Estrella Modas*

New Format.......

2012-03-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Thank you for reading my blog, don't worry, I am going to continue blogging but in a different site. I am now part of the Chicago Now blogger family-Don't worry, Estrella Modas is still continuing but at a different URL. You can now read my postings at http://www.chicagonow.com/estrella-modas.

Same writer, still all about our upcoming stars in the fashion industry, it won't change except for the site address!! So come on, click on my new site and continue reading Estrella Modas*, where we keep an eye out for the stars of fashion of tomorrow!!!!!!

Our mascot is a little bit older now......

Stella*

Borris Powell's "Without a Shadow of Doubt"

2012-03-22T10:31:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday I had the privilege to attend Borris Powell's Fall/Winter 2012 "Without a Shadow of Doubt" fashion show at the River East Art center!!! I know I took so long to write this post, but honestly I am still bedazzled by the garments that were shown here!!!! First, the River East Art center is breathtaking. This place is honestly beautiful and just refreshing for a show. There even was a shop located inside the facility where they were selling clothing from Borris, and Strut Boutique (which was also featured in the show).

Before the Show......Yes it is my fab photography

Picture by Mitchell Canoff for ChicagoNow (you can tell it is not my picture)

The amazing LaTonya Williams (Chicago's next It girl) and Designer Katherine Walker

Chicago fashionistas all came out to celebrate Borris's newest collection. Designers such as GOCA's Omar Villalobos and Katherine Walker were in attendance. Also our Chicago Fashion Incubator resident designer LaTonya Williams came out to celebrate her mentor Borris. The hosts of the show included the fab Candid Candace and NBC's Marcus Riley. Even Chicago Bear Rashied Davis was in attendance for this MUST show.

Strut Boutique

The show started with Strut Boutique, which I may add has FANTASTIC garments. I was in awe with many of their clothes and wished I could fit in them. Borris made his entrance in a red Ferrari! Then the show continue with his timeless, sophisticated by fun garments. Overall, a great experience and an amazing show. But from Borris, that is always expected. I am looking forward towards his next show!!! Remember if it is Borris Powell, you know that it will be a show to remember.

Picture from Mitchell Canoff from ChicagoNow

Chicago's Couturier, Thierry Roger

2012-03-14T15:08:00.000-07:00

One of Thierry Roger's custom dresses

I just got the opportunity to interview Chicago's own couture designer, Thierry Roger. Couture fashion and Chicago are two that are not always directly linked; but Thierry is here to change that. He creates one-a-kind looks for his clients, therefore you will never be in a "who wore it better" contest!! Everyone make way for Chicago's couturier....

Me: Tell me a little about yourself? Why did you enter fashion design?

Thierry: I was always interested in Fashion even as a child. My mother was a painter and she put me through Art School and later I got an apprentice position with the house of Guy Laroche where I learned a lot.

Me: Wow, that is extremely prestigious. Why did you start your line in Chicago of all places?

T: It was a question of chance and I was lucky but it took me a few years to learn about Chicago "style" (insert LOL).

One of Thierry Roger's signature gowns

Me: What about your work differentiates you from other designers?

T: I do not follow trends, for me trends do not last and do not make someone look "special." I love classic and timeless looks and I am good at it so I stick to it.

Me: Why did you decide to go into couture design in oppose to mass-merchandise designing?

T: I did sell ready to wear years ago for Henri Bendel and Barneys and also boutiques around Chicago; but I never really cared to see my garments on a rack in different sizes. I discovered later the Custom Made business and fell in love with the relationship that I have between the client and the garment.

More Thierry Roger's one-of-a-kind designs

Me: Which pieces that you have created do you feel are your best work and why?

T: I love to design cocktail dresses and suits, those are 2 strong looks I really like to do.

Me: What about Chicago makes you want to stay and continue designing here in oppose to other states or countries?

Love this jacket from Thierry Roger

T: After learning what fashion was about in Chicago I really felt a connection with the city and its style, 22 years later I am still here!!

Me: Any advice for students who want to design couture clothing?

T: Find your niche and once you found it stick to it, there is a lot of competition out there and you need to stand out. Use every mistake you made as a learning experience.

Classic and timeless looks

Thank you Thierry and again I love your timeless, one-of-a-kind, beautiful creations. You are sincerely a gem of our great city!!!

