l'etoile's Guide to Fall MNfashion Week 2010

Edited by Jahna Peloquin
Text by Lauren Gantner & Jahna Peloquin

It's fall MNfashion Week, and you know what that means - shopping, deals, fashion shows, and a celebration of all that is Twin Cities fashion! Take it from us - it's one of our favorite times of the year. (Note the § symbol for l'etoile's recommended picks!) For more sales and shopping, check out our weekly shopping guide.

BONUS: Check out l'etoile's 2010 Fall MNFashion Week preview shoot with photographer Chris McDuffie HERE.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20:

Vintage City Classics Jewelry Workshop
What: Start your MNfashion Week off right with the DIY expertise of local jewelry line Vintage City Classics. Join these one-of-a-kind jewelry makers to create your own pair of totally unique earrings. They'll supply the pretty beads (as well as other glamorous jewelry and gems for purchase!) - all you need to bring is your creative side. -Lauren Gantner
Cost: $15 registration fee, includes all materials used in creating your own unique pair of earrings. RSVP to vintagecityclassics@gmail.com to reserve your spot.
When: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Monday, September 20.
Where: Vintage City Classics Studio, 314 Clifton Avenue S, Minneapolis, vintagecityclassics.com, mnfashionweek.com

The Big Chill Fashion Show and Benefit
What: Fall is here! Why not kick of the cooler weather (and your MN Fashion Week) with a Big Chill Fashion event? Knit pro Laine Sou Weinberg of KOKOON has collaborated with the mastermind behind Uptown’s Local Motion, Barb Heinrich as well as Rox Jewelry’s own gem guru, Robyne Robinson, to bring you a night of fashion to raise money for cancer research. Shop local trends (with 20 percent of proceeds going toward the Randy Shaver Cancer Research and Community Fund) while enjoying your fill of wine, apps, raffles and more. -Lauren Gantner
Cost: General admission is free; VIP tickets are $20 (includes $10 off purchases made during the event and two free raffle tickets)
When: 7 p.m. Monday, September 20.
Where: KOKOON Design Studio, 2508 24th Ave. S., Minneapolis, kokoon.net, mnfashionweek.com

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21:

Shop Talk: What the Mpls Fashion Industry Needs Now
What: Now you can really get in the minds of the people behind MNfashion! This year, MNfashion is bringing you their take on the fashion industry in an informal monthly lecture series called “Shop Talk.” This time around, chat with MNfashion director Anna Lee herself, with intelligent insight from Clothier Design Source leading lady Mindy Martell, about "What the Minneapolis Fashion Industry Needs Now." It's a priceless opportunity voice your opinions about the local fashion industry and MNfashion Week if you are so inclined. -Lauren Gantner
Cost: $5 suggested donation.
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 21.
Where: MNfashion Studio, Grainbelt Bottling House, 79 13th Ave. NE., Suite 212, Minneapolis, 612-228-1150, mnfashion.org, mnfashionweek.com

Haircut Happy Hour at Miyagi
What: If you haven't checked out Miyagi Salon in Northeast Minneapolis, now's your chance to take in the gorgeous lofted ceilings, artsy walls, and styling talents of co-owner and lead stylist Mo Murphy's team. For one day only, all haircuts will be $20 with full proceeds going towards MNfashion. -Jahna Peloquin
Cost: $20 (cash or check only); apointments are strongly recommended.
When: Noon-8 p.m. Tuesday, September 21.
Where: Miyagi Salon, 411 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 612-331-1912, dojoforbeauty.com, mnfashionweek.com

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22:

Nigel Barker Book Signing at MOA
What: Esteemed fashion photographer, studly America’s Next Top Model judge and beauty business buff Nigel Barker knows real beauty inside and out. And now, he's written a book about it called Beauty Equation: Revealing a Better and More Beautiful You. This Wednesday's book signing at the MOA is your chance meet the man behind the book and get the inside scoop on your more nagging beauty questions - just in time for MNfashion Week! -Lauren Gantner
When: 6–8 p.m. Wednesday, September 22.
Where: Mall of America, Best Buy Rotunda, 60 East Broadway, Bloomington, mallofamerica.com, mnfashionweek.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23:

