeat, social media banner and an area serving refreshments & appetizers. The Ortega table display and jewelry workbench were prominently displayed in the front of the showroom.  The event started off fairly slow with several guests wandering in about 30 min after start time. Althea Blackford (CEO of VStyle Productions and StyleItUp411) opened the event with a wonderful welcome speech and details about the jewelry line, she then handed the mic over to Natasha Moore (BigCity FM) for what seemed like an impromptu interview with Jackie Ortega (CEO & Lead Designer of Ortega jewelry). Ortega detailed her work process, materials she likes to work with, future plans for the collection, and her inspiration for design which she noted as being her family. Jackie then provided guests with a physical demonstration on jewelry making with pieces that included a leaflet metal bodice, body chains, necklaces w/coral stone detail, and a wide variety of large link bracelets.  Miss Ortega answered questions from the audience while guests viewed some of the pieces she had for purchase which were very reasonably priced. I purchased a stone necklace and received a beautiful coral stone ring. Overall the event was very relaxed/low key and it was very exciting to have close access to such an amazing designer. It is very evident that Althea (event coordinator) loves what she does and has put a lot of effort into all of the events she has planned for Boston Caribbean Fashion Week. 

Ortega was previously featured on www.thehautehouse.com and can be contacted directly for collection details & purchase Ortegajewelry@gmail.com

 

 

Rating: 4 Out Of 5 Stars

Queens Know Launch Party

The Queens know launch party took place at The Harborside lounge on Saturday Aug 1st. After purchasing my V.I.P ticket I entered an empty lounge about 45 min before showtime. The door greeters seemed marginally uninformed and somewhat confused about how the evening was supposed to run. After an opportunity to visit the "model suite" which didn't have the most welcoming vibe, I delivered a bottle of bubbly to the staff and models to lighten the mood. After seating myself in the "V.I.P" area - a small crowd began to role in. I also noticed that there was little to no distinction between the general public and VIP. I went through my "swag bag" which including a variety of products including a plastic hand held mirror, a plastic compact mirror a small nail kit and a bottle of nail polish. The same gift bags were also given to some of the other guests..  The host of the show tried to connect with a surly and non participatory crowd. I appreciated her efforts and energy, she is a great host/MC and I hope to see her continue to be involved in more shows this year. Once the show started, what came down the runway was essentially a collection of t-shirts in varying sizes and lengths with the queens know logo across the front paired with a variety of basic bottoms including short shorts, jeans, and tutus, I was not really clear on the actual design aspect or exactly what had been created in the way of fashion. As of today's date the quenns know retail website / boutique is still pending (I will try to update w/ purchase info if I receive any). The most exciting part of the event was the model runway performance. There were several choreographed steps and movements that were very creative and entertaining. The event also touted authentic Haitian cuisine, and while I am no expert of that type of cuisine I am certain hoagies and a cheese/cracker platter does not a Haitian dish make. The queens know has a very good message of empowerment for women. More than fashion this seemed like an attempt to promote a lifestyle vs a clothing brand. While it is very important for Tailcoat Times to embrace and promote all things related to diversity in fashion here in Boston,  attempts that may fall short will be clocked as such. There is a standard level of quality that was not met and I truly hope to see Queens Know utilize their resources more wisely for future events.

Rating: 2 Out Of 5 Stars

Boston Curvy Week (The Curves Are Coming Fashion Show)

As part of the first annual Boston Curvy Fashion week, night three brought us a fashion show at the Boston Common Hotel on Saturday July 25th. I have recently seen quite a few fashion shows utilizing this venue in recent months. While it may not be the prettiest location it certainly serves the purpose and has a great location in the heart of Copley square.

Upon arrival, through a semi hidden side door entrance guests were greeted by Sandra Augustin (Founder of BCFW & CEO of Your Desired Dream Event Production Company ) and her staff members at a sign in table. I was pleased to see such a well organized and professional welcome. Once upstairs guests entered into a round foyer which housed a few vendors including John Casablanca's and a step and repeat banner. Having guests pass through the vending area prior to seating was a very smart move, often times show coordinators place vendors in a separate room and they are never seen by the public. If you absolutely must have vendors hawking their goods it's a clever strategy to place them in a high traffic area.  

The staff were recognizable in uniform and did a great job managing the crowd and directing guests to their seats. Once inside the main runway area, the room was packed and press was positioned at the end of the runway. The show started on time and the host was engaging, humorous and genuinely entertaining to the crowd in between designs. While the fashion was not what I considered to be high-end couture the clothing fit the models well and the actual designs ranged in style from punk rock (ASK fashion) to Caribbean inspired (Lleya P). 

There were also 2 musical guests that provided entertainment between collections. The DJ also did a great job of keeping the crowd hyped with up beat tunes.

For a first year run - the Curves are coming fashion show was successful and I can't wait to see what they will be able to do next year.