This Sunday.......Borris Powell showcases his 2012 Fall/Winter Collection

2012-03-12T08:25:00.000-07:00

Sunday March 18th from 5:30pm (for VIP) and General Admission from 6:30pm, is the Borris Powell's Fall/Winter 2012 Collection!!!! Come and see why this designer won the 2011 Oscar Designer Challenge!!! This event is takes place at the River East Art Center (435 E. Illinois) and tickets start at $110 for VIP (10% goes to a local charity; other VIP highlights include complimentary drinks before & after show, and a gift bag), General admission tickets are $40 (standing room only)!!! The show will also feature his brand new men's collection!! Come and be in awe with this fashion star!!!! Get tickets at http://www.uvidy.com/borrispowell

The Queen of the Curve......Shavonne Dorsey

2012-03-07T16:43:00.000-08:00

Being a curvaceous lady myself, I got extremely giddy when I got the chance to interview Chicago's Fashion Incubator alumni Shavonne Dorsey. I proclaimed Shavonne as the Queen of the Curve due to her devotion to designing for the everyday lady; one with curves. So enjoy the interview and become a member of her growing group of fans!!!

Me: Can I have a little information on your background? Growing up, what were your dreams?

Shavonne: Originially I'm from Indiana and obtained my Bachelors from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. My background was in corporate healthcare and laboratory sales, but Fashion design was always a dream of mine. Grouping up my dreams were to become a successful, productive and prosperous person regardless of my career choice.

Me: What inspired you to go into fashion design? Especially designing for curvy women?

S: As a size 14 woman myself, I always had challenges in finding garments that were flattering, womanly but yet still youthful enough without looking matronly. The frustration of NEVER finding what I wanted or needed in fashion from national retailers was the stimulus that started my career in fashion design. As a curvy woman, I experienced the struggle to dress myself without always wearing black or looking older than my age. Instead of continuing to accept what retailers offered and going to boutiques who didn't carry garments past a size 10/12, I decided to design garments that were complimentary to my curves and celebrated the beautiful shape that I have.

My Fave Shavonne Dorsey Dress!! Love it!!

Me: Thank you for that (designing to celebrate our curves). Why did you decide to start designing and showcased your collections here in Chicago?

S: Chicago has always been known as the "2nd City." It's definitely a great city to start your career in fashion. Chicago's fashion scene is usually known to be somewhat conservative and was often labeled as safe. I wanted to introduce something new, exciting and bold to curvaceous women in a conservative city. In spite of the difference of what was considered the "norm" in Chicago, my designs were quickly embraced, adored and purchased by plus-size women everywhere in the city and surrounding suburbs!

Elegant and sophisticated!!! Not to mention slimming

Me: What are your thoughts on the current fashion industry not concentrating on the majority of the population (curvy women)?

S: Interesting, you say the majority which is absolutely true. Over 70% of American women are a size 14, but less than 20% of retailers cater to this woman, which is me and thousands of women everywhere in the USA. The human female body expands very differently after a size 8, so most designers and retailers would rather not learn how to dress it. I think the fashion industry is truly starting to open their eyes and see the mas number of women who are in need of beautiful, fashion-forward, plus-sized clothing that don't make them look larger or older AND are willing to patronize businesses who offer it! It's a new day and designers (like myself) gladly accept the challenge to dress curvaceous, plus-size women to make them look more beautiful than ever before.

Cute and fun, for a night out with the girls!!!

Me: Any upcoming events, shows that you will be participating in?

S: Yes there are!!!

On March 24, I will be at the Red Pump Project at the Society Art Gallery -2140 W. Fulton Street here in Chicago. It is from 6-9 pm. Can buy tickets at link: http://www.theredpumpproject.org/2012/02/get-tickets-for-the-rock-the-red-fashion-show-hosted-by-kim-coles/

April 21, The Shavonne Dorsey Trunk show will be taking place at Boutique Larrieux at 315 N. Milwaukee in Milwaukee Wisconsin.

May 19, at the Dangerous Curves Ahead Charity Fashion Show at the Zhou B Art Center at 1029 W. 35th Street in Chicago.Can buy tickets at link: http://www.dangerouscurvesahead.org/

June 13-16, I will be at the New York Full Figured Fashion Week!!!!! http://www.fffweek.com/2012/home

Me: Wow you are busy!!! What are your plans for the future?

