Cavortress

Florals for Spring...Groundbreaking

2015-04-05T13:03:00.000-07:00

As Miranda Priestly notoriously said in the 2006 movie, The Devil Wears Prada, "Florals for Spring isn't the most ground breaking idea". Every year when spring come, flowers appear everywhere! Whether they're in your garden or in your favorite store or closet, flowers are unavoidable. As basic as this trend for spring is, I do enjoy my fair share of floral print. Who wouldn't be excited over an okra flower print romper?! Scroll through and see the Cavortress take on this seasonal trend!

1960's Cotton Saks Fifth Avenue Dress:$88.00

1960's Printed Dress: $62.00

1980's Rayon Floral Jumpsuit: $32.00

1960's Pucci Silk Maxi: $850.00

1940's Matching Needlework Change Purse: $34.00

1980's Beaded Flower Purse: $48.00

1960's Resin Floral & Glitter Ring: $22.00

2015-03-21T10:24:00.000-07:00

Friday night at CFW was the first day of spring (plus the vernal equinox, super new moon, and total eclipse of the sun), sprinkled with rain and dried by sunshine and energetically attended by birds, bees, flowers and trees. Well, it was a heck of a way to end winter. Deer shed their antlers in the spring, as do animals their fur. Would there be a better time to wear jewelry made of antlers and give your fur or feathers a last go-around? Maybe break out a ridiculously bright color or floral print? Rock sparkles? Cavortress says no. Some people embraced their inner casual Friday, while others visiting from out of town wore sunburns (from Tuesday) as an accessory turned souvenir (ouch!). Check out how who wore what last night.

Janelle Gray, design team for Alex and Ani (visiting from New Jersey)
Instagram: @janellemoynagh
Dress: Alice + Olivia
Shoes: BCBG
Bag: Alex and Ani
Sunburn: Folly Beach

Megan Murphy (r), Benefit Focus
Instagram: @murphthesmurff

Caftan: Cavortress

Necklace: 3 Little Beads with natural deer antlers

Shoes: Vince Camuto

Bag: Dooney and Burke

Leah Thornley (l), jewelry designer and owner of 3 Little Beads

Instagram: @3littlebeads + @leahthornley

Necklace: 3 Little Beads

Dress: Dillard's

Shoes: J. Crew

Bag: Louis Vuitton

Watch: Nixon

Ring: Cartier

Instagram: @quet1

Shoes: Steve Madden

Dress: Island Princess

Necklace: Frugal

Purse and Sunglasses: Prada

(Last day for feathers)

Thomas Robertson, co-founder and contributor of Outre Mode + makeup artist at Mac Cosmetics

Instagram: @smilethomsmile + @outre_mode

Shoes: Steve Madden

Glasses: Versace

Suit/Shirt: Express

Watch: Marc Jacobs

Fur Stoll: Thrifted
(Last day for fur)

Gary Rader, assistant buyer/manager at Shoes on King

Instagram: @garyrader

Rings: Savannah Parker

Chambray hand embroidered dress: Vintage

Shoes: Rebecca Minkoff

(Casual Friday, birds, bugs, and flowers—we have a home run here!)

Harriet Lee, Yes Carolina

Earrings: Local Designer at Cooper Penny
Shoes: French Connection
Jacket: Anthropologie
Shirt: Banana Republic
Top: Las Olas
Bag: Vintage

Robert Blake, visual merchandiser at Gucci
Instagram: @robertblakester

Shirt: Robert Graham

Sunnies: Cavortress

Belt: M. Dumas & Sons

Pants: Mosa

Jewelry: Cavortress (Vintage Thai Silver)

Watch: Oris

(Casual Friday)

Lonnie J. Hawkins, stylist + blogger

Instagram: @southofyork

Shoes: Lacoste

Pants: Levi's

Jacket:Ralph Lauren

Glasses: Ray Ban

Anna Nash, creative director of Park Avenue Fashion Week

Instagram: @_annanash_

Shoes: gifted

Pants: Nine West

Jacket: H&M

Necklace: Kabana

Bangles: Bourbon and Boweties

Flash Tattoos

Bag: Danielle Nicole

(80s Barbie meets Casual Friday)

Gentleman on the left:

Pants, Jacket, Shirt: Ralph Lauren

Tie: J. Crew

Glasses: Oliver Peoples

Gentleman on the right:

Shoes: Salvatore Ferragamo

Pants and Tie: J. Crew

Jacket: Brooks Brothers

Shirt: Michael Kors

Glasses: Tom Ford

Elli Boland, life coach

Necklace: Melinda Maria

Pants: Black Orchid

Shoes and Earrings: gifted

Jacket: Bebe

Top and Bag: from Germany

Courtney Habberstad

Instagram: @courtneyhabberstad

Shoes: Aldo

Dress: Parker NY

Jewelry: Chan Luu

Ring: Broken English

Bangles: from Italy

Bangles: Bourbon and Boweties

Greer Chenault (r), Inventiv Environments

Dress: Black Halo

Shoes: Banana Republic

Jewelry: Philippe Ferrandis

Bracelet: Hermes

Watch: Rolex

Jacqueline Lawrence (l), owner of Inventiv Environments

Dress: Mosa

Shoes: Cole Haan

Michelle Wood (c), model coach

Outfit: She had no clue—but looks fab!

David Hart, men's wear designer

Head to toe David Hart

(Spring green)

Boyfriend of Emerging Designer Sara Ellis Clark

Instagram: @alabamabiscuit + @clarksara3

Jacket: Belk

T-Shirt: Merman Supply

Jeans: Billy Reid

Shoes: OluKai

Geoffrey Richardson, owner of Lava Salon

Instagram: @lavasalon

Suit: no clue, found on random rack

Shoes: Converse

Hat: Kangol

Kara Smoak, Intern + CofC Student

Dress: Tobi

Ring: David Yurman

Bracelet: Cavortress

Hat: Vintage, Cavortress

Bag: Lucky Brand

Charleston Fashion Week Street Style Day 3

2015-03-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

On night three, it not only rained, it poured. Being fashionable on a rainy day outdoors is not the easiest thing to do. Luckily, there are a number of places on the Charleston Fashion Week^® campus at Marion Square to take shelter. My intern got to the media tent early last night, and when she met me to pick up my computer, I asked her, "How does it look out there?" She replied, "There's a lot of black, and people aren't really walking around." What this means is that a number of people were taking shelter at the Style Lounge (and bar) or at the VIP tent sponsored by Gwynn's. This made for a hell of a rowdy night once the rain let up and intermission happened. Thursday night was fun.