§ Joynoelle Spring 2011 Collection Fashion Show
What: Joy Teiken is one of the more established designers to call Minneapolis home, and coupled with her striking designs, gorgeous fabrics, and passion for the local fashion industry, we're definitely lucky to have her. Her craftsmanship is unparalleled, and her vintage-inspired design aesthetic continues to expand into edgier territory with each collection - so much so that she's recently been featured in daily fashion bible WWD. With Vision models, expert production from IamMoody, hair and makeup from Extrados, music from DJ Shiek, gift bags, tasty "Joytinis," and food from CRAVE, this will be one of the more popular shows of MNfashion Week. -Jahna Peloquin
Cost: $50 for first show, $75 for second show and entry to after party.
When: First show from 6-7 p.m.; second show from 8-10 p.m. (Attendees of the second show get a bonus opportunity to participate in a meet and greet with Joy Teiken.)
Where: International Market Square, 9th floor penthouse, 290 Market St., Minneapolis, iammoody.com, joynoelle.com, mnfashionweek.com

§ Cliché's "Crosswalk" Fashion Show
What: Forgoing its usual blowout runway show, local boutique Cliché instead is bringing its customer into the store - and out of it. Entitled "Crosswalk," the event cleverly puts the "street" in "streetwear" as models styled in fall looks from the store's national lines as well as new lines from local designers Tender Cuts, Kathryn V. and Niki English parade outside of the store and onto the crosswalk of 24th Street and Lyndale Avenue. Though the show is apparently a cost-saving way to still showcase its local designers and latest offerings, Cliché is sure to make use of creative presentation and a novel concept to make for a truly memorable event. BONUS: During event all merchandise is 10 percent off. -Jahna Peloquin (Pictured: Last spring's "Crosswalk"; Photo by Cody Lidtke)
Cost: Free
When: 7-10 p.m. Thursday, September 23.
Where: Cliché, 2403 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-870-0420, clichempls.com, mnfashionweek.com

Raul Osorio + Vintage City Classics Trunk Show
What: In the spirit of MNfashion Week, Via's Vintage shop is open after hours for an exclusive trunk show and fashion preview. Come peruse Raul Osorio's new women's fall line before it debuts on the "Pale Rider" runway on Friday night, and peep the new Vintage City Classics hair accessories collection. Of course, you'll mingle with the designers and store owners themselves and have the chance to pre-order all the pieces you want. BONUS: Since the event is hosted at local classic collectors Via's Vintage, all Via swag will be an extra 10 percent off! -Lauren Gantner (Photo: Raul Osorio by Ingrid Werthmann)
When: 7:30-9 p.m. Thursday, September 23.
Where: Via's Vintage, 2408 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-374-3649, viasvintage.com, mnfashionweek.com

Jagress Intimates Launch + Dirty Dolls Lingerie Show
What: Local designer Sarah White is exploring uncharted territory in Minneapolis - couture intimate apparel. The unique designs for her line Jagress Intimates include both special-occasion and everyday lines. National line Jagress Intimates will present its Spring 2011 Resort Line, offer a peek at a few of the intricate hand-sewn pieces commissioned by the designer, and a trunk show of undergarments inspired by 1920s burlesque stars. BONUS: Gift bags for the first 20 customers and complimentary champagne for all! -Jahna Peloquin (Pictured: Dirty Dolls Lingerie)
When: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday, September 23. Trunk show continues Friday, September 24 and Saturday, September 25 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: La Bratique, 5007 France Ave. S., 2nd floor, Edina, 612-926-8308, labratique.com, mnfashionweek.com