S: My plans for the future are to continue to design beautiful garments for curvaceous women in the USA and across the globe. There are plans in the works now for further business expansion in the south as well as in other national and international areas.

The Queen of the Curve knowing how to showcase our curves with this dress!

Me: Where can curvy women such as myself purchase your fab designs?

S: www.shavonnedorsey.com

To view or purchase any looks on the new spring collection (or any past designs) please call 312-636-6137 or send us an email at shavonne@shavonnedorsey.com. The designs retail from $235-$350. Each client receives free shipping and a gift with their order. For curvaceous women that are searching for a bit of exclusivity, Shavonne Dorsey Inc. also provides custom, one-of-a-kind dresses. Clients can get their own unique dresses designed exclusively for their shape. My clients are able to select from several fabric selections to create a look just for them. It is definitely one of my favorite ways to dress clients.

Me: Wow, making us feel royal too!!!! Thank you Shavonne and women everywhere are thanking you for helping put curvy on the fashion map!!!!

Stella*

HALF STACK MAGAZINE IS HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!

2012-03-05T15:20:00.000-08:00

Want a fresh new magazine that focuses on Chicago and Chicago artists, events and style? Visit Half Stack!!! A funny, inspiration magazine that brings all the local news to your screen!! Half Stack covers everything our city offers including the arts, music, drama, fashion and food (my fave)!! Visit Half Stack @ http://issuu.com/halfstackmag/docs/hsm_master_spring2012-march5/77

End of Winter Looks....Buy Local

2012-02-28T12:54:00.000-08:00

Winter started a little late this year, the best part about that is we can continue wearing our winter clothing!! Bad part is that it means Summer will also start later. Let's not let the gloominess and cold get to us, let continue looking fab this winter. That is why I am listing my local designer Winter finds!!! You love to shop at the local farmers market, why not shop for your clothing locally? Here is a list of my fave Winter local designer finds.

Lara Miller

I am a HUGE fan of this Eco-friendly and versatile designer. One accessory that I cannot stop drooling over is her Sally Turban Headband. This headpiece is Eco-friendly and being 90% bamboo, Eco-friendly dry cleaning is recommended. It was hand-loomed here in Chicago!!! A must buy!! Look fashionable and stay warm with this gem! http://www.laramiller.net/product-details.asp?id=117&catid=22

Anna Hovet

The next find is called the Julie Sweatshirt by local street wear comfort designer Anna Hovet. Any time I see comfort associated with a designer, I am running towards their online or physical store. This sweater looks extremely warm and cozy, but also very sexy and chic at the same time. I am definitely going to be looking posh with this sweater!! It also has front pockets a must for any mama!!! http://www.annahovet.com/buy-julie-sweatshirt.html

Sophia Reyes

I am absolutely in awe with sophisticated silk dress by designer Sophia Reyes. It has a Grecian look to it which is very flattering on all body shapes. This dress can be worn with a cardigan for a work-look or by itself with a pair of nice stilettos for a night out on the town. A dress that can help me look slimmer and can be worn for work or out is a great find!!! http://www.sophiareyes.com/boutique/DRESSES/Underarmsilkdress.html

More looks to come....keep an eye out :-)

So what are you doing next weekend?? Join me!!!!

2012-02-24T12:00:00.000-08:00

You are joining me at the Impeccable Style & Beauty Workshops!!! Hosted by celebrity wardrobe stylist/ personal shopper Tamika Martell-Price & celebrity make-up artist/beauty expert Niehla O; these workshops will show you how to incorporate Spring trends into your classic wardrobe and how to do a fab face (make-up and all) in just 15 minutes!!! I am in desperate need of both (especially with the post-baby body) and cannot wait to attend. .

These workshops take place next Friday March 2 from 6-9pm at 2341 S. Michigan Ave, Suite 2R. General Admission (which includes the workshops, 1 wine ticket and light appetizers) is only $25. VIP tickets (which include exclusive shopping discounts, the workshops, light appetizers, wine, a champagne toast and a brag-worthy gift bag) is ONLY $35!!!! You can get tickets http://impeccablestylebeauty.eventbrite.com/

Include this event into your planner and I will see you all there!!!! Let's get beautified together!

What happening around Chi??? Starting with Tomorrow!!!

