Posts Tagged ‘ articles ’

PHXFW Rewinds: Mother-Daughter Love: Style’ Noel

It must be in the genes.

Synthesizing their creative knowledge and artistic abilities, mother-daughter designers, Patricia and Lisa Glotfelter of Phoenix make a unique team of their own with creative fashion line, Style’ Noel.

Inspiration for Style’ Noel originated with the birth of designer, Lisa Glotfelter’s first son, Style’ Noel; “Style’” standing for style, and “Noel” meaning first.

Designer mom, Patricia, finds her inspirational sources within the female role models in her life, including her grandmother, mother and design partner-daughter, Lisa.

The designing duo has experience within the industry to back up their line, too.

Both Patricia and Lisa embody creative energy within their professional interests as fashion designers, and have non-professional interests in beauty, art, reading and, of course, fashion. Their previous experience in fashion is made up of a long list of known fashion coordinators of photography, illustrations, artists, videographers, and retail buyers and sellers.

Style’ Noel stands to embrace the female experience, aiming to inspire women to be confidently comfortable within their own skin, and allowing them to feel beautiful inside and out.

“Style’ Noel is currently a female line for junior, misses, and plus size figures,” Patricia said. “Stylish, exotic, loud, sexy, and very fun is only a small portion of describing Style’ Noel garments! A female, feminine feel-good clothing line.”

Article written by Christina Silvestri for Phoenix Fashion Week.

2011
07/09
CATEGORY
Articles
Designers
3 comments

PHXFW Rewinds: Roberto Mantellassi: Fresh, Unique Quality without the Price Tag

New designers are regularly introduced to the fashion world, but the few unique designers strong enough to stay in the limelight are the ones that stand out from the rest.

Roberto Mantellassi designs is a collection that some would describe as “a breath of fresh air.”

Roberto Mantellassi is a young designer, living in a small town outside of Florence, Cerreto Guidi. Mantellassi started in the leather business when he was 14, and since has developed his own line of unique bracelets, handbags and belts.

Mantellassi exudes creativity in his handmade designs and exclusive style by combining fine leather with Swarovski crystals and metals. His designs fit with the likes of Gucci, Prada and Michael Kors, but are about half the price and yet, equal in quality.

“There is definitely a place in the market for something fresh and unusual,” Linda Fontana, the Vice President of the Roberto Mantellassi collection in North America said.

Mantellassi is a conservative designer whose designs transform the uptown feel and sophistication into a hip, elegant and stylish collection for any age.

“Someone who is a Cartier person, or someone who buys fine jewelry, you often don’t find them putting on a leather bracelet or skin bracelet,” Fontana said. “But they love to combine these pieces with these precious jewels because the combination of the two is so fresh and fun.”

Roberto Mantellassi is featured at the Bellagio and the new Aria Resort in Las Vegas.

Article written by Jacqueline Valle for Phoenix Fashion Week.

2011
07/02
CATEGORY
Articles
Designers
1 comment

PHXFW Rewinds: Donni Charm Scarves is a “Happy Accident”

When dealing with the loss of someone close, it can be hard to find ways to cope.

Designer Alyssa Wasko, however, found her strength through her company, Donni Charm.

Donni Charm began from what seemed to be a simple project with Wasko and her mother, but turned into an instant national success.

“Me and my mom were just messing around with scarves and charms,” Wasko said. “We like to call it our happy accident.”

Wasko and her mother started by making scarves for friends. Soon though, they were receiving heaps of requests.

They created the Donni Charm in March 2009. Now her scarves are sold in boutiques around the country.

The company was named after her late father Donald “Donny” Wasko who past away in August of last year. Her mom had reminded her that she was always his charm, thus the name Donni Charm was chosen.

These “classy, comfortable and trendy” scarves are made with 100% cotton jersey, and embellished with bronze, gold and silver charms.

Her scarves remind us to keep a close connection with people you love. Each charm represents signs of protection, good luck, and positive feeling.

A-list celebs, such as Jessica Biel, Courtney Cox, Taylor Swift and Lauren Conrad, adore Donni Charm scarves. Donni Charm admirers reach international customers in Canada, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands.