Urban Rainment Fall Trunk Show
What: Local line Urban Rainment is taking part in the MNfashion Week festivities with a doubley-fun event: a little bit of trunk show mixed with a little bit of wine tasting. Make your way over to the Cabana Room to mingle with models, peruse the street-smart line's recycled, vintage clothing and jewelry with a multi-cultural flavor, and sip wine through the night. -Lauren Gantner
When: 6-9 p.m. Thursday, September 23.
Where: The Cabana Room at The Cliffs, 12000 Marion Ln. W., Minnetonka, mnfashionweek.com

of Venus and Gaia Collection Launch
What: Local designers Jessica Penny and Christina Bussler are joining together this Thursday to launch their new clothing line “of Venus and Gaia," inspired by bright leotards and leg warmers straight from the eighties. The hand-crocheted looks will be paired with handmade leather handbags by Door County-based line Turtle Ridge. Live music from Lazlo Supreme and Lucy Michelle and the Velvet Lapelles rounds out the night. -Lauren Gantner
Cost: $16 advance, $22 at door.
When: 6 p.m. Thursday, September 23.
Where: The Lab Theater, 700 N First Street, Minneapolis, 612-333-7977, thelabtheater.org, mnfashionweek.com

Fall into Style with Local Color
What: For MNfashion Week, join local artist co-op ELINOR to peruse its extensive fall collection from over 40 Midwestern artisans and crafters. Get ready for the season by shopping their latest goods - jackets, scarves, clothing, art and jewels from designers like Knit-n-Jules, Susan Horowitz and more. The night also includes prizes, discounts and tasty treats. -Lauren Gantner
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, September 23.
Where: ELINOR Artful Adornments, 1559 Randolph Avenue, St. Paul, 651-771-1791, elinor7.wordpress.com, mnfashionweek.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 24:

§ "Pale Rider"
What: Local designers Raul Osorio and Danielle Everine share a good deal aesethetically, but definitely have distinct styles on their own. Osorio is known for incorporating feminine, Grecian draping into tough, militaristic menswear; now we'll see his womenswear for the first time. Danielle Everine, on the other hand, is known for her menswear-inspired womenswear, while incorporating sculptural, fine art elements and highly conceptual garments that still manage to be wearable. For "Pale Rider," Everine is said to embrace traditional Wild West styling and the Biblical imagery of Revelations. Osorio's collection aims to explore the juxtaposition of hard lines, soft textures, masculine silhouettes and feminine lightness. One thing's for sure: both desires are ones to watch. -Jahna Peloquin (Photo: Danielle Everine F/W 2010 by Ingrid Werthmann)
Cost: $15 general admission, $30 VIP.
When: 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, Friday, September 24.
Where: MNfashion Atrium at Grainbelt Bottling Building, 79 13th Ave. NE., Minneapolis, mnfashionweek.com

§ "SGMS: Full Fashion Panic"
What: This year's edition of "Schoolgirls and Mobilesuits" - the annual fashion portion of the weekend-long anime workshop Culture and Creation in Manga and Anime workshop/retreat at MCAD - doubles as a celebration of its 10 year anniversary. Produced by local neo-Victorian/steampunk afficionado Samantha Rei of Blasphemina's Closet, the show always features the latest in steampunk/Lolita/anime-inspired fashion from the Twin Cities and beyond, by students as well as established designers like Rei. -Jahna Peloquin (Photo: Blasphemina's Closet)
Cost: $10
When: 6:30 p.m. doors, 7:30 p.m. show, Friday, September 24.
Where: Minneapolis College of Art and Design, 2501 Stevens Ave., Minneapolis, 612-874-3700, schoolgirlsandmobilesuits.com, mnfashionweek.com

"Fashion Dance for Life"
What: What's better than a runway fashion show? A fashion dance party of course! Six local designers have teamed up with Minneapolis' finest dancers, models and music makers to raise money to help fight HIV and AIDS. Make your way over to the Lab Theater to take a peek at designs from established local favorite Amanda Christine, ArielSimone (freshly home from showing at New York Fashion Week), recent U of M design grad Mae Rodgers, Sina Yi, Steven Be, and Tony Eliason to celebrate local fashion, dance, and life. -Lauren Gantner (A look by Mae Rodgers; Photo by Stacy Schwartz)
Cost: $15 advance, $20 door, $30 VIP.
When: 8 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday, September 24.
Where: The Lab Theater, 700 N. 1st St., Minneapolis, 612-333-7977, thelabtheater.org, mnfashionweek.com