2012-02-22T12:02:00.000-08:00

Who can say that Chicago has nothing going on??? IT IS IMPOSSIBLE!! There is NEVER a day that doesn't have any type of event! That starts with tomorrow.

Raw, which is a independent arts organization that promotes local upcoming artists, is hosting a showcase tomorrow night called Activate, Thursday Feb 23rd. In these showcases, be prepared to be wowed with a film screening, musical performance, fashion show, art gallery, performance art and a featured hairstylist and makeup artist. These artists are all local, hand-picked talent who have been chosen to feature at RAW. Make a date out of it, it is very affordable being only $10 presale and $15 at the door. The event starts at 8pm at the Double Door (1572 N. Milwaukee Ave). See you all there!!! www.RAWartists.org/chicago/activate

This weekend, the Red Carpet Concierge of Chicago along with DeWitt Place-Extend Stay are featuring " A Night in the Newsroom." This event is showing and reporting on our 84th Oscars this Sunday from 6pm-till the end of the Oscars. Taking place at 900 North DeWitt Place. It is a complimentary event!! YEY!! They are also providing complimentary appetizers and cocktails!! Also featuring reporters such as Caroline de Athey and Diane Crawford. A don't miss event!! Come and celebrate the Oscars with The Red Carpet Concierge of Chicago and DeWitt Place!!!!

A Shout out to Chicago's Own Tiffany Parker!!!!

2012-02-19T09:16:00.000-08:00

Chicago's own Tiffany Parker is the reigning Ms. Maryland US!!! Congrats!!!! Tiffany was born and raised in the South Side of Chicago and never stopped striving for her dreams!!! Other than being a pageant queen, Tiffany has been a model and a entrepreneur; she is the owner of Vois Beaute Modeling Agency!!! All I can say is WE WANT YOU BACK!!!! Come and be Ms. Illinois US!!!! Congratuations again Tiffany!

Are you a Backer???

2012-02-15T11:33:00.000-08:00

I am a backer for Half Stack Magazine.....Are you???? It is not too late to become one!!!!

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/halfstackmag/halfstack-magazine-launch?ref=email

Guess which Chicago designer was featured @ NY Fashion Week

2012-02-11T12:49:00.000-08:00

This Thursday Feb.9, the Diet Pepsi Style Studio Runway Show taking place during New York Fashion Week, featured our hometown girl; Elise Bergman. Elise Bergman was featured in this star-filled event, along with Project Runway Alum Shirin Askari and other designers from around the country. Each designer spotlighted 3 fall looks infused with their unique hometown perspective.

The Diet Pepsi Style Studio Runway Show gives 4 upcoming American designers a chance to showcase their talents at the star-studded event at the Lincoln Center. This year Chicago was represented with Elise Bergman being chosen. Elise rocked the runway with her designs wowing our East coast friends. Another fab event highlighting local Chicago talent!!!!

What's happening around town........

2012-02-08T07:26:00.000-08:00

Due to my bummed foot, I have been unable to attend any fashion events around town; but that shouldn't stop you from gifting others with your presence!! The first event is TONIGHT!!! So hurry and get those tickets. It is called Valentine at the Victor! For us ladies it is only $10, sorry men, for you it is $20! It includes a complimentary champagne bar from 6-7pm, CHOCOLATE (darn I can't go) and even a fashion show highlighting some key Chicago designers such as Horatio Nieto, Borris Powell and Anna Fong. To get tickets please visit: http://valentineatvictor.eventbrite.com/

Next event takes place next week (so you have time) to get tickets!! It is called Fashion for a Cause. What better than giving back during this time of love (duh, Valentines in case you forgot). This event takes place at the House of Blues, next Thursday Feb 16th from 6-9pm. It is a fashion show featuring designers such as Borris Powell (he is everywhere), Sheela Patel, and even the fab Taneasha Prunty of GIDI. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door. It includes drinks and appetizers. It will make you feel all warm and cozy knowing that part of those proceeds (costs of the tickets) goes back to Maryville Academy Crisis Nursery & Children's Healthcare. Come and spread your love to this fun and philanthropic event. Tickets can be purchased at this link:

https://dnbweb1.blackbaud.com/OPXREPHIL/EventDetail.asp?cguid=D755E5C4-529E-40A6-8367-D3BE1D6735CE&eid=40476&sid=881B4C77-3838-47B2-A04B-A4C7104ADE98

Feb.....time still to Support Half Stack Magazine and even join in for some Fun!!!