Now back to what people were wearing. There WAS a lot of black, and even one attendee, ShinHae Yoon, put it all on the line with her shirt that said "To Wear Black Or Not To Wear Black." Enough said. What you wear is always a choice. Like we said on our #CHSFW Day 1 Street Style post, clothing is your arsenal to the world. We also predicted unpredictable weather, and viola—there was rain! Thursday night required clever handling of the elements in many cases, and some people just wanted to brighten things up a little. Others just wanted to hang out and have a cocktail (or four).

Designer Richelle Valenzuela (l) and model ShinHae Yoon
ShinHae:
Instagram: @shinhaeyoon
Skirt: Zachary/Nathaniel
Jacket: Scotch & Soda
Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell
Bracelet: Gifted

Designer Carlos Campos (l), Miguel (c), and Lufti (r)
All apparel by Carlos Campos unless otherwise noted.
Carlos:
Instagram: @carloscamposdesign
Shoes: Retro Nike
Lufti:
Shoes: Cole Haan
Bag: Phillip Lim
Jewelry: Vintage

Justin Walczuk
Instagram: @fotoready
Shoes: Johnston & Murphy
Blazer: Banana Republic
Shirt: Steel & Jelly
Tie: Social Primer
Pants: Saks

Aviancia Applewhite

Instagram: @fashionpursuits

Shoes: Steve Madden

Dress: from the Internet

Angharad Jones, Charleston Magazine PR and Marketing Manager
Instagram: @welshbella
Shoes: BCBG
Jumpsuit: Whitney Rife
Jewelry and scarf: Hidden Countship
Bag: Mango

Adam Zhu (l), web developer at Obviouslee Marketing, and Zac Mallard, creative director at Empire Apothecary
Adam:
Instagram: @theadamzhu
Shoes: Rick Owens
Jacket: BBS
Zachary:
Instagram: @empireapothecary
Shoes: Ferragamo
Suit: Sarar

Abigail Marie, owner of Nonpareil Photography
Instagram: @nonpareilabigail
Pants and faux-fur vest: from China

Bag: from South America

Top: Thrift store

Jewelry: Collected over the years—mad love for star-shaped jewelry.

Robert Blake, Visual Merchndiser at Gucci
Instagram: @robertblakester
Shoes: Aldo
Sunnies: Gucci

Pants: Calvin Klein
Blazer: Vintage Langston of Princeton, NJ from Cavortress (Check out that hand-sewn label! And the fabric is batiked by hand.)
Necklace: Cavortress
Top: Express

Bess Winn

Instagram: @satchit81

Necklace: Stella & Dot

Bracelets: David Yurman

Dress: Milly

Shoes: Kate Spade

Charlotte Baroody, owner of Revere by Charlotte Baroody
Instagram: @chachabaroody
Hat: Vintage, Mr. John
Shoes: Miu Miu
Shirt: Troubadour
Bag: Alexander Wang
Pants: Lysse
Jewelry: David Yurman

Josef Myers, owner of That Level
Instagram: @realjosef
Watch: Casio
Shoes: Puma
Jacket: from Korea
Shirt: Five Four Club
Pants: H&M

Julie Wheat, professor at Art Insitute of Charleston + owner of Cavortress

Instagram: @Cavortress

Robe: 1940s silk embossed and hand-painted with Sumi-e Haori (Kimono outer jacket), Thrifted, Clarence, NY

Necklaces: Larger/multi stone: 1920s druzy and sterling (gifted from a client); Solitaire: gifted, Union Diamond
Boots: Lucky

Umbrella: 1940s bamboo/vinyl parisol (it works as an umbrella!), Gypsy Lady Antiques
Dress: Vintage Dolce & Gabbana

Chopsticks: 1920s ebony and paua shell, gifted

Mollie Howey, painter
Instagram: @knitterplease843
Skirt: BCBG
Stockings: Victoria's Secret
Garter Belt: Bits of Lace
Shoes: Kenneth Cole
Shirt: Gracia
Jewelry: Gifted

Charleston Fashion Week Street Style Day 2

2015-03-19T10:29:00.000-07:00

Like we said yesterday, the weather is unpredictable in March in the Lowcountry, and it's OK to wear fur at Charleston Fashion Week^®, if you so choose. And with the weather being under 60 degrees, there were people wearing fur! Also, people who may have planned their outfits were a bit chilly. Regardless of the temperature—like we also said yesterday— it's not who or what you are wearing, but how you are wearing it.

Ike Behar's show last night was a perfect example of how to execute that. They put women in menswear, rolled cuffs, and even paired one of their impeccably tailored ensembles with a beat-up pair of vintage Nike shoes. I had a moment with the Behar brothers and Frederick Jabber (the man behind the Charleston store on King Street and one of the most stylish AND sexy men in town) and discussed. The difference between how Shep Rose of Bravo TV's Southern Charm pulls off Ike Behar is an entirely different thing than how he would do it. (See below.)

Frederick Jabber of Ike Behar

Head-to-toe Ike Behar (of course)
Please take notice:
1. How the tie tack is raised slightly higher than usually worn so that the tie can be "ruffled," almost how an ascot would be.
2. The slightly exaggerated cuff and heavy break on his trousers. How else would you wear a well-tailored plaid suit as such?
3. The soft, subtle shoes (both in texture and shape) that remain understated as to accentuate the clothing ensemble and set of the tie of similar color, but with more pronounced texture.

4. Bracelets, nice touch. Someone is definitely going to notice that the cuffs on this jacket are the perfect length to show of the crisp cuff of the gingham shirt, which is just bright enough in black and white to set off the muted grey suit.

5. Lapel flower is more than slighly off center so you notice the nicely sized rounded point on the collar and the deep inset that works with the plaid print.

This man has class. THIS is how you wear Ike Behar.