Article written by Chi-Lan Vuong for Phoenix Fashion Week

2011
06/04
CATEGORY
Articles
Designers
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Fascinating People…An Interview with Frances Harder

Meet Frances Harder, internationally known speaker, author, and the President and Founder of Fashion Business Incorporated (FBI), a non-profit organization which provides business development and job retraining to the fashion industry.  Frances also has her own consulting firm, Apparel Business Consulting, and has published a series of books dealing with starting a fashion business, including the very popular “Fashion For Profit”.

I was able to catch up with Frances via telephone. Here’s what we talked about.

Q. Can you tell us a little bit about how you began your career and the path you took to finally develop FBI?

A. I’m originally from England. My mother was a designer, my uncle had a factory in Nottingham, my aunt had a couture store and my grandmother was a lace maker in Nottingham.  My father was a chemist who worked with dyes and textiles, so my destiny seemed pretty obvious. I went to Art College for four years, and graduated in fashion. In my last year at college I interned and this lead to my first design job.  Within that first year I was invited back to teach at the art college, and learned the parallel between being an educator and a designer.

Q. I believe FBI began in 1999. As a non-profit how has it been able to continue to grow?

A. While we receive some grants, and donations, we depend on membership fees, and seminar fees. We have also had some very generous supporters including the owners  of the buildings we have been fortunate to have been housed in.

Q. Your group used to be called Fashion Business Incubator. Can you explain what that means? What prompted it to change?

A.  An incubator grows and nurtures new businesses. The name changed as it became clear that there was a need for more than just entrepreneurial training. We have expanded to include certified incumbent workers training and an additional certified job training program for displaced workers.  It has gradually grown to became more of an incorporation of the whole industry.

Q. Of all the classes that FBI offers, which are the most in demand?

A. That would be the basics about “How to Start Your Fashion Business”,  Photoshop and Illustrator, specific to the fashion industry. Also, workshops on getting ready for, and navigating markets  are popular.

Q. You travel internationally and get a chance to view the various marketplaces. Do you find similar philosophies about fashion throughout the fashion community?

A. I think everyone has their own view of what is fashionable. Trends change from place to place abroad just as they do in the USA. Look at the differences, for instance, in the trends in New York vs. Los Angeles.

Q. You’ve just returned from Australia. During your presentations there, what questions were you asked most? Are the same questions generally asked most in the majority of your Q & A’s?

A. Mostly they want to know what it takes to get into the American marketplace. Which trade shows are most important, where they should look first for sales and distribution?

Q. You’ve been a wonderful supporter of Phoenix Fashion Week, and your workshops and seminars are among our most popular. Why did you make the decision to give your time to helping facilitate the growth of this small but growing market?

A. When I met Brian Hill, Executive Director of Phoenix Fashion Week, I was impressed by his vision and passion for growing the industry.

Thank you, Frances.

For more information on Frances Harder, FBI, or her books, visit www.fashionbizinc.org & www.fashionforprofit.com.  The Fashion Business Inc. office is located in the California Market Center, 110 E 9th St., Suite A-786, Los Angeles, CA 90079. 213-892-1669. Check the Phoenix Fashion Week website for information on upcoming events and workshops presented by Frances Harder. www.phoenixfashionweek.com.

Article by Liz Riley for Phoenix Fashion Week.

The resource for “All Things Fashionable”

www.phoenixfashionweek.com

2011
01/30
CATEGORY
Articles
Education
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Holiday Outfits on a Budget

Every girl has a simple little black dress or LBD in her closet. For the holidays, it can be your go to piece when you are in a crunch for time and money. Make your outfit special by spicing it up with unique, chunky accessories and black heels. For a budget friendly look, shop fashionable sites such as Forever 21 or Topshop. This $80 Topshop dress has a very wearable shape and can be paired with cheap-chic jewelry from Forever 21 and H&M. For more coverage, pair it with some black tights and a fitted blazer. Tip: To make this piece a wardrobe staple, make sure it fits and flatters your body type.

This affordable Flower and Sunburst Collar Necklace from Forever 21 would pair perfectly with your budget friendly LBD look.

Another trend that never fails to impress during the holidays is shine and sequins. Adding sequins to any outfit provides instant glam and fun, which is perfect when running to holiday parties, especially New Years. This $41 TFNC sequin dress with keyhole back from asos.com is the perfect addition to any girl’s closet and is another great budget friendly, go to outfit for the holidays. Consider pairing your sequin dress with some black opaque tights, black stilettos and simple diamond stud earrings to make a statement at any holiday party! Tip: Sequin pieces speak for themselves and therefore, require very few accessories to complete the look. This is a fabulous plus for “recessionistas” looking to save where you can!