2012-02-05T15:02:00.000-08:00

Half Stack Magazine still has 18 days to go (from today) before their deadline is up!! Therefore you, readers who care deeply about our thriving fashion industry here in Chicago, have 18 days to donate any amount, starting from $1 to help this publication become a actual written publication!!!! The link is below, make sure to donate and help this Magazine get it's start!!!!

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/halfstackmag/halfstack-magazine-launch

Also, the fab Half Stack Magazine is having a HUGE launch party on Thursday March 8 @ 8pm at Dueces & The Diamond Club. Everyone is invited!!!!! It costs $30, but a portion of that goes right back to our community; to Live Out Loud Charity-a nonprofit that is dedicated to suicide prevention and youth empowerment. Information is in the link below!!! The $30 also covers a Fashion show showcasing designs from Brooke Conrady of Blank National Apparel & 3 hours of open bar (insert smiley face here)-great deal!! Hope everyone goes (link is below)

http://www.facebook.com/events/273217646077395/#!/events/273217646077395/

The Charles James Exhibit @ Chicago History Museum=INSPIRATION

2012-01-31T06:47:00.000-08:00

This past Friday I had the privilege to attend the Charles James exhibit at the Chicago History Museum. Let me just say: INSPIRATIONAL. First, American fashion designers are NOT known for couture designs, but this man totally changed that one-sided view about American designers. All his designs (by the way the Chicago History Museum has the majority of the FEW designs of his that still exist today) were CAT scanned and that scan showed the museum goer the complexity & intensity that this man worked with-WOW!!!!

Image from the Chicago History Museum

First, he did attend college, but the majority of his one-of-a-kind difficult techniques (that many designers today do not use due to the complexity) were self-learned. This man was a genius, he knew how to make a women feel like if she was the only woman in the world, his work bought out the best features in these women (don't worry, they could afford it, in the 1950's his pieces were being sold at $15,000 minimum a garment-elite women they were). Since his clothing was couture (except for a few mass-merchandise lines), there were only 1 of each garment, except for that gray suit that Angelina Jolie wore in the Tourist movie, there was also one in the exhibit.

The Charles James Suit from the Tourist (google image)

Going through the collection, just seeing the faces of my students light up while examining these stellar designs, I could almost feel them getting inspired to start their own masterpieces, making me even more enthused to help them achieve those masterpieces. Although Charles James did have a sad ending to his story, died moneyless and alone; he still is stirring the hearts of people today. Charles James will forever live in his inimitable pieces and in our hearts forever. He is still one of the best American designers ever and through his designs he is helping the growth of future American designers. Visit this exhibit before it ends in April!!

People Focus: Raven the Founder (genius) Behind Chicago Fashion Connect

2012-01-26T06:58:00.000-08:00

I just got the opportunity to interview Raven, the founder behind Chicago Fashion Connect. I was very excited, since I am a HUGE fan of this organization that helps people in the Chicago Fashion Industry network with one another and to become noticed for their talent.

Me: What made you decide to create Chicago Fashion Connect? Tell us a little more about Chicago Fashion Connect (CFC)?

Raven: There is so much talent in Chicago, it's a big city with a lot of artists and designers who work hard and create great work, beautiful clothing and jewelry. It's unfortunate that not all of them are known or getting the recognition that they deserve. CFC was created to address some of the hurdles that aspiring talent face when it comes to getting their name known and breaking into the industry.

Pictures from CFC Networking Event, provided by Aaron Kissman

The mission of Chicago Fashion Connect is to place the fashion industry in the cultural spotlight by promoting emerging talent and create opportunities for fashion entrepreneurs to network, collaborate and grow. In the light of that mission CFC has been hosting networking events, as well as doing coverages of fashion events around the city, doing interviews with designers and photographers.

Me: Why did you decide to stay in Chicago for your fashion career?

Raven: There is a lot of potential here.

Me: What are some upcoming events you will be hosting?

Raven: One of the upcoming events is the February Industry mixer on Feb 7th. The event is meant to create an encouraging and friendly setting for industry people to meet other fashion-minded professionals, network, find opportunities for future work or collaboration. To help guests to find the right contacts that they are looking for, we have color coded all the name tags. Designers are a light blue, models are yellow, photographers are green and etc. This way, if you're looking for someone in particular, for example a photographer for an upcoming photoshoot, all you have to do is scan the room for green colored tags.