However, it's not just about the clothes; it's the attitude you need to pull it off. It doesn't matter if it's Forever 21 or Dolce & Gabbana—if you don't have the guts to own it, don't even go there. (See below: tattoos, neckties as bow ties, and an eight year old in head-to-toe sequins.)

Zachary Nathaniel, former CFW Emerging Designer

Instagram: @zacwithanh

Jacket & Necklace: Forever21

Top & Pants: Gap

Shoes: Vlado

Sunglasses: Vintage

Leslie Hartley
Necklace: Chanel
Jewelry/Rings: Gifted

Shoes: Store on King St. that isn't there anymore :(

Top & Skirt: Milly

Laura Boyd

Instagram: @laaaaaurrr

Rings: Various vintage/new, gifted

Shoes & Dress: Charlotte Russe

Bracelets: Urban Outfitters and Alex & Ani

Bag: H&M

Shep Rose of Bravo TV's Southern Charm

Instagram: @relationshep

Apparel: Ike Behar

Shoes: Stubbs & Wootton

Andrea Tallent, PR director at Antonio Azzuolo

Instagram: @a_tallent

Robe: Vintage

Shoes: Vintage Miu Miu

Purse: Cleobella

Leggings: J.Crew

Top: Single (vintage)

Justin Barfield

Instagram: @jthreadzzz

Shoes: T.U.K. creepers

Top: Academics

Bottoms: Dockers

Sunnies & hat: Urban Outfitters

Accessories: H&M

Adelaide

Dress: Little Miss Matched of New York City
Shoes: J.Crew
Headband: Underarmour

McKenzie Nicole Walden, Shoes.com model (Look show she rocks these Aldo heels!)

Instagram: @mckenzienicolewalden
Jacket:  Helmut Lang
Dress:  American Apparel
Shoes:  Aldo

Robert Blake, visual merchandiser at Gucci

Instagram: @robertblakester1940s Coyote Fur Jacket: Cavortress
Bracelets: Cavortress
Shoes: Gucci
Necklace: Gifted

Jessie Parks, editorial director of Charleston Grit

Instagram: @greasekellyShoes: Joie from Shoes on King
Jeans: Vintage Levis
Bag: Vintage
Hat: Goorin Bros.
Top: Vintage
Blazer: Theatrics Unlimited on King St. (closed)

Sean Barnes, student at the Art Institute of Charleston

Instagram: @uglyseananers

Top: Goodwill

Tie: Goodwill

Shoes: Prada

Belt: Izod

Cassie Baker Mizell

Instagram: @cassiemobakermizell

Top & Bottoms: Hampden Clothing
Shoes: Saks
Bag: J.Crew
Bracelets: Cartier and assorted

Charleston Fashion Week Street Style Day 1

2015-03-18T10:21:00.000-07:00

Charleston Fashion Week^® is one of my favorite Holy City events. The buzz about town for the past month has been, "What are you doing for Fashion Week? Are you going? What nights? Do you have your outfits planned? Where should we do happy hour? Where should we have dinner? Where is the afterparty? Can you walk there? How far is it?"

If you are a CFW veteran, you already know that you can’t possibly plan your outfits nightly because the weather in Charleston that surrounds the first day of spring is highly unpredictable. (Note: the combination of unpredictable weather and #chsfw makes it acceptable to wear fur in the South in March. After all, winter technically ends March 19). The reality is that you will probably not have time for happy hour because it took you too long to get ready, and it doesn’t matter how close the afterparty is—if you are wearing heels, it’s too far. That’s what a pedicab is for!

Night one at Charleston Fashion Week is always, for me, the most exciting. Tuesday night sold out, but not as fast as some of the other nights. For that reason, many attendees on Tuesday (and Wednesday, stay tuned…) are only coming that night. Of course, on Tuesday night, you will see those that are coming EVERY night—sponsors, contestants, participants. People ask me what Charleston Fashion Week^® is like. A five-day fashion event with a different vibe each night? My response is always, "It’s like a Grateful Dead concert…for fashion people…in Charleston." Drug of choice? Not brown acid, but champagne!

Toni, Stylist
Instagram: @sunflowerslace
Shoes: DSW
Bag: Vintage (from yard sale)

Blazer: H&M

Top: Nordstrom

Bottoms: Nordstrom

Bracelets: JCrew and Loft

Erin Brown, Student at CofC
Instagram: @mermaidlights

Dress: Trash & Vaudeville, St. Marks Place, NYC

Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell

Handbag: Trash & Vaudeville

Shadiquah Grant, CFW Model + Student
Instagram: @token_black_girl
Dress: Forever 21
Shoes: New Balance

Robert Blake, Visual Merchandiser at Gucci
Instagram: @robertblakester

Jacket: Express

Shoes: Cole Haan

Handbag: Cole Haan

Sunnies: Gucci

Belt: Gucci

Pants: Zara

Undies: Calvin Klein

Jewelry: Cavortress (Vintage Thai Silver)

Watch: Michael Kors

Lonnie J. Hawkins, Stylist + Blogger

Instagram: @southofyork

Rosie Doran, Student at USC

Instagram: @rosiedoranbeotch

Dress, Bag, Bracelet: Kate Spade

Shoes: Steve Madden

Necklace: Belk Tent

Tessa Silvernale, Student at CofC
Instagram: @tessagoldscrew

Jena and Marilyn, dancers at Thee Southern Belle

@badass_simba | @marilyn_stripcharleston
Dresses: Mosa Boutique

Bag: Prada

Shoes: both, Saks

Tis the Season of Festivals!

2015-03-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

As Winter comes to an end and Spring right around the corner, music festivals all over the U.S.A. are coming up. Whether its Firefly, Bonnaroo, or Electric Forest, your festival outfit should always be killer. Music festivals give people the chance to experiment with different looks that they wouldn't be able to try in their everyday life. However, when choosing your festival outfit one must take in consideration of the weather! Music festival are all day, outdoor events and a patron should be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at them. For example, an all leather outfit at Bonnaroo, where it is very hot, humid, and has no shade, would be a big no no.
Here some tips for deciding what to wear:

Closed toed shoes should be an absolute must (you're feet are going to get stepped on like crazy).
However, if you decide to wear open toed sandals, make sure they are strapped on to your feet! Spending the whole day only wearing one shoe would be a total drag!
Have an eye catching purse or fanny pack, to put your essentials in (phone, money, keys & etc.).
Have a pair of fun sunglasses; this can pull your whole outfit together and you won't be blinded by sunlight or have to wear eye makeup.
Wear clothes that are easy to jump and dance in! Concerts are no fun if you're standing around; dance like nobody is watching!
Don't be afraid of accessories! Stack on some tribal bracelets or wear a gold necklace.