Lace is totally on trend this season and what better time to try it than during the holidays! This lace pencil skirt from WetSeal is only $22 and perfect for your favorite holiday soiree. Wear this with your favorite neutral silk top and a great pair of heels for a pop of color. Tip: For an easy office to party transition, pair with a basic blazer and kitten heels.

Pair your lace skirt with these fabulous cobalt blue peep toe platforms from Charlotte Russe for only $33 to glam up your holiday look!

Thanks for reading our article on affordable holiday outfits!

To take advantage of our suggestions…Phoenix New Times 2009 Best of Phoenix Winner! Pink House Boutique is offering $10 OFF their beautiful NYE Cocktail Dresses.  Simply print this article and bring it in to Pink House Boutique and save $10 today.

Pink House Boutique is located | 7009 N 58th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85301

| (623) 298-4766 | http://www.pinkhousetreasures.com.

Article by Lauren Pfingstag for Phoenix Fashion Week

The Resource for “All Things Fashionable”

www.phoenixfashionweek.com

 

 

 

2010
12/29
CATEGORY
Articles
Style
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Emerging Model Signs with Top Agency

Working as a model in the fashion industry is not only incredibly challenging, but competitive. It requires passion, talent and hard work. Nick Koester possesses all of these qualities, but his journey has not been easy. Koester became interested in modeling after his freshman year in college and was working as a bouncer at a local club earlier this year when a photographer recognized that he had natural talent and suggested he pursue modeling. Koester was discovered at a model search for Phoenix Fashion Week in July.  Soon after, he began putting in time and energy modeling for small events and making connections. While attending events he learned how to present himself, explaining “you never know who will be there…smile at everybody.” Koester continued to work hard and caught the eye of Agency Arizona, a well established modeling agency, walking for them in Phoenix Fashion Week this year.

Koester was determined to be signed by a modeling agency and pursue his dream. He walked the catwalk in October during the nationally recognized Hispanic Women’s Conference, but most important, Nick shot the cover for Discover the Region Magazine, which prompted the FORD Robert Black agency to take a second look. They had previously turned him down.  As he expected, on November 15th, 2010, only one month after modeling at Phoenix Fashion Week, his dream became a reality.  Koester is now signed with FORD and loves the atmosphere, calling it a “big family.”

Although Koester has not had a chance to work with them yet, he is looking forward to modeling with his friends and grateful for the amazing opportunity to work with a top agency. “I want to do the best I can, work with all the great designers…Ralph Lauren, Dolce and Gabbana, and Calvin Klein…while traveling the world showcasing the greatest fashions in Milan, Japan, New York and more,” Koester said. He is also looking forward to the upcoming paychecks. However, he is sensible when detailing his purchases, “a new pair of shoes for networking and fittings,” but adds that in the future he would love to buy an SS Camaro “after everything is taken care of.”

Since Koester was an emerging model that worked his way up in the industry, he can relate to models hoping to make it big and get signed. He offered some advice, “all I can say is never give up on what you want and keep fighting for your dream. Just keep your head held high and go for it!” Koester said.

Be on the lookout for Nick Koester on runways and in fashion magazines near you.

If you know of a potential fashion model, send pictures to celestial@phoenixfashionweek.com

Article by Lauren Pfingstag for Phoenix Fashion Week.

The resource for “All Things Fashionable”

www.phoenixfashionweek.com

2010
12/09
CATEGORY
Articles
Models
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Phoenix Fashion Week Welcomes the THREAD Show

This Sunday, December 12, 2010, THREAD is coming to Phoenix for the first time to showcase  the best of independent and local designers. It’s an event where you can have more fun than shopping at the mall, but it still, definitely, includes shopping. Emerging designers will be selling clothes for women, men, and children for the holidays. So if you haven’t done your holiday shopping yet, this is not an event to miss! There will also be art, live music, drinks and snacks to make your shopping experience extraordinary. Phoenix Fashion Week had the wonderful opportunity to do a little Q & A interview with Danielle Gano, the PR spokesperson behind THREAD. She gave us her insight about these lovely shows and what Phoenix can expect to see this Sunday!

Tell us about how THREAD was created!

DG: THREAD was created by Lara Matthews 8 years ago, who moved to San Diego from Bristol, UK with a background in Event Planning. It actually all started in her backyard with a shopping party where tons of people showed up.