Photo from CFC Event, by Aaron Kissman

Me: What are your future goals for Chicago Fashion Connect?

Raven: Future plans right now is to grow bigger and better; create more opportunities in the industry, showcase designers, organize and host more events and expand the blog. CFC is also open for partnerships and collaborations, anyone wanting to work with us, reach out and let us know who you are.

Me: What inspires you about Chicago Fashion?

Raven: As I mentioned before there is a lot of potential in Chicago. There is a lot that has not been done here yet and a lot of room to grow; and that is inspiring.

Thank you Raven!!!!

Chicago Fashion Connect does it again......February Industry Mixer

2012-01-25T16:00:00.000-08:00

The astonishing Chicago Fashion Connect is hosting another Fashion Industry Mixer this February!! The event takes place on Tuesday February 7th from 7-9pm at the BLT American Brasserie. The cost to partake in this event starts at $15 for students, $15 early bird special just till Jan 31st (so get tickets now), $25 after Jan 31st and $30 at the door.

The Industry mixers that Chicago Fashion Connect hosts allows individuals in our Chicago Fashion Industry to network with one another. This networking event also features creative designer Thierry Roger, you can even meet him here!!!The mixers are a lot of fun, you meet a lot of fashion-orientated individuals and don't worry, there is even a wine open bar and appetizers!! Come and see what this popular event is all about. Just go to this site and get your tickets today!! http://fashionmixer-feb2012-esearch.eventbrite.com/?srnk=1

Cool New Styling Website!! A Must Visit!!!!!!!!!

2012-01-24T06:54:00.000-08:00

Attention Fashion Guru's, there is a new website, Stylitics, that basically keeps track of your entire wardrobe for you! You add all the different stores you go to, all your favorite outfits and you can even plan what you do for the day!! It is sooo fun and let me tell you addicting!! Also, the more items you add and outfits you check-in, the points you accumulate-so you can possibly win prizes!! (What can be better??? having fun and winning fashionable goods?)

Here are directions on how to get on!!! Go to Stylitics.com and enter your code (modas) and create your account. Then enjoy and have fun!!!! Let me know how it goes for you!!!

Help Half Stack Achieve their dreams......

2012-01-22T20:17:00.000-08:00

The fab editors of the upcoming Half Stack magazine need your help!!! In order to finish the website and to print the magazine by it's launch date in March, Half Stack needs to raise money to complete those objectives. Visit this site and see how the magazine came about and donate what you can to make these ladies dreams come true...plus you will get a whole NEW magazine unlike any other Chicago-based publications.

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/halfstackmag/halfstack-magazine-launch?ref=video

The inspirational editors @ Half Stack

Make Chicago's Presence Available at NY Fashion Week!!!!!!!!

2012-01-19T06:19:00.000-08:00

One of the best qualities that the Chicago Fashion Industry shares is our ability to help one another out in a time of need!! As we all have heard (unless you haven't been listening) that the Chicago-based fashion label GOCA (created by Gordana Rasic & Omar Villalobos) has been invited to showcase their collection at New York Fashion Week!! (what an honor). Unfortunately, it costs money to be a part of Fashion Week in New York. Therefore, there is a fundraiser being held to raise money for this pair to show New York what Chicago offers!!!

The event is on Friday January 27th, at the NV Penthouse Lounge (116 W. Hubbard St) from 6-9pm. Tickets are JUST $10 before 7pm, and $15 after 7. All proceeds will go to GOCA!!! That includes a free drink (YEY)!! Come and support your Chicago fashion industry!! Lets help GOCA take New York by storm!!!!

Chicago Based Company making a Difference!

2012-01-17T06:17:00.000-08:00

A Five Accessories Product

I am all for non-profit, so when I hear about a Chicago based company creating a fashionable good that gives back, it's very exciting!!!! Five Accessories is a social enterprise that sells fairly traded and Eco friendly handbags, recycled purses and sustainable jewelry. This company sources their items from needy countries such as Bali, Honduras, Cambodia and India. Plus they also keep us in mind, also sourcing items from needy areas of the United States. What is so amazing about this company is that their goal is to deliver sustainable livelihoods for their workers and their communities. So instead of what other companies do, just give items away to the needy, they teach and hire them to produce products for them! Like they say, you give a man a fish, they eat for a day; you teach them how to fish, they will eat forever.