Thai Spike Bracelet: $48

Turquoise Jewelry:*prices vary check website*

Leather Halter Top:$42

Silver Shorts:$68

Black & White Sunglasses: $23

Floral Sunglasses: $42

Vintage Asics Sneakers: $38

Leather Fringe Dead Stock Messenger Bag: $48

Gibbes Society 1858 Annual Winter Party Fashion Roundup-Magical Mystery Tour!

2015-02-24T22:38:00.003-08:00

The Gibbes Museum Society 1858 threw one heck of a winter party this year! Not only was everyone on board for a ride on the Magical Mystery Tour and dressed as such but there was an art action too.

Sally K. Halsey of Carriage Properties was the proud winner of this watercolor and pen & ink piece titled, 'Chaos on a Cow' by local Charleston, SC artist Richard Hagerty. At this event various works by up and coming local artists were auctioned off. We thought this one was most well suited for the Magical Mystery Tour theme and immediately caught our eye (well, the strawberry tree did). Hagerty's work will be on display at the Waterfront City Gallery this coming Fall.

We love these two ladies; Elizabeth Gumb and Kristin Romness Co-Chairs of the Gibbes Society 1858 in their psychedelic print shift dresses. Check out Elizabeth's yellow patent leather box purse (Library Vintage), scarab ring (Candyshop Vintage), platform wedge shoes (Prada), and dress by Thread Social.

Kathleen Hodgson of Charleston, SC is wearing an authentic woven wool blend suit from 1972 that her mom wore as her adieu ensemble following her wedding reception paired with tall vintage brown leather boots. The fit, the cut, the fabric; everything is still stylish today. Now that's taste that stands the test of time! One of our favorite looks of the evening.

Larry James, Distribution Coordinator at Charleston Magazine is dapper in a vintage plaid tumeric colored sharkskin blazer and skinny tie with green glass metal frames. He completes the look with modern loafers and corduroy trousers.

Rob Bouton, actor and owner of Queen Street Grocery and Lasley Steever, Director of Public Programs & Special Events at the Gibbes Museum respectively sport a vintage two tone tux and poppy printed tent dress that was her grandmother's. Doesn't get much better than this!

Andrew Steever, owner of Squarepoint Design wearing brown; including a velvet blazer, ascot, trousers, Rives' grandfather's shoes. What we love most is the white belt, which is a classic piece of style from this era but actually Andrew made the belt himself when he was a teaching assistant at FIT. He's our male fashion hero of the evening! Rives Poe, instructor at Ashley Hall, is wearing a silk caftan that was her grandmothers as well as a vintage sterling silver chain paired with Maryjanes.

Joy Sims (L) and Katherine Doe (R) sport late 1960s-early 1970s looks in Jessica Howard (a modern label offering a revival style) and a handmade embossed faille floral frock that she found on etsy. We love how she paired the purple stockings with the wine colored Maryjane wedges for a great look that would make all of the Brady girls jealous. Katherine is sporting the best of Cindy, Marsha, and Jan for sure!.

Check out this fantastic example of a men's button up caftan from the 1960s worn by Anthony DelPorto. We believe that it is a silk blend velvet and both machine and hand embroidered. It was gifted to his father-in-law by a patient who is from Iran. Who doesn't love a man in a caftan? Perfect for the party!

Katie Shayda, owner of KS Luxe Artistry is wearing a vinatge Yves St. Laurent silk scarf and Louis Vuitton bag, new bangles and House of Harlow necklace as well as a dress by Matilda Jane.

We love these two couples who are equipped with all things 1960's-1970's including tie with cardigan, knee high socks, patterned tights, vest with wide colored shirt, AND their shoe game is on point! (No pun indtended, but check out those multicolored suede flats!)

L-R: Dave Boring, Jena Clem (Gibbes Events & Rental Coordinator), Rebecca Sailor (Gibbes Curator of Education), Dave Sailor.

Brown leisure suit with white leather loafers, electric tomato red shift dress with covered button wrist closure, double breasted jacket with turtle neck, gold coin necklace, and those belts?! This group has surely got it together!
L-R: Magga and George Bullwinkel and friend.

We love the flight crew and random 'passenger'! Unfortunately, they were so busy on the dance floor we did not get the opportunity to get first name basis with them. Besides, how fun is the mile high club if you know someone's name? Groovy, Baby!

Get Your Late 1960s-Early 1970s Freak On at the Gibbes Museum Winter Party?

2015-02-18T12:20:00.001-08:00

It is tough to define what was going on in the late 1960s and early 1970s. However, many could agree that it was a wildly expansive time. What would happen on any given day was anyone’s guess. It was prime time for the Civil Rights Movement, experimentation with psychedelic drugs, as well as the physical and mental expansion of the boundaries of Fine Art and Fashion. The group 5^th Dimension forewarned everyone in their infamous song released in 1969, ‘…This is the Dawning of the Age of Aquarius.’ People already knew and felt that something was going on and it was a time for change. In 1967 the Beatles had beat them to the punch with already having everyone seated and prepared for this wild ride with the release of Magical Mystery Tour!

This Friday, February 20, the Gibbes Museum's Society 1858 (click link for tickets and details!) is similarly celebrating the changes, expansion and renovation of the Gibbes Museum in the form of their Annual Winter Party that will be held at the Wolfe Street Playhouse. What is the theme this year? You guessed it; Magical Mystery Tour! Here are some guidelines on what to wear for the style trip starting in 1967 that carried us in to the early 1970s.
There were two main styles coming out of this transitional era: Preppy and hippie. Style is more than just clothes. Below both are addressed.

Clothing for Women
Bold prints, flower power, caftans, jumpsuits, mini skirts, shift dresses, both hippie and mod squad styles:

Clothing for Men
Skinny suit, skinny tie, skinny collar and/or cardigans for the more conservative gentlemen. For the more wild hippie types anything goes but the bell bottoms must be tight and preferably velvet!