An UNExpEKted Night of Fashion
What: Online collective Uneek Collection is bringing together clothing, talent and imagination this weekend for a New York-inspired runway showcase with three of its designers: JE Designs by Joy Elliot, Dejamone by Will Chandler and Trinity by Trinity Design.
When: 9-11 p.m. Friday, September 24.
Where: 414 Sound Bar, 414 3rd Ave. N., Minneapolis, 612-333-0363, 414soundbar.com, mnfashionweek.com

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25:

Split Personality Launch Party at The Hub Bike Co-Op
What: New line Split Personality picked the perfect time to launch its collection of jewelry, cleverly crafted from recycled and new bike parts. Friends and cyclists Rachelle Thorpe and Hollie Olson created the line inspired by their love for fashion and biking. Head to the Hub Bike Co-op this Saturday to view their debut collection, buy up your favorite pieces (cash only), and snack on tasty treats and complimentary Surly beer. -Jahna Peloquin
When: 7-10 p.m. Saturday, September 25.
Where: The Hub Bike Co-Op, 301 Cedar Ave., Minneapolis, mnfashionweek.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26:

Runway on the Rooftop
What: End your MNfashion Week right with a rooftop runway event! Join lovely Ignite models and trendy Uptown boutique VState to nom on tasty hors d’oeurves and sip on a complimentary drinks from the new Uptown Cafeteria sky bar while taking a peek at a ton of new fall collections from VState. -Lauren Gantner
Cost: $10 advance, $15 at the door.
When: 6–9 p.m. Sunday, September 26.
Where: The Cafeteria, 3001 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 612-877-7263, mnfashionweek.com

Catwalk on a Hot Tin Roof
What: If one rooftop fashion show on Sunday afternoon isn't enough for you, try this one from IamMoody productions. This event merges jazz-soul group Wenso Ashby and a delicious brunch. The afternoon wraps up with a fashion show featuring the latest fall look from two of the Twin Cities' most well-edited designer boutiques, OPM and Bumbershute. -Jahna Peloquin (Pictured: a look from OPM)
Cost: Ticket cost TBA.
When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. show at 2:30 p.m. Sun.
Where: Seven Sushi Ultralounge and Skybar, 700 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, iammoody.com, mnfashionweek.com


The Sweet Life Fashion Show
What: Step into the Sweet Life with a fashion event brought to you especially by the cool peeps behind RIYO and OM Restaurant. This Sunday, walk into the whimsical fashion world of designers such as Ayad Ahmed, The Yan, Kathryn Rogers, Nyce and Homm of Jeantrix and ArielSimone as well as some exclusive extras to keep the night exciting. -Lauren Gantner (Pictured: A look from ArielSimone)
Cost: $15 advance, $20 at the door, $40 VIP, $50 front row.
When: 7:30 p.m.– 11 p.m. Sunday, September 26.
Where: OM Restaurant, 401 1st Ave. N., Minneapolis, 612-338-1580, sweetlifefashionshow.com, mnfashionweek.com

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29:

Saint Paul Capitol Collective
What: Get a taste of St. Paul style with this IamMoody-produced runway show from a collective of the capital city's best and brightest. Womenswear from eclectic shops Karma and Allee Metro Chic will make their way down the runway, as will Parisian-styled lingerie from Flirt and vintage threads from Lula's Vintage Wear. Ladies, bring your guys - top menswear boutique BlackBlue will give your fellas something to crave. Best of all, proceeds go to benefit the CapitolRiver Council and Capital City Partnerships, which work for the physical revitalization and economic growth of the historic St. Paul downtown. The evening is rounded out with gift bags and a catered afterparty. -Jahna Peloquin (Pictured: a look from BlackBlue)
Cost: $40
When: 6:30 p.m. doors, 7:30 p.m. show. Wednesday, September 29.
Where: Landmark Center, 75 5th St. W., St. Paul, mnfashionweek.com, iammoody.com