An employee creating jewelry for Five Accessories

One of the recycle mosquito net totes

Five Accessories has created an income generating program in Chicago called Off the Street. Five Accessories are using urban refuse recycled off the street and helping those, many formerly homeless, stay off the street through gainful employment. Just knowing what this company is doing, the difference they are creating, makes me want to just go on a spending spree!!!! Five Accessories has very affordable prices, a cute bamboo handbag is only $25! Recycled mosquito net totes at $25!!!! Very unique and distinct items that are very chic!

Bamboo handbag only $25!!!

Make sure to check out their website and videos, https://www.fiveaccessories.com/

Have fun shopping and knowing that by completing your fave past-time activity, you are doing good in the world!!!

Fun Events....Starting with One TONIGHT!!!! HURRY & GO!!!

2012-01-13T14:29:00.000-08:00

So tonight Chicago-based Akira is hosting a Fashion show at the Vertigo Sky Lounge at The Dana Hotel & Spa!!! Hurry.....it starts at 9pm and best of it, it is FREE!!!!

Also, coming up in February is Chicago Fashion Connects monthly fashion industry networking event!! This industry mixer is featuring the couturier Thierry Roger! Cannot wait!! The mixer is ONLY $15 up till Jan 31st (so hurry and get your passes), after that it is $25 while being $15 for students and $30 at the door. This mixer is taking place at the BLT American Brasserie!! For more information and to get your tickets, click on the link!
http://fashionmixer-feb2011.eventbrite.com/ See you all there!

Coming Soon (keep on the lookout)......HALFSTACK MAGAZINE!!!!!

2012-01-10T06:28:00.000-08:00

For all you Chicagoans that feel that there really is no magazine that captures the ENTIRE essence of our city and it's fantastic people, keep a lookout for Half Stack Magazine! This magazine is officially launching on March 5, and it is an independent cultural magazine that focuses on local Chicago talent (designers, musicians, artists.....). I myself am really excited to see a magazine that is based on OUR city and that includes all those different elements that makes our city so amazing.

This magazine was created by the whizzes Jenny Lezan, Mariana Quaranta and Kate Roth. They wanted a magazine just for Chicago that entails everything. So what to expect in this magazine?? Here is just a quick preview: cultural events (museums exhibits), finance, indie designers, local musicians, sex talk (not just for women but both men and women), techie gadgets, politics, world topics, fashion, celebrity fashion fun and much much more!!!!

So keep an eye out for this mag that has a little bit of everything for any young Chicagoan professional. In the meanwhile here is the website for the magazine that has an official countdown for all their enthusiastic fans (us)!! http://halfstackmag.com/

Ok, So not based in Chicago...but a COOL NEW CONCEPT!!!!

2012-01-05T06:24:00.000-08:00

This new modeling agency is based in LA, but the new concept behind it is so COOL that I wanted to write about it. Former plus-size model Katie Halchishick, having once worked for big time agencies such as Ford Models, opened up her own modeling agency. The agency is called Natural Model Management and they showcase models who range in sizes such as 4-10 (yes I cannot believe that 10 is considered Plus size, really???).

This agency has started a new campaign called, "Healthy is the New Skinny," which hosts a bunch of messages, posts and videos trying to encourage a more natural look into the fashion industry. Make sure to visit the website at http://www.healthyisthenewskinny.com/

With a large chunk of our population considered overweight, it only makes sense that consumers will want to start seeing more natural looking models that they can relate to. Therefore, Natural Model Management is ahead of it's time!! Great job Katie, so when you coming to Chicago?

A Must "BUY" to add to your New Year's List!!!!

2012-01-02T07:53:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Fashion Incubator has limited edition t-shirts for sale!!! 100% of the proceeds go right back to this non-profit organization that focuses on promoting and educating the Chicago Fashion Industry!! Plus CFI also helps upcoming designers gain entrance into the world of fashion!!! These t-shirts come in 2 colors, creme and black and they are made 100% in Chicago!!! These organic cotton/soy t-shirts are $35 a pop, making them very fashionable and affordable!!! They can be purchased at this link http://www.etsy.com/listing/88198176/

Hurry now, there are only limited quantities!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Once they are gone, they are GONE!!!!!