Accessories

Crazy sunglasses, matching tie tack and cufflinks, skinny ties that eventually expanded in the late 1970s with the shape of the suit, go-go boots, platforms, Mary Janes, and big belts.

Women’s Hairstyles

A head scarf (see Jackie-O). Roller set and teased hair (to include beehive-See Bridget Bardot). Or if you are going for that au natural hippie style; part it down the middle with no conditioner and add flowers, feathers, braids, and/or a floppy hat.

Mens Hairstyles

Late 1960s hair took a turn for the messier and men started to experiment with facial hair OR they just went all out (see Frank Zappa)!

Makeup

Big lashes, big eyeshadow, big eyeliner (to include the cat eye), muted lip. Some 'hippie chicks' wore facepaint.

Fashion as a Legitimate K–12 Academic Discipline? November 20, 2014

2015-02-12T08:57:00.000-08:00

When I was in high school, the only opportunity to learn about clothing and celebrate the making of it was through 4-H, which is an outside non-profit organization. Here are photos of me modeling clothing that I designed, cut, and sewed at the age of 11 and 12 for #tbt:

Fashion as an academic discipline was not a widespread idea in the late 1980s–1990s. If you were going to participate in the fashion industry, you needed to go to New York, Paris, Milan, Pratt, Parsons, FIT, or any combination of the above. It is no longer the late 1990s. Popular culture offers us Project Runway, Fashion Star, and branded clothing and perfume lines by our favorite infamous TV personalities—such as J. LO, Brittney Spears, Taylor Swift, and Justin Timberlake—in addition to the long-lasting fashion retail establishments and high-level designers. It's currently a fashion brand free-for-all!

This Saturday evening, November 22, at 7:30 p.m. at the Principle Gallery at 125 Meeting Street, the Wando High School and School of the Arts fashion program students will be assisting me with the presentation of the Fall/Winter 2014 collection that I designed, created, and arrived to present in 15 days to show as a featured designer closing night at Nashville Fashion Week earlier this year. The past four years, I have been a professor in the fashion retail management department at the Art Institute of Charleston. I believe that there is no better way to grow an industry than to involve young people in an exciting, realistic, and tangible experience with it. I am thrilled to collaborate with the young fashionistas of our local community who are enrolled in fashion-related majors in our local public school system. Students from fashion programs at both schools will assist with operations that evening—setting up the event, seating guests, organizing raffle items, styling and dressing models. Event proceeds will benefit new local fashion design programs at Wando High School and School of the Arts.
Please join us for an evening of STYLE!

General Admission Tickets are $15 in advance/$20 at the door. Standing room only.
VIP Tickets are $25 in advance/$30 at the door. Giftbag and premier seating is included in the VIP ticket price.
Beverages and an evening of style are included for all guests.

There are only 100 tickets available, and this event is expected to sell out.

Tickets can be purchased at:

The Cavortress retail location: 644-I Longpoint Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 (Belle Hall Shopping Center) between the hours of 11–6, Monday-Saturday
By phone at the retail location: 843.388.4142

Online at: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/cavortress-fall-fashion-show-fundraiser-tickets-14368120435?aff=es2&rank=1

The following items are up for auction/raffle:
Beauty product/service package from the Downtown Urban Nirvana (who is also providing hair and makeup for the event)
2 Tickets to Charleston Fashion Week on Friday
2 Tickets to the Bay Street Biergarten New Years Eve Party
2 Tickets to the Alley New Years Eve Party
2 Tickets to the Rose Ball on New Years Eve at Hagood Stadium
2 Tickets to the Charleston Museum Fashion Flashback event
A Brackish bow tie
Makeover Makeup Party from Pink Dot Beauty Bar for 6
E-design interior makeover for one room by SPOT STYLES
Weekend Stay from Elephant Insight rental properties
Jewelry Designs from both Harrison + Pike and Youngblood Originals
Event attendance at one of Lowcountry Local First's esteemed events
Gift basket from Tyler Candles
A number of food and beverage packages from local restaurants, including Red Drum, Brown Dog Deli, Eli’s Table, Rarebit, Fratello’s Trattoria, and Monza.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:
Principle Gallery
TOUT Talent
Front Row Charleston
The Art Institute of Charleston
OnTheGo Charleston
Brown Dog Deli
Coastal Cupboard
Bottles Mount Pleasant
Produce Candles
Technical Event Company
The Becket Agency
Charleston After Dark
Cougar Moving Company
Meg Workman
Nomad Travelgear
105.5 the Bridge
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5 Ways to Style Your Favorite Striped Shirt

2015-02-11T09:52:00.002-08:00

Scroll through fast ways to update your wardrobe essential!

Classic Chic Look

Adding a blazer and a bold necklace will give your striped shirt an effortless chic look. Pair with black skinny jeans and nude flats to truly pull the entire outfit together.

Hipster Look

To channel that downtown, cool girl vibe; pair the striped shirt with a fun pleated skirt and knee highs. To add a little edge to your outfit, wear grungey boots and vintage sunnies.

Laidback Look

For the lazy days where a fashionista still wants to look put together, throw on a pair of boyfriend jeans and leopard print slip-ons. Stripes and leopard print go together like PB&J!

Flirty Look

Whether its a date night or Sunday brunch downtown, a pink or pastel circle skirt will make an outfit look playful and flirty. White pumps go perfectly with a pastel circle skirt and will do wonders for your legs!

Party Look

For a Saturday night on the town a shiny ,bright colored skirt and leather jacket will make you the coolest girl at the party. Add some black heeled booties and a gold chain to pull the whole outfit together.

Find your favorite striped shirt at Cavortress!

Style at Zac Brown Band's Southern Ground Food & Music Festival, November 8, 2014

2015-02-10T09:14:00.000-08:00

At the Southern Ground Food & Music Festival, we were lucky enough to catch up with the band Run River North from Los Angeles, California, and get the lowdown on what they were wearing while performing in the Lowcountry!