What is Lara’s story behind starting THREAD?

DG: When she moved out here, she met a lot of different creative designers and artists, but they lacked a business outlet. So she was inspired to start THREAD, giving them an opportunity to show their designs and talents.

How has it evolved since it began?

DG: We have had shows all around, and the amount of people who attended our events has been incredible, about 3,000 to 4,000.

What inspires the concepts and aspects for THREAD?

DG: So many phenomenal talents get involved. There are beautiful clothes, including clothes that are one of a kind too. They make things you’d never think of. There’s even a designer that makes wallets out of library books! The passion of the designers working with us inspires us.

There seems to be not just an emphasis on fashion, but also art and music. Why not specialize in just one category?

DG: We want to differentiate ourselves. The shopping is for fashion, but we also have art and music to make it a fun event. We want to present it in a way that anyone can feel welcome. There are some people who are attracted to the fashion aspect, but there are also those who aren’t, but will come for the art and music, and they’ll have a good time.

We noticed THREAD is very passionate about eco-friendliness too. Please elaborate!

DG: It’s very important and personal to us. Our office is actually eco-friendly. We like to encourage using eco-friendly resources and give extra exposure to designers who incorporate them into their work. Fashion is a good example of a product that uses natural resources, and it’s something that we need to promote to enhance sustainability awareness.

What does it take for a designer to be involved with THREAD? Do you look for a particular style?

DG: We always look for a variety! We welcome all sorts of designers but we look for a certain level of quality and what is currently in trend too. We’re open to collaborating.

Since THREAD is mainly based in California, why did you guys expand into Phoenix? Why Phoenix Fashion Week?

DG: There have been a few markets in Phoenix that we were interested in. We chose Phoenix first because of proximity. We wanted to work with Phoenix Fashion Week because of the designers involved, the branding, and the positive vibes. The core of the branding and sponsors is important to us.

What can the Phoenix crowd look forward to in the upcoming show this Sunday?

DG: The opportunity to shop their local designers for the holidays! Rather than heading to the mall, where it’s stuffy and boring, it’s a lot more fun to shop at our show. You get to meet with the designer one-on-one, have cocktails, do some wine tasting, look at the art exhibits and enjoy the DJ, while you shop.

Thank you so for doing an interview with Phoenix Fashion Week, Danielle! For more information on the event, please visit their website at http://threadshow.com.

SPECIAL: If you RSVP for the event on the site, and mention Phoenix Fashion Week, you can save $5 on admission to The THREAD Show (half the full admission price)!

FREE: Don’t forget to leave a comment about this article here. You might win a free admission ticket!

LOCATION:

IceHouse 429 West Jackson Street

Phoenix, AZ 85003-2409

(602) 257-8929

Article by Thuy An Bui for Phoenix Fashion Week.

THE resource for “All Things Fashionable”

www.phoenixfashionweek.com

2010
12/06
CATEGORY
Articles
Events
7 comments

Cashak Style: Your guide to the sexiest styles, the hottest trends and the most beautiful people on earth.

In the fashion world, the name “Cashak” rings a chorus of loving bells to our fabulously decorated ears.

Whether we’re thinking Cashak Style of 2010, Cashak TV of 2007 or, for those veterans among us, Cashak Magazine of 2005, Chris Cashak has successfully trumped fashion video online—and it’s impossible not to admire him for it.

Chris Cashak set himself up behind a camera in his elementary years and quickly became his school’s go-to guy for audio and visual filming. It’s no surprise Cashak was responsible for airing the principal during announcements and producing a weekly campus news program on the school’s TV system.

“I remember going to great lengths to convince the principal to let me use the ‘prettiest’ girls at the school as hosts and reporters,” Cashak said.

For a couple years, Cashak made use of his talents by photographing landscapes for magazines such as Arizona Highways. But for an outgoing, high-energy man like Cashak, still landscapes weren’t enough to keep him engaged.

“Photographing mountains and vistas were not enough for me, though,” Cashak said. Adding later, “For me the fashion industry, with its excitement, fame and fortune, was irresistible.”

In 2005, Cashak Magazine launched, focusing primarily on nightlife and fashion. When Cashak realized new Internet technology was successfully moving video to the web, he whipped out his broadcast skills and re-launched as Cashak TV in 2007. As Cashak TV’s audience grew, so did the program’s projects.

“People started to think Cashak TV was about all kinds of topics, including nightlife, modeling, et cetera,” Cashak said. “So I changed the name in 2010 to reflect its current pure fashion focus.”

Chris Cashak and Cashak Style are at the top of their market. Cashak Style is viewed around the world, and is supported by premium brands like BCBGMAXAZRIA, Michael Kors, Gucci and Burberry.

At PHXFW, Cashak Style is responsible for converting our designers, buyers, models and directors into hundreds of minutes of glamorous video studded on the web—dare I fail to mention that Cashak Style is also responsible for that eye sparkling, big-clown smile us fashionistas wear while we’re watching his footage!

Look for Chris Cashak and Cashak Style at Phoenix Fashion Week this October, he’ll be the one walking around with a trail of beautiful women at his feet.

Article written by Emily Timm for Phoenix Fashion Week.

2010
08/16
CATEGORY
Articles
Sponsors
1 comment

Beauty Is in the Eye of the Artist

At some point in time, those who are passionate about fashion often realize it is something they would like to pursue as an art form. The beauty of fashion truly lies in the eye of the creator, and the rest is left to the admiration of the audience.

Some people follow their dreams by going to fashion school, while others, like Shantidas, find their true passion in a sewing class at age fifteen. Her life-changing, teen discovery lead Shantidas to study abroad in Milan, where the true art of style and fashion lies.

“It was the most difficult thing I’ve ever done, but it’s also the best thing I’ve ever done.” Shantidas Contu-owen, Designer of Shantidas said. “The style and the atmosphere in Milan are extremely different from here (US).”

Shantidas describes her style as “high-fashion, prêt-a-porter,” and for women aged 18-30.

While the use of different types of draping and fabric give the line a romantic, sophisticated look, the line itself is also a bit edgy. Shantidas’ true infatuation is custom design with a little bit of couture.

“My ultimate goal would be to have dresses and designs on red carpet affairs, celebrities who are doing events in the public eye.” Shantidas said. “I really love working on specific details tailored to a woman’s body.”

While Shantidas is truly inspired by just about anything, from the likes of nature to designers like Donna Karen and the early Gianni Versace, her designs reflect a beauty of individuality and sophistication.

In the end, she wants people to feel as if their dressed in their own skin as opposed to just wearing a dress that is draped over their skin.

You will be able to meet Shantidas Contu-owen and experience the Shantidas collection on the runway during Phoenix Fashion Week, October 7 – 9, 2010.

Article written by Jacqueline Valle for Phoenix Fashion Week.

2010
08/13
CATEGORY
Articles
Designers
2 comments

SJ Couture for the Bride to Be

“Here comes the bride, all dressed in white,” is a tune every little girl can giddily recite from the first moment she discovers the magic in weddings and marriage. While every little girl grows up envisioning their perfect wedding, every woman knows the real magic is in the perfect wedding dress.

Women today can choose from high-end designers to local bridal boutiques. But here in Phoenix, there’s one line of bridal couture that separates itself from all others, drawing its inspiration from the elements in an English garden.

“The dream of creating a wedding gown that was unique and different,” Sim and Jeanne Hankerson, Designers of SJ Couture, said about what inspired them to create a bridal line.

The line can be described as exquisite, luxurious and whimsical, offering any type of bride, traditional and non-traditional, their dream wedding gown on the  special day.

Though SJ Couture is still young to the fashion world, its daring and creative designers know exactly the type of women who are made for SJ Couture.

“An independent, confident woman who embraces her femininity” is the ultimate SJ Couture bride, according to the Hankersons.

While the Hankersons speculate on expanding into fine bridal footwear, they plan on increasing development to a more global scale. Fashion meccas, like New York and Paris, will soon be seeing SJ Couture in their storefronts. For now, though, the excitement of debuting at this year’s Phoenix Fashion Week will prove possibilities of future fashion weeks to come.

You will be able to meet Sim and Jeanne Hankerson and experience their collection on the emerging designer runway during Phoenix Fashion Week, October 7 – 9, 2010.

Article written by Jacqueline Valle for Phoenix Fashion Week.

2010
08/11
CATEGORY
Articles
Designers
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Phoenix Fashion Week was established in 2005 by a team of Arizona based industry professionals.

We are based in the fastest growing metropolitan area in the United States, Phoenix.

Our mission is simple but powerful: To market established and emerging fashion designers from around the globe to top retailers, buyers, media and fashionistas.

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