The entire show was a great representation of female empowerment and embracing all body types. A portion of the proceeds were scheduled to be donated to Dress for Success-Boston.

Rating: 4 Out Of 5 Stars

Boston Curvy Fashion Week (Talbot's Showcase)

Tailcoat Times had the opportunity to attend a See & Shop hosted by Boston Curvy Fashion Week. The event was held at Talbots on Boylston in Copley Sqaure. The store's main foyer provided a great setting for the small fashion preview as well as a brief panel discussion, Q&A, light breakfast, and Jamberry nail section (oddly placed in a small window-sill). We had the opportunity to speak briefly with the  founder of BCFWeek Sandra Augustin about the outdated perception of Talbot's being a store for an older or less modern consumer. We agreed that the new line, including a beautiful wrap dress she was wearing, were indeed geared towards more modern fashionistas. The event was well attended and VERY well organized, including a DJ, shopping discount wrist bands, swag bags (did not receive one so I don't know what was in it), and a raffle. FASE Magazine also made a post event appearance.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Conrad Lamour @ Bastille

I had the pleasure of viewing a Conrad Lamour event @ Bastille kitchen downstairs on June 25th. It was a creative and moody set showcasing Lamour's designs. Guests were able to view the sleek and bold collection through an intimate photo shoot taking place at the end area of the downstairs venue. The majority of patrons seemed focused on personal conversations and the beauty of the models vs the amazing clothes or high level of fashion. There were really no announcements or interactions with Conrad and the audience which set a very hushed and inquisitive mood. I have been to quite a few random venues throughout Boston touting "pop-up" or "showcase" fashion events in an evening / lounge setting, for me this was the first time it seemed to really make sense. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars 

Khiara Bridges - Most Stylish Bostonians 2015

Associate Professor Khiara M. Bridges speaks fluent Spanish and basic Arabic, has reported for the Miami Herald, is an active professional ballet dancer, and has recently published a book that shines new light on the politics of health care for the poor. In addition to her Columbia Law School J.D., she has a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Columbia and holds dual appointments as Associate Professor of Law and Associate Professor of Anthropology at BU.

Bethann Hardison - LEGEND

Fashion activist and model Bethann Hardison was born in Brooklyn, New York. After graduating from George W. Wingate High School, Hardison attended the New York University Art School and the Fashion Institute of Technology. During the 1960s, Hardison worked in the garment district of New York City as saleswoman. In 1967, she was discovered by African American designer Willi Smith and began working for Smith as a fitting model, soon crossing over to the runway and print industries.

Hardison and other members of the Black Girls Coalition work to help clear the path for other African Americans interested in the fashion industry, both behind the scenes as well as in front of the cameras. The group also tackles more weighty issues such as homelessness. “I’d like to think I’m here to make a difference,” Hardison asserted in Vibe. “I never expected to make big money at what I do. But in terms of respect and longevity, I can make a difference for a Tyson, a Veronica Webb, a Roshumba, or the next young person who comes along.” Yet Hardison did once divulge dreams of another world far removed from the glamorous, high-stakes fashion scene. “I’d like to own a bar in Anguilla,” she once confessed in Mirabella. “And then maybe I’d sell collectibles, things picked up from my travels.”

 

Museum of Fine Arts Juneteenth 2015 Celebration

As with the majority of events in Boston that attempt to celebrate diversity and detail our rich and complex history the Juneteenth event was under-promoted and somewhat disorganized albeit well attended. With the exception of a general program flyer attendees were left to roam the museum without general direction or coordination. As you may have guessed I specifically went for the fashion portion of the exhibition which featured Krèyol and Claude Michelle; 2 of my favorite designers. Although I have seen the pieces from both collections on a few other occasions I rather enjoyed the refreshing and unique look the garments took on in the museum setting alongside the dramatic murals and sculptures. The MFA setting added a dimension and detail to the fabrics that was surprisingly new and inspiring.  Krèyol's collaboration with photographer D.Irvin was particularly unique with live posing models on white block pedestals, switching poses at certain intervals throughout the evening. The room was crowded and buzzing with lively conversation. Along one side of the wall was a photographic collage of photos taken around the city. The entire Epistrophy series can be best described as an apocalyptic concrete jungle; couture mad max. I loved it!

The crowd that came out to support the event did not disappoint wardrobe wise, the bold fashion choices roaming the halls were  exhilarating and powerful. Here are a few of my favorites. 

#1 - FRESH - She was accompanied by a very nice lady who assisted in posing her for the photo. The picture does not do justice to the quality of this dress fabric. She did a fantastic job pairing it with tribal printed ballet flats and a cute belt. It was simple, clean and FRESH.

#2- SISTERLY FASHION - They were unique in individual fashion choices but very cohesive in their support of each others look. Somehow they complimented each other in very contrasting wardrobe choices. Beautiful separately and also stunning as a pair: SISTERLY FASHION

#3- THRIFTOLOGIST - The name says it all she was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about all things thrift and style. An excellent eye for pairing vintage and hard to find items together to create effortless and one of a kind style. U-Meleni Mhlaba-Adebo is THRIFTOLOGIST 

#4 CONFIDENT- She was taller than the average and wore it well with bold makeup, bright colors and beautiful braids. The scarf was also a nice touch but the necklace underneath was exquisite. She was relaxed, strong and CONFIDENT 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo Fashion - Make Your Clicks Count!

How to take expert fashion photos!

http://improvephotography.com/29424/photograph-fashion-show/ 

"Though from a distance, shooting a fashion show might look like a simple thing, in reality it is anything but. Fashion shows move quickly and you don’t get second chances to capture the glitz and glamor of the latest designs. Much of the work involved, comes down to preparation and being familiar with your gear. While most of these tips are used by professional fashion photographers, they will also work if you shoot a smaller show."


Fashion Show 101

I've had the pleasure of attending several local fashion shows this spring and look forward to covering all of the shows I can going forward. The beauty of Fashion and ART is to show the good, bad and ugly while keeping viewers transfixed with the hope of gaining new and returning consumers. The drawing of an audience gives designers & fashion show directors power to influence what is worn NOW and to drive future trends. The key task is to showcase collections in a unique and memorable way; a grocery store converted into a runway  or perhaps a traipse down the Great Wall of China?

The ability to scale the ideas of iconic and bold shows presented  by luxury / brand name designers down to a more realistic local show is an extremely difficult task. I want to encourage anyone in the process of producing a fashion show to attempt to evoke the same emotions and excitement that the larger established brands have mastered. This is a task that I have yet to see successfully executed in the Boston fashion show arena (namely for Urban artists).

Realistically speaking an established design house's production budget is something that most designers are simply not able to afford, no matter how high the cost of entry or "cheapness" of the venue. The old adage about presenting a filet mignon on a garbage can lid holds very true when it comes to event production, garment quality, and the overall success of a fashion show; if the elements are not presented well it does matter how delicious the offering is.   

Confirming designers, selecting models, choosing a venue and gaining quality sponsors & vendors are just a few of the simple steps in the complex orchestration of a successful fashion show. Strategic coordination coupled with cost constraints have flopped many a runway production. 

Tailcoat Times is here to help, just shoot us an email. 

 

 

Clothing: True Love

Hi Fashion Fans! I had the wonderful pleasure of watching the Biography of Mr. Bill Cunningham (Photographer - NY Times) on Netflix last night. To say this film was spell binding is an understatement. It's the true story of the passion, fantasy and heartbreak of arguably the greatest fashion photographer of our time. I implore you to watch the documentary for yourselves, but to leave you with a few key snippets: Bill rides his bike everywhere to photograph in NYC, he is 85 years young and he tears up 6 figure paychecks!  The icing on the cake is: He is a fellow BOSTONIAN!!!!!!!

Receiving a glimpse of the life and times of Mr. Cunningham was so moving and meaningful to me I wanted to share it with all of you. "Fashion is the armour to survive the reality of everyday life. I don't think you could do away with it. It would be like doing away with civilization.”- Bill Cunningham

http://www.nytimes.com/video/on-the-street/ 



What do you know about Anne Lowe?

What do you know about Anne Lowe?

The ONE and ONLY Anne Lowe! A pioneer in women's dress. She was one of the first women of color to join the ranks of the New York fashion establishment during the 50's. Anne held true to her vision of uniqueness by never repeating a design.

Casa De Angelina - F/W 2015

This was by far Angelina's most cohesive and well presented collection to date. The production of the event coupled with artistic and sophisticated pieces made this show a hit. The stand out design was most certainly the white gown that closed the show. Are we seeing wedding bells?? The rest of the collection was very dress focused. A few of the other stand out pieces were: a floor length metallic fishtail gown with red trim and a simple white gown with a very dramatic deep royal lace overlay draping one shoulder and flowing down the back of the garment.

CDA selected a wonderful venue (The Exchange Conference Center-Seaport) to showcase her most recent collection. The night started with a VIP mixer. There could have been more / better music during the crown mingle, it felt a little awkward and unplanned. The best feature of the space was the surprise reveal of the runway which was concealed behind a partition during the cocktail hour. Swathed in white curtain and dramatic lighting the runway was beautiful and sleek. The  coordination of the seating and beginning of the show came with a few slight hiccups however the powerful music and walk of the first design made up for it. 

The crowd was hype and for the most part very fashionable. It was a very exciting affair and I look forward to seeing what she has to offer with a larger venue in the future. 

Check out more: http://www.casadeangelina.com/

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Rating: 5 Out Of 5 Stars

 

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