Sally Kang of Los Angeles, California. Singer for Run River North.
Boots: Topshop
Skirt: Urban Outfitters
Top: American Apparel
Hat: Brixton

John Chong of Los Angeles, California. Drummer for Run River North.
Shoes: Vans
Jeans: Salvage Raw Denim
Shirt: Self-print Audrey Hepburn on American Apparel powerwash.
Glasses: Moscot Lemtosh
Watch: GShock
Bag: Kelty

Jennifer Rim of Los Angeles, California. Violinist for Run River North.
Boots: BDG
Jeans: H&M
Top: Forever 21
Belt: American Eagle
Duster: Pac Sun
Jewelry: Mom’s
Watch: Michael Kors
Necklace: Tiffany
Bag: Marc Jacobs

The Cavortress retail store was also selected to vend at the festival, and we got to meet many stylish patrons that weekend:

Adele Cisco of Charleston, South Carolina, iheartmedia.com sales.
Boots: Copper Penny
Purse: Spartina
Glasses: Ray-Ban
Earrings: Nordstrom Rack find
Watch: Lamer
Dress: ?
Nails: Studio Nails of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina
Lila Milliken of Columbia, South Caroliba.
Boots: Tony Lang
Arizona Kokopelli
Watch: Fossil
Rubies and Diamonds: Aruba
Necklace: Leo Diamonds, Fleur-de-lis, Sterling Nova
Glasses: Jessica Simpson

Lila Milliken of Columbia, South Carolin
a.
Boots: Tony Lang
Arizona Kokopelli
Watch: Fossil
Rubies and Diamonds: Aruba
Necklace: Leo Diamonds, Fleur-de-lis, Sterling Nova
Glasses: Jessica Simpson
Dress: Cavortress

Kathy of Boulder, Colorado.
Boots: Dan Post
Bag: Haunt Willsmith
Bracelet: Boutique
Hat: Betmar
Glasses: Oliver Peoples
Earrings: Boutique

Kevin of Columbia, South Carolina.
Wrap: Fluorite, petrified wood, Guatemala
Jeans: Banana Republic / Vans
Top: Friend’s

Shirt: Roper( Vintage)
Glasses: Oakley
Belt: Vintage
Jeans: Levi's
Boots: Dan Post

Fashion Archives at the Charleston Museum: Behind the Scenes with Cavortress, January 9, 2015

2015-02-07T08:49:00.001-08:00

The last time I went behind the scenes at a museum was during my internship with the Albright Knox and Burchfield Penney art galleries during my art conservation coursework at SUNY Buffalo. When I was invited to participate in the celebration to open the Charleston Museum's upcoming exhibit Fashion Flashback, 1920s–1960s: Five Decades of Style that Changed America, I was ecstatic! While curator Jan Hiester was selecting pieces for the exhibit, she invited me to join her and view the archives.

The opening party for the exhibit is Thursday, January 15 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the museum (more info and tickets HERE). Patrons can enjoy throwback music, cocktails, and food, and should come dressed in garb from their favorite era! Tickets are $25 for museum members and $35 for non-members. If you can’t make the opening party, be sure to check out the exhibit, which runs from January 12 to May 10. Shop at the Cavortress boutique in Mount Pleasant for a 20% discount on anything from the 1920s–1960s this week!

Here are some of my favorites archives from my visit to the Charleston Museum:

Real Flowers Die - Valentine's Day Gift Guide

2015-02-02T22:21:00.000-08:00

For centuries, flowers have symbolized fertility, love, marriage, and romance. The Victorian Era ushered in a time of proper etiquette among the upper class in England during Queen Victoria’s reign (1837-1901). Among the many rules and customs, there were expected behaviors that prohibited outright flirtations, questions, or conversations between others. Soon it became popular to use flowers to send secretive messages. Flowers were often utilized to relay positive messages of interest, affection and love. Flowers could also send a negative message and at times, the same flower could have opposite meanings depending on how it was arranged or delivered. Years ago, it was possible to have an entire conversation using only floral bouquets to pass on non-verbal messages.

A few years back when I was working on my Masters at Canisius, a gentleman and I were just getting to know each other. By Valentine's Day we had accomplished two successful dates and a number of enjoyable phone conversations. He asked me out to dinner on Valentine's Day at The Left Bank and arrived at the door with a bouquet that was absolutely stunning. Presented with lace ferns were: white lilies, asters, gardenias and Shasta daisies, lavender gladiolas and snapdragons, red poppies, light pink double cabbage roses and (the clincher) a red trillium. He knew I was raised as a student of both domestic and native WNY horticulture. Needless to say, I was both speechless and impressed. His sister informed me that he had gone to the library to research and procure an entire bouquet of flowers where each bloom and color had meaning. February in Buffalo, NY rendered the death of these pretties less than 2 weeks later. The bouquet was accompanied by Turkish delight chocolates (made with rose jelly) and a bottle of Stoli Vanil. 'Because chocolate is customary and in case you didn't like chocolate,' he said. This guy covered EVERY base, but didn't have to break the bank on a bouquet. I definitely LOVED it but kind of felt bad. Gladiolas in February for Valentine's Day in Buffalo? I can't imagine what that cost! Even though I know the red trillium came from his grandmother's sun room (making it a possible impossibility AND hands down, priceless); lets face it- flowers are a tremendously more expensive near Valentine's Day than any other time of the year.

Here are some unique ways to give flowers that won't die:

1. Floral Accessories
Vintage 1940s Needlework Change Purses $32:

Rose Gold Rose Thorn Earrings by Beth Coiner $125:

Thai Tribal Lotus Flower Cuff Bracelet $46:

_____________________________________________________________________

2. Floral Literature/Epherma:

Farmer's Almanac $9.99/year

Vintage 1909 German Lithograph of French Floral Upholstery Design $28

Encyclopedia of Roses: $29.95 on Amazon

_____________________________________________________________________

Floral Clothing:

Betsey Johnson Rose Dress: $128

Dolce & Gabbana Carnation Print Dress: $2545

Vintage 1990s Silk Floral Burnout Velvet Dress: $88

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4. Floral Scents:

Cool Water's Sea Rose $29

Tom Ford's Violet Blonde: $70

Bond NYC's Chelsea Flowers: $280

Streetstyle at Second Annual Good Business Summit

2014-10-25T11:40:00.002-07:00

Lowcountry Local First had their second annual Good Business Summit this past week and I was honored to attend as both a local business owner and streetstyle professional. The conference took place at the Charleston Museum and offered a star-studded lineup of successful local business professionals including restaurateur Karalee Neilsen Fallert, Adam Fetsch of Rewined, Katherine McDonald of Lula Kate, and Carrie Morey of Callie’s Biscuits. Topics such as popup shops, incubation, collaboration across industries, and brand placement were discussed.

Leigh Magar (not suprisingly, since she was nominated as one of Charleston's most stylish people) gets our style award with her fresh quirky approach to dressing for late summer with a recipe of primarily DIY; appropriate for the event.

Dress: Madam Magar (her own design) ‘Mamie’ style, hand dyed with marigolds
Bracelets: Madam Magar (her own design) created from indigo dyed scraps
Earrings: Marian at Read Brothers on King Street
Rings: Mask and leaf rings by Constantine Ramantatine of New Orleans , others family heirlooms (grandmother)
Shoes: Chie Mihara
Socks: Antipast

Carrie Montgomery
New business owner: self-serve dog wash
(Also, she is a former showcase showdown winner of the Price Is Right!)
We spotted her mid-1990s silk floral Betsey Johnson frock a mile away.
Jewelry: Love bracelet from Haute Hanger, others from the Charleston City Market

Stanfield Gray
DigSouth Founder
Shoes: Clarks (we thought they were Johnson & Murphy) Stan loves the treads and we think these shoes are badass and wish they came in black for ladies.
Shirt: Banana Republic
Jeans: Levis
Shades: Von Zipper
Belt: Brighton, model: Honest

Sara Sternz
Christophe Chocolatier
Top: Gap
Skirt: H&M
Watch: Swiss Army
Bracelet: David Yurman
Rings: Meteorite and other gifted silver rings
Shoes: Tory Burch

Ben McIntosh
Jericho Advisors
Trousers: Banana Republic
Shirt: Polo
Jacket: Polo
Shoes: Bass
Belt: Brooks Brothers

Stylish At The Edge Of America

2014-10-25T11:22:00.000-07:00

Folly Beach is known to many as "The Edge of America". It is also a favorite beach destination for vacationers and inland living locals, and wouldn’t be complete without a surfer or two.

Amy gets our style award on Folly Beach!
James Island
Suit: Victoria's Secret
Glasses: Gucci
Engagement ring: Croghan's custom piece, other ring is a family heirloom

Anthony
Instructor, Charleston Surf Lessons
Charleston
Shorts/Rash Guard: Uniforms made for Charleston Surf Lessons
Hat: Hawaii
Flip-flops: Reef

Colleen
Hampton, New Jersey
Glasses: Urban Outfitters
Suit: Modcloth

Joe
Hampton, New Jersey
Shorts: Patagonia
Glasses: Oakley

Emily
Athens, Georgia
Suit: Marc Jacobs
Sunglasses: Raybans
Ring: Aquamarine by James Mitchell, purchased at Cheeky Peach
Earrings: Brighton

Dalton
Athens, Georgia
Shorts: Chubbies
Glasses: Reds
Necklace: His mom’s

Paul
Charlotte, North Carolina
Glasses: Lake Norman (at his own shop, where he is an optician)
Bandana: Target

Tracee
Charleston
Shorts: Levi’s (she distressed them herself)
Top: Walmart
Earrings/Glasses: JC Penney’s
Polish: OPI (Hugs & Kisses)

Streetstyle at Artfields

2014-10-25T11:12:00.002-07:00

Artfields is a unique art competition and celebration held in the historic community of Lake City, South Carolina in approximately 50 venues offering $100,000 in prizes to over 200 visual artists who were juried for participation.

My first assignment after a 12 year writing hiatus was a tough one. Mind you, many ‘visual artist types’ (mostly) hate being photographed. Often, their work speaks volumes worth more than 1,000 words and would rather have their work looked at than picture taken.

Micheal Rooks of Atlanta, GA. Curator at the High Museum of Art and also Judge at Artfields.
Michael was almost excited to have his picture taken but also chosen as our event/outing Stylestar. He brings a fresh, modern, southern, sensible approach to weekend outdoor/indoor casual style as a creative professional. The clear glasses? Perfect choice for showing off baby blues. Sambas? Never out of style; always classic. White jeans can be entirely wrong for either gender but he hands down, nails it.

Glasses: Cutler & Gross
Shirt: Billy Reid
Shoes: Adidas
Jeans: Levi’s
Necklace: Done by Frank Zappa’s daughter and is a photo transfer of Lanikai Beach, Hawaii that he purchased on vacation there.

Marquette Folley of Washington, DC. Project Director of the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service and also Judge at Artfields. Marquette was spotted for sporting sensible pieces blending texture, craftsmanship, and shape.

Shirt: Ann Taylor
Skirt: JCrew
Belt: Thrifted
Shoes: Crocs
Earrings: the Smithsonian gift shop in DC
Bracelets: (left) African inspired bone (right) sterling West African both; from the Smithsonian gift shop in DC.

Juan Logan of Belmont, NC. Artist/Judge at Artfields. Lake City, SC. Glasses: ‘Cabyos’ by Winchester
Jeans: Levi’s
Shirt: L.L. Bean
Shoes: Nike

To our surprise, Mosaic, a new boutique in Lake City offers a variety of designer goods such as Trina Turk, Derek Lam, and Madeline Birger in a well edited yet stocked collection. Not to mention the physical space is gorgeous as well.
Anne Norwood of Mosaic Boutique, Lake City, SC.
Short skirt and a Loooong Jacket.
Dress/Cardi: Magaschoni
Bracelet: Kenneth J. Lane
Earrings: Dannijo
Ring: David Yurman

-and-
Sherri Gore of Mosaic Boutique,
Simple, classic blue jeans and white blouse.
Blouse: Bella Dahl
Necklace: Megan Park
Jeans: Jbrand
Earrings: Classic 14K hoops.

We love artist couples!
Carey Morton of Piedmont, SC. Artist.
Shoes/Glasses: Thrifted
Shirt: JCrew
Necklace: Tiger tooth from trip to Thailand

Kaitlyn Walters of Piedmont, SC. Artist.
Shoes: Rue 21
Dress/glasses: Thrifted

Robert Maniscalco of, Charleston, SC. Artist/winner of Artfields Portrait competition.
Entire ensemble: WORN, (Mt. Pleasant, SC boutique)

Cate Maniscalco of Charleston, SC. Artist/sales associate at SEE on King Street, Charleston, SC.
Dress: Little Spy
Earrings: Atlanta street artist
Sunglasses: Vintage Armani
Necklace: Charleston estate sale
Bracelets: Loki bracelets
Purse: Ebay
Boots: Ensemble, (James Island, SC boutique)

John Cotner of Sumter, SC. Artist.
Shirt: Tom Cruise
Shorts: Arnold Palmer
Socks: German Easter Bunny motif
Glasses: Custom made oxhorn, NYC
Shoes: Fila
Watch: Timex

Barbara Nwokike, Board Member of South Carolina Arts Commission/Owner of Gallery Chuma, Charleston, SC.
Shoes: From Phillips; Franco Sarto
Jewelry: Sterling from West Africa

Karole Turner Campbell of Charleston, SC. Artist.
Pants/Top: H&M
Cardigan: Wilt
Bracelet: Candace Hunter, Jawbone of Chicago (black one)
All other jewelry: Artist’s own.
Shoes: Steve Madden

Dedrick Smith, Lake City, SC. Assistant Manager, Table 118

Shirt: Dolce

Jeans: Seven
Belt: Kenneth Cole
Watch: Tag Heuer

Shoes: Nike

Looking Back on Counterpoint- view from a Cavortress intern

2012-10-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

As a Cavortress intern I have been fortunate enough to take part in various fabulous events! My name is Meghan Bowes and I am a Senior at the College of Charleston. One of my favorite experiences thus far has been attending Counterpoint music festival. Cavortress headed to Atlanta, Georgia September 27-29. There we were a part of 3 days of house, dub, and electronic madness with artists such as Skrillex, Pretty Lights, Lotus, and so many more! As venders we had full access to the VIP sections putting us front row for the shows and kicking it in the lavish VIP tent.

Julie and I hitting up the VIP tent

Cavortress was vending 24/7 rocking the hot pink Cavortress tent filled with crazy fabulous vintage everything! Despite a minor setback from a whirlwind storm, the trip was a total success. Luckily we were able to keep the inventory dry and were back in action in no time. We gave the Counterpoint fans the vintage they needed to top off their crazy outfits!

Vintage Cavortress belts! Just some of the great stuff we were selling.

Check out some of the pictures I managed to capture during the mayhem that was Counterpoint...

A view of the crowd from the front row during pretty lights! Check out all those totems

Word on the street is Cavortress is heading to New Orleans for Voodoo next!!
Check back to learn more about our Halloween festivities!

Interesting Eats

2012-10-09T14:28:00.001-07:00

This is a perfect way to mix up your next get together with friends or family! I am always looking for new and different appetizers to entertain with instead of the same old cheese and crackers. Why not have food that is not only delicious, but also a conversation piece? This is one of my favorites because it is unique and delectable! Not to mention it looks beautiful!

Left:

Strawberries, walnuts, dried apricots, multigrain bread with Ajvar hot pepper spread, and New York cheddar (white and yellow).

Right:

Breseaola, wasabi peas, and dark chocolate dusted almonds.

My Vintage Collection on Etsy!

2012-09-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

1. Early 1990's Red Leather Flats: Super comfortable Vintage Sam & Libby flats! Genuine leather, manmade sole, and made in Brazil.

2. 1950/60's Ivory Lace Cutwork Blouse: This unique and fabulous 100% silk blouse has exquisite detailing and is in impeccable condition! It has handmade silk frog closures, covered buttons on cuffs, and delicate scalloping on cuffs.

3. Early 1990's Dolce & Gabbana Floral Bustier Dress: This adorable sundress has the classic fitted, tailored, and flattering Dolce and Gabbana style. Features include wire cupped bust, boning on sides, side zipper, and adjustable straps. Yellow hydrangeas and cabbage roses on print.

4. 1960's Venetian Lace Raw Silk Light Pink Dress: This 100% raw silk dress is lined with linen to keep its structured shape. It is hand tailored and exceptionally made with its flattering princess seaming at the front and back and delicate venetian lace down the front.

5. 1950's Red Velvet Cocktail Hat: Spice up your wardrobe with this funky yet classic piece! The cocktail hat has French veil netting and decorative bows on both sides. Also in excellent condition!

6. Early 1980's Fine Cotton Weave Pink Blouse: For your everyday try out this loose fitting, lightweight, feminine blouse. This Linnay piece has two functional pockets on the breasts, cap sleeves, and a slight shirt tail hem.

For more details on the items above and to view a larger selection from my vintage collection check out Cavortress on Etsy! Purchase your favorites while they're still available and check back to catch the latest items before they're gone!!

Cavortress

Florals for Spring...Groundbreaking

Charleston Fashion Week Street Style Day 3

Charleston Fashion Week Street Style Day 2

Charleston Fashion Week Street Style Day 1

Tis the Season of Festivals!

Gibbes Society 1858 Annual Winter Party Fashion Roundup-Magical Mystery Tour!

Get Your Late 1960s-Early 1970s Freak On at the Gibbes Museum Winter Party?

Fashion as a Legitimate K–12 Academic Discipline? November 20, 2014

5 Ways to Style Your Favorite Striped Shirt

Classic Chic Look

Hipster Look

Style at Zac Brown Band's Southern Ground Food & Music Festival, November 8, 2014

Fashion Archives at the Charleston Museum: Behind the Scenes with Cavortress, January 9, 2015

Real Flowers Die - Valentine's Day Gift Guide

1. Floral AccessoriesVintage 1940s Needlework Change Purses $32:

2. Floral Literature/Epherma:

4. Floral Scents:

Streetstyle at Second Annual Good Business Summit

Stylish At The Edge Of America

Streetstyle at Artfields

Looking Back on Counterpoint- view from a Cavortress intern

Interesting Eats

My Vintage Collection on Etsy!

1. Floral Accessories
Vintage 1940s Needlework Change Purses $32: