This past Friday, l'etoile hosted Imagination Mechanism, an MNFashion Week party at the beautiful Eitel Building on Loring Park. The event was an interactive bash co-sponsored with Secrets of the City that included a live fashion photo shoot by Stephen Stephens, with creative direction from l'etoile's Beth Hammarlund and Kate Iverson, styling by Jahna Peloquin, and hair/makeup by Kate Erickson and models Karen O. and Kevin from Vision Management Group. With live post production including digital retouching by Kate Iverson and art direction/layout design by Chris Larson.
Party-goers mingled between the Eitel's rooftop sky park and the building's model unit on the 6th floor where the photo shoot was happening, all the while sipping wine and enjoying appetizers courtesy of Ginger Hop Restaurant. A creative inspiration station was set up in the sky park party room where attendees could create fashion photo shoot mood boards and story boards -- which resulted in a lot of great ideas!
The live photo shoot l'etoile came up with is entitled Behind Closed Doors and tells a short story of a man and woman whose relationship is on the rocks. The Eitel Building's model unit provided the glamorous backdrop while clothing and accessories from Blacklist Vintage, Elsworth, Hymie's Haberdashery, Belle Reve, and Russell Bourienne filled in the stylish blanks. Models Karen O. and Kevin from Vision made the perfect (disgruntled) couple!
Check out the shoot below and stay tuned, we'll be releasing our Spring editorial, Kiss me, Cake later this week!
Special thanks to our sponsors Eitel Building City Apartments, Vision Management Group, Secrets of the City, and Ginger Hop Restaurant. A big thanks also to Clement Shimizu, Cole Griswold, Anna Lee, The Guthrie Theater, MNFashion, all the l'etoile staffers, all our awesome volunteers and the huge (and stylish) crowd who came out to check out the event -- we were blown away!
NEXT UP: Join l'etoile at the Guthrie Theater on Wednesday, May 5th for a performance of M. Butterfly, that includes a fancy post-party on the Guthrie's gorgeous patio complete with complimentary appetizers from Sea Change, drink specials, and tunes from DJ Matt Perkins! Super cheap tickets to the play are only $15 and can be purchased here!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Weekend What's What 4/22-4/27
SWEET N' STYLISH
MNFashion Week is still in full swing and we couldn't be happier! Springtime styles abound and the fun, well, it's a-plenty. While we've got a number of cool fashion-related events featured in this week's edition (see our Guide to MNFashion Week for the full lineup) there are also more art, film and music events than you can possibly shake a stick at. Be sure to join us on Friday for our official MNFashion Week event, Imagination Mechanism at the Eitel Building!
xo-l'étoile
THIS WEEK ON L'ETOILE
Check out our full guide to MNFashion Week HERE
Beth Hammarlund reviews Voltage: Fashion Amplified HERE
Jahna Peloquin updates our Sales and Shopping Guide HERE
FRIDAY ART-A-WHIRL PREVIEW: DANIEL BUETTNER
With Art-A-Whirl quickly approaching, May 14-16, we thought it proper to clue you in on some awesome artists who will be showing their work this year! Check back each week leading up to the Whirl for more artist spotlights, plus our big guide to Art-A-Whirl 2010 the week-of! This week's pick is the talented Daniel Buettner.
What do a robot, a chicken and a handbag all have in common? Why, local artist Daniel Buettner of course! The first in our series of Art-a-Whirl spotlights, Buettner’s paintings are a hodgepodge of ubiquitous objects juxtaposed in one free association stream of consciousness. His works are pop references to everyday life where a hand grenade seems perfectly at home assembled near a sole go-go boot and a whoopie cushion. We can’t wait to see what the artist has in store for Art-a-Whirl, and frankly, we can’t even begin to guess. Catch Buettner at the Northrup King Building during Art-a-Whirl’s whirlwindy weekend, showcasing sooner than you can say “I heart Northeast.”
Click HERE for the Daniel Buettner site and visit www.nemaa.org for more information on Art-A-Whirl 2010!
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD (THROUGH SUNDAY)
St. Paul Art Crawl
Various Locations / Free
6pm-10pm Friday, Noon-8pm Saturday, Noon-5pm Sunday
An overwhelming amount of creativity and ingenuity makes up this annual spring art extravaganza. Some people say St. Paul is sleepy, but the bazillion or so artists who call Capital City home prove otherwise. Traverse old warehouses and lofts, galleries and coffee shops and lay eyes on pretty much every kind of art imaginable. Tour studios, party arty and meet the artists who make the pieces you’re drooling over -- and if you’re smart -- you'll take home as much as you can carry. Highlights? Well, there are definitely too many to list here, but we'd suggest visiting the Northern Warehouse which will feature a film room where you can watch video pieces created by they buildings' artists; a gallery show of artists Daniel Choma and Jamie Paul Lamb; work by prolific painter Kara Hendershot and many more in dozens of artist studios throughout the building, plus 33% off work by awesome photographer Rhea Pappas, whose dreamy underwater pix make us wish we were mermaids. We'd also suggest popping into the Black Dog Cafe where live music by Carnage, Beatrix Jar and more will entertain throughout the weekend. Another great stop would be the Back Alley Gallery where renowned illustrator DWITT will be holding court with his merry art collective, shilling reasonable priced prints and an eclectic range of original artwork. Hit up 262 4th Street East to find the In Progress art show featuring work by a number of local artists revolving around the theme of how our environments affect us and the people around us. Last but not least, l'etoile fave Jesse Draxler and Justin Sehorn present Bloodtime at the Everest Building. Check out the link below and snag the printable map!
Click HERE for more info and a map of all the locations!
MN FASHION WEEK PICK
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD
Imagination Mechanism
@ Eitel Building City Apartments
(Rooftop Sky Park 7th flr)
1367 Willow St
Minneapolis
7pm-10:30pm / Free
Join us for a real-time peek inside the creative process of fashion photography! We’ll return once again to the Eitel Building’s gorgeous Rooftop Sky Park on Loring Park for a stylish, interactive mixer that will invite you to play creative director for a day. Try your hand at designing fashion photo shoot mood boards and story boards with the help of l’étoile and Secrets of the City staff, then watch as l'etoile implements these same processes to create a live fashion photo shoot that will include everything from styling, shooting, retouching, and even editorial layout — all right before your eyes. Complimentary refreshments will be available, including hot n' tasty apps from Ginger Hop restaurant and even hotter people. And dress to impress: we’ll be giving away multiple pairs of tickets to the Guthrie Theater's production of M. Butterfly to the most “fashion photo ready” attendees! Sponsored by l’étoile magazine, Secrets of the City, Vision Models, Eitel Building City Apartments, and Ginger Hop Restaurant.
Click HERE for the Facebook event
For even MORE Fashion Week events this weekend visit our Guide HERE
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD
Specimen
@ Ex-Anthony Shane Florist
1901 Nicollet Ave
Minneapolis
7-10pm / Free
Grown out of the petri dish of local arts, the five artists involved in tonight’s exhibit offer up a mixed medium showcase of science, experimentation and discovery sans the microscope slides. Join artists Abbi Allen, Chad Sokoloski, Raina Belleau, Adriana Rimpel and Andrew Vomhof for an opening bash you don’t have to be a science geek to enjoy. Sip down tasty refreshments and groove to tunes while you peek tonight’s pedagogical pieces. Lab coat not required!
Click HERE for the Facebook event
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD
Home
@ 1419
The Basement
1419 Washington Avenue
(Seven Corners)
Minneapolis
8pm / Free
Head to the the 1419 space on the fringe of the West Bank this evening for some underground art mayhem! Home features work from Twin Cities artists loosely influenced by the idea of the word "home." Featuring the work of Celestine Pueringer, Inna Royzenfeld, Will Hayes, Miles Mendenhall, Robbie Yates, Will Grant, Aaron Anderson, Eric Carlson, Mike Burrill, Sophie Weil, Alex Oskie, Tim Hudson and Jake Stein.
Click HERE for the Facebook event
MNFASHION WEEK PICK:
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD (THROUGH SATURDAY)
"Catwalk Cabaret Fashion Ball"
What: This fashion ball and Ballet of the Dolls benefit is an evening full of high-end fashion, produced and styled by Grant Whittaker and Myron Johnson (the creative team behind not only Ballet of the Dolls but also Glamorama). Guests will experience a full, avant-garde cabaret with four luxury runway shows and a pop-up boutique, with fashions supplied by Grethen House, John Novachis, Specs Optical and Ann Lambrecht Jewelry. Tickets are $30 and available at The Ritz box office or online at www.ritzdolls.com (and include a complimentary Prairie Vodka cocktail).
When: 7:30-11 p.m. (8 p.m. show.) Friday, April 23 & Saturday, April 24. Where: Ritz Theater, 345 13th Ave. NE., Minneapolis. 612-436-1129. www.ritzdolls.com
For even MORE Fashion Week events this weekend visit our Guide HERE
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD
Rebel Rebel: Rock for Pussy VII
@ First Ave
701 1st Ave North
Minneapolis
8pm / 18+ / $10
This Friday night, glitz, glitter and glam reign supreme at Rock For Pussy – the 7th annual tribute to David Bowie. Curated by 89.3 The Current fave Mary Lucia, The evening’s house band includes musicians from sexy musical savants Jim Walsh, Christian Erickson, The Honeydogs, and E.L.nO., while lead vocals will be handled by singer-songwriter Jeremy Messersmith, Lori Barbero, Janey Winterbauer, ex-Jayhawk Marc Perlman, Ciaran Daly of Idle Hands, and many more in a musical homage to the Thin White Duke himself. Dress up in your Bowie best and shakedown to the hottest glam jams. All proceeds benefit the Minnesota Valley Humane Society Cat Shelter. Seriously people, who doesn’t want to help a bunch of destitute little pussies? Meow!
Click HERE for the Facebook event
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD
Pegasus presents TIRED: A Celebration of Gay Cliche
@ Bedlam Theater
1501 S. 6th. St.
Minneapolis
10pm / 21+
Oh, this will be fun. Gay clichés and stereotypes will be in full effect tonight. Drive your Lesburu or bike on your fixie to hear tunes a la Judy Garland, Cher, and a plethora of '90s divas. Fake tan stripping is promised, and we can only wish for one Indigo Girls song. Possibly the best idea ever.
Click HERE for the Bedlam site
COOL LINK: MN ORIGINAL
We really live in the best state! Not one to let an artist go uncelebrated, this new weekly half hour show on Twin Cities Public Television highlights all the hidden and sparkling gems of the Minnesota creative scene from visual artists to performers and everything in between. The premiere episode, which debuted Thursday night on tpt2, features photographer Alec Soth, musicians the Twilight Hours, painter Joe Paquet, metal sculptor Heather Doyle and more. The MN Original website will stream episodes each week for those of you who don't have a telly, and also features fun sneak previews of interviews with of some of our favorites, like comic artist Zak Sally, fashion designer extraordinaire Emma Berg, and letterpressers Lunalux. We’ll be glued to our boob tubes every Thursday at 7:30pm!
Click HERE to visit the MN Original site
MNFASHION WEEK PICK
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Alter/Nation
@MNfashion Studio
Grainbelt Building
79 13th Ave. NE.
Minneapolis
1-5pm / $5
Local upcycling line CounterCouture is hosting an MNfashion Week event that is one part clothing swap, one part DIY workshop, and one part eco-fashion show. Donations will be accepting beginning April 22 from 4-7 p.m. at the MNfashion Studio (Grain Belt Bottling House, Studio #212) or during the event. Then the day of the event, you can pick out new items, and even have local designers customize the look or have Anthem Heart screen-print on it for only $5. The fashion show will include new looks from CounterCouture, Je Ne Regrette Rien, and Marissa Bridges, styled by I've Got Your Style.
Click HERE for more information
For even MORE Fashion Week events this weekend visit our Guide HERE
MNFASHION WEEK PICK
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
A Man's Show
@ The Lowry Theater
16 W. 5th St.
St. Paul
8-10pm / Free with RSVP to event@detailsmn.com
Guys don't ever seem to get as much attention as the ladies in the fashion scene. Fellas, feel neglected no more. This runway show will feature sartorial options from VState, Elsworth, Details Style Lab, and eyewear from the Spectacle Shoppe. Live music from the School of Rock’s student band Road Crew will provide a rockin’ accompaniment to the runway show, which includes an all-underwear segment. You can buy a retail discount ($10 for 10 percent up to $30 for 30 percent) for any of the retailers involved for a $5 donation, with proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Twin Cities.
Click HERE for more information
[A look from Elsworth at Envision; photo by Chris McDuffie]
For even MORE Fashion Week events this weekend visit our Guide HERE
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Chablis
@ 1620 Central Ave NE
Warehouse Dock 11
Minneapolis
8pm / $15 (early VIP reception $75)
If you love the arts – and we know you do – head over to Northeast grounds tonight for a delightful benefit gala celebrating one of our beloved local art galleries. Tonight’s sixth annual art soiree benefiting Midway Contemporary Arts features pieces from over 35 local, national and international artists in live and silent auctions. In other words, the chance to walk away with some really awesome art, not to mention the warm, fuzzy feeling that comes with supporting the local art scene! Nosh on delicious hors d’oeuvres and sip tasty signature cocktails (which are included in your ticket price, btw!) and schmooze with tons of artsy movers and shakers all while digging some fresh tunes courtesy of DJ Black Lacquer. For $75, join the VIP crew for a cocktail reception and art preview from 6:30-8 and be the first to scout out the artwork. All proceeds go towards supporting future Midway art programs, so dip into your pocketbooks and feel good about it. Oh, and did we mention it’s being held in a cool old warehouse? Neat-o!
Bonus: Our editor, Kate Iverson, is on the host committee for this event, so feel free to say you heard about it through her when you purchase your tickets online HERE!
Click HERE for more information
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
My Nameless Love
@ Cult Status Gallery
2913 Harriet Ave S
Minneapolis
8pm-Midnight / Free
When Cult Status gallery owner, Erin Sayer, was recently accosted by an anonymous “hater” phone call, she did the unthinkable – remixed it and made an art contest out of it asking for remastered versions of hater voicemail. But really, can you expect anything less from the owner of possibly the most badass gallery in town? Tonight, join the progressive art spot for another killer show featuring over 20 local artists in a exhibit with no themes, no boundaries “just pure 100%, raw love” fittingly entitled, My Nameless Love. Peep awesome art, chat about creative rebels and sip – oh what the heck – gulp(!) down free refreshments. Live dangerously! Cult Status approves.
Click HERE for Erin Sayer's “hater” remix.
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
The Dramatic Portrait: People & Nudes in the Badlands
@ Umber Studios
3109 E 42nd St.
Minneapolis
8pm / free
Last May, Doug Beasley led sixteen photographers and models to the badlands for a Vision Quest Workshop retreat. Expect nudes (ooh-la-la!), emotive figures, and spectacular scenarios. Mr. Beasley is a miracle worker with the camera, and his students in this exhibit channel his magic. Through May 10th.
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Nyteowl CD Release
@ Hexagon Bar
2600 27th Ave
Minneapolis
9pm / 21+ / Free
Romantic Life has been unleashed on the world! Nyteowl’s friends Lookbook, Foodteam, Cepia and Muxmool convene to welcome this little bundle of synthy pop into your eardrums. Congratulations, Nyteowl, it’s electric!
Click HERE for the Hexagon site
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Menergy
@ Kitty Cat Klub
315 14th Ave. SE
Minneapolis
10pm / No cover before 11:30 p.m., $3 after
DJs Bach, The Nightstalker and Sweet Talk Radio (that's Ken Hannigan of Anthem Heart's take on his Real Talk Radio moniker) converge for this month's edition of the newly-reinstated Menergy dance night. This time around, the kitschy, homoerotic-fueled dance night will feature the usual hard-hitting beats to disco melodies, plus a new addition: live video mixing by Time Squid (aka Hal Schuler). He'll be doing his futuristic video remixes of party guests, akin to Andy Warhol's infamous "Screen Tests," which were unveiled at Anthem Heart's Worn to be Wild party earlier this month. The boys will also be unveiling a new Menergy drink - purportedly a very manly concoction with vodka and Red Bull.
Click HERE for more information
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Mid-Fest Madness Party
@ Gallery 13
811 Lasalle Ave.
Minneapolis
9:30pm/$10 (or FREE to Film Fest Ticketholders!)
Following the MNSPIFF screening of the indie film Night Catches Us, Minneapolis’ Gallery 13 is hosting night of film-inspired mayhem! This year’s edition of the Mid-Fest Madness Party will include hot beats and yummy treats. City Pages’ newly named best DJ of 2010, Mike 2600, will be spinning the night away with a performance by the hotness that is Bight Club. Plus, Pizza Luce, Bona Vietnamese and the New French Bakery will be providing a ton of free yummies complimented by fresh lager from Summit Brewing Co. Come out to dance, chow down and watch Minneapolis’ finest B-Boys (like New Heist Crew, Warriors and Optimistic Crew) battle it out on the dance floor.
Click HERE for the Gallery 13 site
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Attitude City
@ Clubhouse Jager
913 Washington Ave
Minneapolis
10pm / 21+ / Free
Our favorite dance party is back! The badass boys of Attitude City are at it again with their monthly installation of music and mayhem. Join the DJ duo for a night of delicious dance beats and Clubhouse Jager’s tasty cocktails. Not only is it free, but we guarantee that you’ll have an awesome time mingling (and sweating) with some of Minneapolis’ finest.
Click HERE for the Attitude City site
SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: PUNCHES
This Sunday’s music pick, Punches, is exactly the type of tunes you would expect: a techno slam of beats that will get your blood pumping and your body moving. This new-fangled colab of bloggers including NYC duo Finger on the Pulse (fotpnyc.com), remixers (like New Yorker Alan Astor), brand promoters (their main man The Kid Robb), party hosters and disco DJs that hail all the way from Brooklyn, NY. Lucky for us, the team is all about bringing the most upbeat grooves and catchy dance remixes just in time for summer! If you like what you hear, listen in and help them get #1 on Hype Machine with their “Only You Can You Make You Happy” remix.
Click HERE to check out the remix
SUNDAY APRIL 25TH
Riot Act Reading Series
@ Turf Club
Clown Lounge (basement)
1601 University Ave.
W. St. Paul
7 pm / 21+/ $5
Tonight, the Turf Club's rebellious ruffians aren't the stumbling lushes in the corner – they're the literary hooligans with the mic! The Riot Act Reading Series returns to the Turf Club's Clown Lounge after a couple cameos in the 612 with a kick ass line up of rowdy readers. Hemled by punk poet Paul D. Dickinson along with clever cohort Laura Brandenburg, tonight's extra special edition will feature a solid lineup of performers including renowned poet Brett Eugene Ralph (author of Black Sabbatical, Paula Cisewski, and Steve Marsh. Stick around after the reading for Hairy Karaoke -- we hear Paul D. has promised to sing "Eye of the Tiger" and that alone ought to be worth the trip.
Click HERE for the Facebook Event
TUESDAY APRIL 27TH
JagerCon: Sci-Fi Tuesdays
@ Clubhouse Jager
923 Washington Avenue N.
Minneapolis
Every Tuesday
10 p.m. / 21+ / Free
Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!
Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.
NEW SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED!
APR 27: Tank Girl
MAY 4: Moon
MAY 11: Ghostbusters
MAY 18: Pontypool
MAY 25: Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy
JUN 1: The Neverending Story
This Week's Flick is Tank Girl!
L'ÈTOILE NEWSWIRE
VOTE FOR L'ÈTOILE STAFFER BRIAN GIOIELLI!
Excuse us while we gush. l'étoile's own advertising manager, Brian Gioielli is one of the finalists
for the annual One Man Minneapolis contest! The competition identifies the one man in the Twin Cities who represents the best of the best from the perspectives of community involvement, personality, intelligence and fitness. Well, if you ask us, Brian embodies all of these! Our boy not only volunteers his time for l'étoile, but also does a ton of charity work including being the Vice President on the St. Paul Festival Association board, 12 Bars of Christmas charity event co-organizer, and YMCA volunteer. He's also hilarious, adorable, and one of the most kind-hearted and fun dudes we've ever met.
The best part? If Brian wins, he gets to donate $2500 to his choice of charity, and has even committed $1000 of his personal winnings to l'etoile, so we can put together outfits to donate to another great non-profit, Dress for Success! Isn't he sweet? Vote for Brian every day starting this Friday at www.onemanminneapolis.com!!!!
Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Lacey Prpic Hedtke, Juleana Enright, Lauren Gantner, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Rob Callahan, Beth Hammarlund, Jahna Peloquin
MNFashion Week is still in full swing and we couldn't be happier! Springtime styles abound and the fun, well, it's a-plenty. While we've got a number of cool fashion-related events featured in this week's edition (see our Guide to MNFashion Week for the full lineup) there are also more art, film and music events than you can possibly shake a stick at. Be sure to join us on Friday for our official MNFashion Week event, Imagination Mechanism at the Eitel Building!
xo-l'étoile
Photo from l'étoile's 'Kiss me, Cake'
photo shoot, debuting at Friday's event!
photo shoot, debuting at Friday's event!
THIS WEEK ON L'ETOILE
Check out our full guide to MNFashion Week HERE
Beth Hammarlund reviews Voltage: Fashion Amplified HERE
Jahna Peloquin updates our Sales and Shopping Guide HERE
FRIDAY ART-A-WHIRL PREVIEW: DANIEL BUETTNER
With Art-A-Whirl quickly approaching, May 14-16, we thought it proper to clue you in on some awesome artists who will be showing their work this year! Check back each week leading up to the Whirl for more artist spotlights, plus our big guide to Art-A-Whirl 2010 the week-of! This week's pick is the talented Daniel Buettner.
What do a robot, a chicken and a handbag all have in common? Why, local artist Daniel Buettner of course! The first in our series of Art-a-Whirl spotlights, Buettner’s paintings are a hodgepodge of ubiquitous objects juxtaposed in one free association stream of consciousness. His works are pop references to everyday life where a hand grenade seems perfectly at home assembled near a sole go-go boot and a whoopie cushion. We can’t wait to see what the artist has in store for Art-a-Whirl, and frankly, we can’t even begin to guess. Catch Buettner at the Northrup King Building during Art-a-Whirl’s whirlwindy weekend, showcasing sooner than you can say “I heart Northeast.”
Click HERE for the Daniel Buettner site and visit www.nemaa.org for more information on Art-A-Whirl 2010!
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD (THROUGH SUNDAY)
St. Paul Art Crawl
Various Locations / Free
6pm-10pm Friday, Noon-8pm Saturday, Noon-5pm Sunday
An overwhelming amount of creativity and ingenuity makes up this annual spring art extravaganza. Some people say St. Paul is sleepy, but the bazillion or so artists who call Capital City home prove otherwise. Traverse old warehouses and lofts, galleries and coffee shops and lay eyes on pretty much every kind of art imaginable. Tour studios, party arty and meet the artists who make the pieces you’re drooling over -- and if you’re smart -- you'll take home as much as you can carry. Highlights? Well, there are definitely too many to list here, but we'd suggest visiting the Northern Warehouse which will feature a film room where you can watch video pieces created by they buildings' artists; a gallery show of artists Daniel Choma and Jamie Paul Lamb; work by prolific painter Kara Hendershot and many more in dozens of artist studios throughout the building, plus 33% off work by awesome photographer Rhea Pappas, whose dreamy underwater pix make us wish we were mermaids. We'd also suggest popping into the Black Dog Cafe where live music by Carnage, Beatrix Jar and more will entertain throughout the weekend. Another great stop would be the Back Alley Gallery where renowned illustrator DWITT will be holding court with his merry art collective, shilling reasonable priced prints and an eclectic range of original artwork. Hit up 262 4th Street East to find the In Progress art show featuring work by a number of local artists revolving around the theme of how our environments affect us and the people around us. Last but not least, l'etoile fave Jesse Draxler and Justin Sehorn present Bloodtime at the Everest Building. Check out the link below and snag the printable map!
Click HERE for more info and a map of all the locations!
Art by Dillon Bakke, showing at the In Progress exhibit
MN FASHION WEEK PICK
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD
Imagination Mechanism
@ Eitel Building City Apartments
(Rooftop Sky Park 7th flr)
1367 Willow St
Minneapolis
7pm-10:30pm / Free
Join us for a real-time peek inside the creative process of fashion photography! We’ll return once again to the Eitel Building’s gorgeous Rooftop Sky Park on Loring Park for a stylish, interactive mixer that will invite you to play creative director for a day. Try your hand at designing fashion photo shoot mood boards and story boards with the help of l’étoile and Secrets of the City staff, then watch as l'etoile implements these same processes to create a live fashion photo shoot that will include everything from styling, shooting, retouching, and even editorial layout — all right before your eyes. Complimentary refreshments will be available, including hot n' tasty apps from Ginger Hop restaurant and even hotter people. And dress to impress: we’ll be giving away multiple pairs of tickets to the Guthrie Theater's production of M. Butterfly to the most “fashion photo ready” attendees! Sponsored by l’étoile magazine, Secrets of the City, Vision Models, Eitel Building City Apartments, and Ginger Hop Restaurant.
Click HERE for the Facebook event
For even MORE Fashion Week events this weekend visit our Guide HERE
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD
Specimen
@ Ex-Anthony Shane Florist
1901 Nicollet Ave
Minneapolis
7-10pm / Free
Grown out of the petri dish of local arts, the five artists involved in tonight’s exhibit offer up a mixed medium showcase of science, experimentation and discovery sans the microscope slides. Join artists Abbi Allen, Chad Sokoloski, Raina Belleau, Adriana Rimpel and Andrew Vomhof for an opening bash you don’t have to be a science geek to enjoy. Sip down tasty refreshments and groove to tunes while you peek tonight’s pedagogical pieces. Lab coat not required!
Click HERE for the Facebook event
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD
Home
@ 1419
The Basement
1419 Washington Avenue
(Seven Corners)
Minneapolis
8pm / Free
Head to the the 1419 space on the fringe of the West Bank this evening for some underground art mayhem! Home features work from Twin Cities artists loosely influenced by the idea of the word "home." Featuring the work of Celestine Pueringer, Inna Royzenfeld, Will Hayes, Miles Mendenhall, Robbie Yates, Will Grant, Aaron Anderson, Eric Carlson, Mike Burrill, Sophie Weil, Alex Oskie, Tim Hudson and Jake Stein.
Click HERE for the Facebook event
MNFASHION WEEK PICK:
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD (THROUGH SATURDAY)
"Catwalk Cabaret Fashion Ball"What: This fashion ball and Ballet of the Dolls benefit is an evening full of high-end fashion, produced and styled by Grant Whittaker and Myron Johnson (the creative team behind not only Ballet of the Dolls but also Glamorama). Guests will experience a full, avant-garde cabaret with four luxury runway shows and a pop-up boutique, with fashions supplied by Grethen House, John Novachis, Specs Optical and Ann Lambrecht Jewelry. Tickets are $30 and available at The Ritz box office or online at www.ritzdolls.com (and include a complimentary Prairie Vodka cocktail).
When: 7:30-11 p.m. (8 p.m. show.) Friday, April 23 & Saturday, April 24. Where: Ritz Theater, 345 13th Ave. NE., Minneapolis. 612-436-1129. www.ritzdolls.com
For even MORE Fashion Week events this weekend visit our Guide HERE
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD
Rebel Rebel: Rock for Pussy VII
@ First Ave
701 1st Ave North
Minneapolis
8pm / 18+ / $10
This Friday night, glitz, glitter and glam reign supreme at Rock For Pussy – the 7th annual tribute to David Bowie. Curated by 89.3 The Current fave Mary Lucia, The evening’s house band includes musicians from sexy musical savants Jim Walsh, Christian Erickson, The Honeydogs, and E.L.nO., while lead vocals will be handled by singer-songwriter Jeremy Messersmith, Lori Barbero, Janey Winterbauer, ex-Jayhawk Marc Perlman, Ciaran Daly of Idle Hands, and many more in a musical homage to the Thin White Duke himself. Dress up in your Bowie best and shakedown to the hottest glam jams. All proceeds benefit the Minnesota Valley Humane Society Cat Shelter. Seriously people, who doesn’t want to help a bunch of destitute little pussies? Meow!
Click HERE for the Facebook event
FRIDAY APRIL 23RD
Pegasus presents TIRED: A Celebration of Gay Cliche
@ Bedlam Theater
1501 S. 6th. St.
Minneapolis
10pm / 21+
Oh, this will be fun. Gay clichés and stereotypes will be in full effect tonight. Drive your Lesburu or bike on your fixie to hear tunes a la Judy Garland, Cher, and a plethora of '90s divas. Fake tan stripping is promised, and we can only wish for one Indigo Girls song. Possibly the best idea ever.
Click HERE for the Bedlam site
COOL LINK: MN ORIGINAL
We really live in the best state! Not one to let an artist go uncelebrated, this new weekly half hour show on Twin Cities Public Television highlights all the hidden and sparkling gems of the Minnesota creative scene from visual artists to performers and everything in between. The premiere episode, which debuted Thursday night on tpt2, features photographer Alec Soth, musicians the Twilight Hours, painter Joe Paquet, metal sculptor Heather Doyle and more. The MN Original website will stream episodes each week for those of you who don't have a telly, and also features fun sneak previews of interviews with of some of our favorites, like comic artist Zak Sally, fashion designer extraordinaire Emma Berg, and letterpressers Lunalux. We’ll be glued to our boob tubes every Thursday at 7:30pm!
Click HERE to visit the MN Original site
Show 101: Tease from mn original on Vimeo.
MNFASHION WEEK PICK
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Alter/Nation
@MNfashion Studio
Grainbelt Building
79 13th Ave. NE.
Minneapolis
1-5pm / $5
Local upcycling line CounterCouture is hosting an MNfashion Week event that is one part clothing swap, one part DIY workshop, and one part eco-fashion show. Donations will be accepting beginning April 22 from 4-7 p.m. at the MNfashion Studio (Grain Belt Bottling House, Studio #212) or during the event. Then the day of the event, you can pick out new items, and even have local designers customize the look or have Anthem Heart screen-print on it for only $5. The fashion show will include new looks from CounterCouture, Je Ne Regrette Rien, and Marissa Bridges, styled by I've Got Your Style.
Click HERE for more information
For even MORE Fashion Week events this weekend visit our Guide HERE
MNFASHION WEEK PICK
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
A Man's Show
@ The Lowry Theater
16 W. 5th St.
St. Paul
8-10pm / Free with RSVP to event@detailsmn.com
Guys don't ever seem to get as much attention as the ladies in the fashion scene. Fellas, feel neglected no more. This runway show will feature sartorial options from VState, Elsworth, Details Style Lab, and eyewear from the Spectacle Shoppe. Live music from the School of Rock’s student band Road Crew will provide a rockin’ accompaniment to the runway show, which includes an all-underwear segment. You can buy a retail discount ($10 for 10 percent up to $30 for 30 percent) for any of the retailers involved for a $5 donation, with proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Twin Cities.
Click HERE for more information
[A look from Elsworth at Envision; photo by Chris McDuffie]For even MORE Fashion Week events this weekend visit our Guide HERE
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Chablis
@ 1620 Central Ave NE
Warehouse Dock 11
Minneapolis
8pm / $15 (early VIP reception $75)
If you love the arts – and we know you do – head over to Northeast grounds tonight for a delightful benefit gala celebrating one of our beloved local art galleries. Tonight’s sixth annual art soiree benefiting Midway Contemporary Arts features pieces from over 35 local, national and international artists in live and silent auctions. In other words, the chance to walk away with some really awesome art, not to mention the warm, fuzzy feeling that comes with supporting the local art scene! Nosh on delicious hors d’oeuvres and sip tasty signature cocktails (which are included in your ticket price, btw!) and schmooze with tons of artsy movers and shakers all while digging some fresh tunes courtesy of DJ Black Lacquer. For $75, join the VIP crew for a cocktail reception and art preview from 6:30-8 and be the first to scout out the artwork. All proceeds go towards supporting future Midway art programs, so dip into your pocketbooks and feel good about it. Oh, and did we mention it’s being held in a cool old warehouse? Neat-o!
Bonus: Our editor, Kate Iverson, is on the host committee for this event, so feel free to say you heard about it through her when you purchase your tickets online HERE!
Click HERE for more information
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
My Nameless Love
@ Cult Status Gallery
2913 Harriet Ave S
Minneapolis
8pm-Midnight / Free
When Cult Status gallery owner, Erin Sayer, was recently accosted by an anonymous “hater” phone call, she did the unthinkable – remixed it and made an art contest out of it asking for remastered versions of hater voicemail. But really, can you expect anything less from the owner of possibly the most badass gallery in town? Tonight, join the progressive art spot for another killer show featuring over 20 local artists in a exhibit with no themes, no boundaries “just pure 100%, raw love” fittingly entitled, My Nameless Love. Peep awesome art, chat about creative rebels and sip – oh what the heck – gulp(!) down free refreshments. Live dangerously! Cult Status approves.
Click HERE for Erin Sayer's “hater” remix.
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
The Dramatic Portrait: People & Nudes in the Badlands
@ Umber Studios
3109 E 42nd St.
Minneapolis
8pm / free
Last May, Doug Beasley led sixteen photographers and models to the badlands for a Vision Quest Workshop retreat. Expect nudes (ooh-la-la!), emotive figures, and spectacular scenarios. Mr. Beasley is a miracle worker with the camera, and his students in this exhibit channel his magic. Through May 10th.
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Nyteowl CD Release
@ Hexagon Bar
2600 27th Ave
Minneapolis
9pm / 21+ / Free
Romantic Life has been unleashed on the world! Nyteowl’s friends Lookbook, Foodteam, Cepia and Muxmool convene to welcome this little bundle of synthy pop into your eardrums. Congratulations, Nyteowl, it’s electric!
Click HERE for the Hexagon site
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Menergy
@ Kitty Cat Klub
315 14th Ave. SE
Minneapolis
10pm / No cover before 11:30 p.m., $3 after
DJs Bach, The Nightstalker and Sweet Talk Radio (that's Ken Hannigan of Anthem Heart's take on his Real Talk Radio moniker) converge for this month's edition of the newly-reinstated Menergy dance night. This time around, the kitschy, homoerotic-fueled dance night will feature the usual hard-hitting beats to disco melodies, plus a new addition: live video mixing by Time Squid (aka Hal Schuler). He'll be doing his futuristic video remixes of party guests, akin to Andy Warhol's infamous "Screen Tests," which were unveiled at Anthem Heart's Worn to be Wild party earlier this month. The boys will also be unveiling a new Menergy drink - purportedly a very manly concoction with vodka and Red Bull.
Click HERE for more information
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Mid-Fest Madness Party
@ Gallery 13
811 Lasalle Ave.
Minneapolis
9:30pm/$10 (or FREE to Film Fest Ticketholders!)
Following the MNSPIFF screening of the indie film Night Catches Us, Minneapolis’ Gallery 13 is hosting night of film-inspired mayhem! This year’s edition of the Mid-Fest Madness Party will include hot beats and yummy treats. City Pages’ newly named best DJ of 2010, Mike 2600, will be spinning the night away with a performance by the hotness that is Bight Club. Plus, Pizza Luce, Bona Vietnamese and the New French Bakery will be providing a ton of free yummies complimented by fresh lager from Summit Brewing Co. Come out to dance, chow down and watch Minneapolis’ finest B-Boys (like New Heist Crew, Warriors and Optimistic Crew) battle it out on the dance floor.
Click HERE for the Gallery 13 site
SATURDAY APRIL 24TH
Attitude City
@ Clubhouse Jager
913 Washington Ave
Minneapolis
10pm / 21+ / Free
Our favorite dance party is back! The badass boys of Attitude City are at it again with their monthly installation of music and mayhem. Join the DJ duo for a night of delicious dance beats and Clubhouse Jager’s tasty cocktails. Not only is it free, but we guarantee that you’ll have an awesome time mingling (and sweating) with some of Minneapolis’ finest.
Click HERE for the Attitude City site
SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: PUNCHES
This Sunday’s music pick, Punches, is exactly the type of tunes you would expect: a techno slam of beats that will get your blood pumping and your body moving. This new-fangled colab of bloggers including NYC duo Finger on the Pulse (fotpnyc.com), remixers (like New Yorker Alan Astor), brand promoters (their main man The Kid Robb), party hosters and disco DJs that hail all the way from Brooklyn, NY. Lucky for us, the team is all about bringing the most upbeat grooves and catchy dance remixes just in time for summer! If you like what you hear, listen in and help them get #1 on Hype Machine with their “Only You Can You Make You Happy” remix.
Click HERE to check out the remix
SUNDAY APRIL 25TH
Riot Act Reading Series
@ Turf Club
Clown Lounge (basement)
1601 University Ave.
W. St. Paul
7 pm / 21+/ $5
Tonight, the Turf Club's rebellious ruffians aren't the stumbling lushes in the corner – they're the literary hooligans with the mic! The Riot Act Reading Series returns to the Turf Club's Clown Lounge after a couple cameos in the 612 with a kick ass line up of rowdy readers. Hemled by punk poet Paul D. Dickinson along with clever cohort Laura Brandenburg, tonight's extra special edition will feature a solid lineup of performers including renowned poet Brett Eugene Ralph (author of Black Sabbatical, Paula Cisewski, and Steve Marsh. Stick around after the reading for Hairy Karaoke -- we hear Paul D. has promised to sing "Eye of the Tiger" and that alone ought to be worth the trip.
Click HERE for the Facebook Event
TUESDAY APRIL 27TH
JagerCon: Sci-Fi Tuesdays
@ Clubhouse Jager
923 Washington Avenue N.
Minneapolis
Every Tuesday
10 p.m. / 21+ / Free
Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!
Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.
NEW SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED!
APR 27: Tank Girl
MAY 4: Moon
MAY 11: Ghostbusters
MAY 18: Pontypool
MAY 25: Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy
JUN 1: The Neverending Story
This Week's Flick is Tank Girl!
L'ÈTOILE NEWSWIRE
VOTE FOR L'ÈTOILE STAFFER BRIAN GIOIELLI!
Excuse us while we gush. l'étoile's own advertising manager, Brian Gioielli is one of the finalists
for the annual One Man Minneapolis contest! The competition identifies the one man in the Twin Cities who represents the best of the best from the perspectives of community involvement, personality, intelligence and fitness. Well, if you ask us, Brian embodies all of these! Our boy not only volunteers his time for l'étoile, but also does a ton of charity work including being the Vice President on the St. Paul Festival Association board, 12 Bars of Christmas charity event co-organizer, and YMCA volunteer. He's also hilarious, adorable, and one of the most kind-hearted and fun dudes we've ever met.The best part? If Brian wins, he gets to donate $2500 to his choice of charity, and has even committed $1000 of his personal winnings to l'etoile, so we can put together outfits to donate to another great non-profit, Dress for Success! Isn't he sweet? Vote for Brian every day starting this Friday at www.onemanminneapolis.com!!!!
Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Lacey Prpic Hedtke, Juleana Enright, Lauren Gantner, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Rob Callahan, Beth Hammarlund, Jahna Peloquin
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
MNfashion Week in review: Voltage: Fashion Amplified
by Beth Hammarlund
An annual staple of the local fashion and music scenes, Voltage: Fashion Amplified has become one of those rare events that manages to outdo itself every year. This year, MNFashion's pièce de résistance was as big as ever in the First Avenue Mainroom, bringing together five bands and over 15 local designers with seamless execution.
[Blue Sky Blackout in Blackblue. Photo by Digital Crush]
[A look by Kelson by Brianne Jones. Photo by Digital Crush]
Red Pens kicked off the next set outfitted in looks by local design rock star Kerry Riley of Red Shoe Clothing Co. Riley suited guitarist Howard Hamilton in casual menswear, while drummer Laura Bennett was glammed up in a show-stopping gown with a cathedral-length train and a deconstructed bleach treatment. Brianne Jones' line Kelson took to the runway next with a series of contemporary looks, which were quite a departure from Jones' collection for Voltage 2008 under the line Belle. Though it didn't have as strong of a point of view as Belle, at times seeming disjointed, there were plenty of items in the mix that were both interesting and completely wearable. Accessory designer Karin Jacobson's recent foray into lower-priced laser-cut pieces was the perfect compliment, and stylist Alice Sydow of I've Got Your Style created a presentation that would appeal to just about any city girl.
[A look by Elena Mercurio. Photo by Digital Crush]
Local fashion rookie Elena Mercurio made her Voltage debut with a collection that included the most innovative piece of the entire show: a white evening coat with artfully placed openings in lieu of traditional sleeves. Felt accessories by silvercocoon and bags by Post- helped give the collection a modern feel, and the scrunched socks worn with open-toed wedges were a nice touch added by stylist Mike Head. Mercurio's aesthetic is brimming with potential. In this collection, she seemed to struggle with her confidence and consistency, but she approached the task with such ambition that it's impossible not to be excited about what she'll do next.
Caroline Smith must be sick of Jenny Lewis and Kate Nash comparisons, but when the stunning redhead and her dapper band The Good Night Sleeps took the stage in looks by design duo Calpurnia Peach, the comparisons were certainly apt. Smith's dress, featuring a wallpaper print that has become a signature of the designers, had a delightful retro feel. It was the perfect kick start for the next two designers to hit the runway.
[A look by Danielle Everine. Photo by Digital Crush]
Fashion stylist Trevor Small clearly enjoyed working with Danielle Everine's collection. The designer's windowpane plaid women's suiting and soft blouses were beautifully complimented with wide-brimmed millinery by Angie's Hats, dainty gloves, grosgrain hair bows and men's ties. Everine's leather accents and clever cuts kept the collection from feeling dated, and the result was a presentation that was truly entertaining to witness. The hair and makeup were on trend with kicky side braids and exaggerated brows, thanks to a strong vision by Voltage lead stylists Catlin Weston (hair) and Ashley Kilcher (makeup), but it was the voluminous upsweeps that would have made Katharine Hepburn green with envy.
Local rock icon in-the-making Mayda took over the stage wearing a look by Laura Fulk that included a violet scarf-vest accented with LED lights. Fashion fixture George Moskal presented as the pint-sized singer performed, offering an extremely wearable collection of sophisticated separates and cocktail dresses. A dramatically-shaped teal frock practically cried out for a turban; it was so deliciously Dynasty. But where his designs really excel is in separates, where he blends casual elements such as t-shirt cuts and chest pockets with elegant draping and timeless fabrics. With accessories by Liebling Designs jewelry, Nelle handbags, and fingerless black gloves adding a tough edge, stylist Trevor Small's presentation gave audience members plenty of new additions for their mental shopping lists.
The show shifted from the sophisticated to the unconventional with Kevin Kramp's avant-garde collection of men's knits. Gaping cowl necks and wild patterns were teamed with edgy accessories by Ferociter and OGI Eyewear. A scarf so heavily looped and layered around a model's neck and shoulders created a silhouette both attractive and unsettling, faintly recalling the hunched Skeksis in The Dark Crystal. The daring collection was styled by Zach Pearl, whose handmade, colorful sport sandals worn with socks was a deft contribution to the overall look and feel of the collection. With bold makeup and cornrows conceived of by lead stylists Ashley Kilcher and Catlin Weston, respectively, it was the most aggressive and forward-thinking presentation of the evening.
[A look by PFT Couture. Photo by Digital Crush]
Anthem Heart (with design help from Monica Ulrich) supplied closing band Ruby Isle with the appropriate party gear for a crowd-pleasing finale. PFT Couture's Pafoua Thao brought the show right into summer with flowing mini-dresses in tropical prints. With bold white and gold earrings by Two Bit Bling, bird-of-paradise fascinators by Ruby3 (designed by Voltage producer Anna Lee), and adorable clutches by Christopher Straub of Project Runway fame, the collection practically begged for poolside cabanas and Mai Tais. A plunging white gown with black calligraphy strokes brought to mind both Dolce & Gabbana's recent Marilyn Monroe-printed frocks and Christian Dior's iconic newspaper print dress. Thao hit her high note with an Asian-inspired finale gown, a dramatic number that showcased her skill for fabric manipulation.
[A look by Emma Berg. Photo by Digital Crush]
For the finale, mplsart.com director Emma Berg further established herself in the fashion community with an array of mouthwatering finale confections. Blouses, harem pants and layered skirts showcased Berg's ability to craft separates that range from avant-garde to conservative (relatively speaking). A kaleidoscopic firecracker print created by local artist Ruben Nusz served as a throughline for the collection in both style and color. The sweetness of the designs and the edible Rox Jewelry by Robyne Robinson were tempered with edgy bags by Christopher Straub and styling inspired by the designer herself. Models in cropped black wigs, dark netted veils and goth lipstick complimented the dessert-like quality of the designs, creating a ladylike juxtaposition often seen at major couture houses such as Christian Dior and the now defunct Christian Lacroix. Like good perfume, the overall effect was sweet, but never cloying.
[PFT Couture's collection. Photo by Digital Crush]
It is truly inspiring to watch so many people come together and, through talent and hard work, actualize such a fantastic sartorial spectacle. Over the past few years, Voltage has become the prime springboard for aspiring fashion designers, stylists and models, as well as the ultimate marketing opportunity for more established lines. Lead Stylist Jahna Peloquin, a veteran of the Voltage crew (and l'étoile Fashion Editor), approaches the collections with just as much wit and sophistication as the stylists working New York Fashion Week, and founder Anna Lee has taken her creation to greater heights every year. This year's Voltage show truly showcased just how established the Twin Cities fashion scene has become in recent years.
Visit www.digitalcrushphoto.com for more Voltage 2010 photos by Digital Crush.
An annual staple of the local fashion and music scenes, Voltage: Fashion Amplified has become one of those rare events that manages to outdo itself every year. This year, MNFashion's pièce de résistance was as big as ever in the First Avenue Mainroom, bringing together five bands and over 15 local designers with seamless execution.
[A look by Raul Osorio. Photo by Digital Crush]
The runway show opened with designs by Raul Osorio, a new designer quickly becoming known for well-cut and beautifully draped menswear. The military-inspired jackets with over-sized buttons and epaulets would have been elegant additions to the costume wardrobe of the Guthrie Theatre's recent production of Macbeth. Impeccable trousers with trim and pocket details in complimentary colors were juxtaposed with gently draped hoods and scarves. Osorio and stylist Danica Andler worked with jewelry designer Carrier Pigeon to craft a custom line of chains, brooches and necklaces for the collection, and the exaggerated pompadours and chiseled makeup perfectly complimented the line's aesthetic.
[A look by Frances Zerr. Photo by Digital Crush]
Frances Zerr's collection took to the stage next. The designer's series of wearable garments offered relaxed features such as elastic waistbands, drawstrings and flat pockets, but the pieces were hardly loungewear. The line offered elegant racerback tanks, sundresses with edgy cut-outs, and a fresh take on the shirtdress. Stylist Angie Hanson accessorized the collection with flirty bits and baubles by local upcyclers Vintage City Classics and fresh-from-the-market props and laidback fedoras. The line was perfectly suited for leisurely bike rides and summer afternoons spent drinking chilled wine outside Barbette. Speaking of which, any of these looks would be perfect for the restaurant's annual Bastille Day block party this summer.
[Blue Sky Blackout in Blackblue. Photo by Digital Crush]Osorio's and Zerr's collections went out to a soundtrack courtesy of new supergroup Blue Sky Blackout in dapper looks styled by Steve Kang, owner of St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. Kang managed to get the boys out of their usual black uniforms and into seersucker suits fit for gin and tonic-swilling Nantucketers. The looks were dressed down with pastel polos in varying shades, and it's a testament to guitarist Jon Hunt's swagger that he was able to make aquamarine look so very rock and roll.
[A look by Kelson by Brianne Jones. Photo by Digital Crush]Red Pens kicked off the next set outfitted in looks by local design rock star Kerry Riley of Red Shoe Clothing Co. Riley suited guitarist Howard Hamilton in casual menswear, while drummer Laura Bennett was glammed up in a show-stopping gown with a cathedral-length train and a deconstructed bleach treatment. Brianne Jones' line Kelson took to the runway next with a series of contemporary looks, which were quite a departure from Jones' collection for Voltage 2008 under the line Belle. Though it didn't have as strong of a point of view as Belle, at times seeming disjointed, there were plenty of items in the mix that were both interesting and completely wearable. Accessory designer Karin Jacobson's recent foray into lower-priced laser-cut pieces was the perfect compliment, and stylist Alice Sydow of I've Got Your Style created a presentation that would appeal to just about any city girl.
[A look by Elena Mercurio. Photo by Digital Crush]Local fashion rookie Elena Mercurio made her Voltage debut with a collection that included the most innovative piece of the entire show: a white evening coat with artfully placed openings in lieu of traditional sleeves. Felt accessories by silvercocoon and bags by Post- helped give the collection a modern feel, and the scrunched socks worn with open-toed wedges were a nice touch added by stylist Mike Head. Mercurio's aesthetic is brimming with potential. In this collection, she seemed to struggle with her confidence and consistency, but she approached the task with such ambition that it's impossible not to be excited about what she'll do next.
Caroline Smith must be sick of Jenny Lewis and Kate Nash comparisons, but when the stunning redhead and her dapper band The Good Night Sleeps took the stage in looks by design duo Calpurnia Peach, the comparisons were certainly apt. Smith's dress, featuring a wallpaper print that has become a signature of the designers, had a delightful retro feel. It was the perfect kick start for the next two designers to hit the runway.
[A look by Danielle Everine. Photo by Digital Crush]Fashion stylist Trevor Small clearly enjoyed working with Danielle Everine's collection. The designer's windowpane plaid women's suiting and soft blouses were beautifully complimented with wide-brimmed millinery by Angie's Hats, dainty gloves, grosgrain hair bows and men's ties. Everine's leather accents and clever cuts kept the collection from feeling dated, and the result was a presentation that was truly entertaining to witness. The hair and makeup were on trend with kicky side braids and exaggerated brows, thanks to a strong vision by Voltage lead stylists Catlin Weston (hair) and Ashley Kilcher (makeup), but it was the voluminous upsweeps that would have made Katharine Hepburn green with envy.
[A look by Carmichael Claith. Photo by Digital Crush]
Carmichael Claith by Christine Carmichael followed with a series of looks begging to be worn by British model Karen Elson on a Brighton Beach holiday. The collection opened with several boardwalk-appropriate nautical pieces and gently evolved into the girlish femininity that the line has become known for. The ladylike prints and ruffles were accessorized with exaggerated bowties, over-sized bows, and tiny accent bowler hats (which I'm sure METRO Magazine Fashion Editor Mary O'Regan had her eye on). Accessory designers Pea's & Bean's must have been head-over-heels for how well the pieces all worked together. Heeled oxfords, delicate ankle socks and fishtail braids completed the looks. It was a great showing by fashion stylist Zach Pearl.
[Mayda in Laura Fulk and model in George Moskal. Photo by Digital Crush]
[Mayda in Laura Fulk and model in George Moskal. Photo by Digital Crush]Local rock icon in-the-making Mayda took over the stage wearing a look by Laura Fulk that included a violet scarf-vest accented with LED lights. Fashion fixture George Moskal presented as the pint-sized singer performed, offering an extremely wearable collection of sophisticated separates and cocktail dresses. A dramatically-shaped teal frock practically cried out for a turban; it was so deliciously Dynasty. But where his designs really excel is in separates, where he blends casual elements such as t-shirt cuts and chest pockets with elegant draping and timeless fabrics. With accessories by Liebling Designs jewelry, Nelle handbags, and fingerless black gloves adding a tough edge, stylist Trevor Small's presentation gave audience members plenty of new additions for their mental shopping lists.
[A look by Kevin Kramp. Photo by Digital Crush]
The show shifted from the sophisticated to the unconventional with Kevin Kramp's avant-garde collection of men's knits. Gaping cowl necks and wild patterns were teamed with edgy accessories by Ferociter and OGI Eyewear. A scarf so heavily looped and layered around a model's neck and shoulders created a silhouette both attractive and unsettling, faintly recalling the hunched Skeksis in The Dark Crystal. The daring collection was styled by Zach Pearl, whose handmade, colorful sport sandals worn with socks was a deft contribution to the overall look and feel of the collection. With bold makeup and cornrows conceived of by lead stylists Ashley Kilcher and Catlin Weston, respectively, it was the most aggressive and forward-thinking presentation of the evening.
[A look by PFT Couture. Photo by Digital Crush]Anthem Heart (with design help from Monica Ulrich) supplied closing band Ruby Isle with the appropriate party gear for a crowd-pleasing finale. PFT Couture's Pafoua Thao brought the show right into summer with flowing mini-dresses in tropical prints. With bold white and gold earrings by Two Bit Bling, bird-of-paradise fascinators by Ruby3 (designed by Voltage producer Anna Lee), and adorable clutches by Christopher Straub of Project Runway fame, the collection practically begged for poolside cabanas and Mai Tais. A plunging white gown with black calligraphy strokes brought to mind both Dolce & Gabbana's recent Marilyn Monroe-printed frocks and Christian Dior's iconic newspaper print dress. Thao hit her high note with an Asian-inspired finale gown, a dramatic number that showcased her skill for fabric manipulation.
[A look by Emma Berg. Photo by Digital Crush]For the finale, mplsart.com director Emma Berg further established herself in the fashion community with an array of mouthwatering finale confections. Blouses, harem pants and layered skirts showcased Berg's ability to craft separates that range from avant-garde to conservative (relatively speaking). A kaleidoscopic firecracker print created by local artist Ruben Nusz served as a throughline for the collection in both style and color. The sweetness of the designs and the edible Rox Jewelry by Robyne Robinson were tempered with edgy bags by Christopher Straub and styling inspired by the designer herself. Models in cropped black wigs, dark netted veils and goth lipstick complimented the dessert-like quality of the designs, creating a ladylike juxtaposition often seen at major couture houses such as Christian Dior and the now defunct Christian Lacroix. Like good perfume, the overall effect was sweet, but never cloying.
[PFT Couture's collection. Photo by Digital Crush]It is truly inspiring to watch so many people come together and, through talent and hard work, actualize such a fantastic sartorial spectacle. Over the past few years, Voltage has become the prime springboard for aspiring fashion designers, stylists and models, as well as the ultimate marketing opportunity for more established lines. Lead Stylist Jahna Peloquin, a veteran of the Voltage crew (and l'étoile Fashion Editor), approaches the collections with just as much wit and sophistication as the stylists working New York Fashion Week, and founder Anna Lee has taken her creation to greater heights every year. This year's Voltage show truly showcased just how established the Twin Cities fashion scene has become in recent years.
Visit www.digitalcrushphoto.com for more Voltage 2010 photos by Digital Crush.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
l'etoile's Guide to Spring MNfashion Week 2: April 19-25
Here at l’étoile, MNfashion Week is one of our favorite times of the year. When else can you have so many stylish events packed in a one-week period? Of course, this spring it’s more like MNfashion Month, with fashion shows and events happening throughout the month of April. There’s so much going on, we can understand if you feel overwhelmed - so to help you out, we’re highlighting the must-be-at events, as well as offering a comprehensive listing of the rest. (Click HERE for last week's roundup.)
MONDAY, APRIL 19-FRIDAY, APRIL 23:
Haircut Happy Hour at Miyagi
What: We can’t rave enough about East Hennepin salon Miyagi. Owned by the super-awesome husband-wife team of Mo Murphy and Chris Strouth, the Aveda-exclusive salon is always a must on our list come MNfashion Week for all our prettifying needs. This week, they give back via its Haircut Happy Hour all week. All haircuts will be only $20, and all proceeds will be donated back to MNfashion. While you’re in the neighborhood, double your happy hour and swing by Pizza Nea for half-off tap beers with food purchase (2-6 p.m. daily) or Red Stag Supperclub for $3 house wines and taps, $4 select taps, $4 cocktails and app specials (3-6 p.m. daily). Cash/check preferred; call to make an appointment.
When: 4-6 p.m. Monday, April 19-Friday, April 23.
Where: Miyagi, 411 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis. 612-331-1912. www.dojoforbeauty.com
TUESDAY, APRIL 20:
"To the Ends of the Universe": Laura Fulk Runway Show
What: After her much-talked-about debut solo show, "Suffocate," during last spring's MNfashion Week, local designer Laura Fulk is sure to astound and delight once again with her fall 2010 collection, "To the Ends of the Universe." The ambitiously expansive collection that 32 looks and 50-plus pieces, digitally-printed with custom designs by local painters Melissa Breitenfeldt and Laura Weber. Everything from separates and dresses to outerwear and accessories will walk the runway, and from what we've seen, the collection looks to be the avant-garde designer's most wearable to date. Either way, Fulk is sure to blow us away yet again with her fierce, bold and unique designs. The show is free but seating is extremely limited and requires RSVP to www.laurafulk.com. (Pictured: A Laura Fulk F/W 2010 look.)
When: 7:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show.
Where: McNamara Alumni Center on the U of M campus, 200 Oak St SE., Mpls. www.laurafulk.com
Inside the Designer's Notebook
What: Fashion Group International’s local chapter and chic boutique Belle Reve give local fashion fans the chance to hear straight from the mouth of three of our favorite Voltage: Fashion Amplified designers - Emma Berg, George Moskal and Pafoua Thao of PFT Couture. The designers will talk about their creative process and spring 2010 designs, as well as show off pieces from their current collections in a discussion moderated by l’etoile Fashion Editor (and Lead Stylist of Voltage), Jahna Peloquin. Tickets are $10 to $40 and available at the door; RSVP preferred. (Pictured: A Voltage 2010 look by Emma Berg; photo by Stephanie Colgan.)
When: 7-9:30 p.m. (7:30 p.m. presentations, 8:30 p.m. cocktail reception.) Tuesday, April 20.
Where: Belle Reve, 320 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis. 612-333-3148. www.bellereveboutique.com or www.fgi.org
"Scenes from Alice in Wonderland"
What: Urban Rainment is presenting scenes from a fantasyland version of “Alice in Wonderland” as participants rap the famous jabberwocky words of Lewis Carroll, dance, sing, and stroll through the dining clients in this exciting and imaginative show, which will be presented in its entirety in May. Dance, fashion, and music make this presentation a delight to the eyes. For dinner and show reservations, call 612.338.1877. Sponsored by The Dancing Ganesha, BothDol Fashions, Urban Rainment, and Urban Spectrum Theatre. Free with dinner or appetizers; 18-plus. (Pictured: A look by BothDol Fashion.)
When: 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 20.
Where: The Dancing Ganesha, 1100 Harmon Pl., Minneapolis. 612-338-1877. www.dancingganesharestaurant.com
Sewing Machine Operations 101
What: Maybe you aspire to be a fashion designer but have no clue on how to run a sewing machine, or perhaps you just want a few tips on how to do your own quick alterations yourself. Either way, MNfashion’s Sewing Machine Operations 101 workshop will give you the tricks of the trade. Simply bring in any working sewing machine, and the knowledgeable MNfashion staff will teach you how to use it. The class is $31.74 for MNfashion members and $36.86 for non-members.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 20.
Where: MNfashion Studio, Grainbelt Building, 79 13th Ave. NE., #212, Minneapolis. www.mnfashion.org
TUESDAY, APRIL 20-THURSDAY, APRIL 22:
"The Office on Film"
What: Presented in conjuction with the Goldstein’s current exhibition, “How Secretaries Changed the 20th Century Office: Design, Image, and Culture," this film series highlights secretaries’ role in the working world over the years. Tuesday evening, the series kicks off with Skyscraper Souls, set during the market crash in the 1930s as romantic and financial entanglements provide the backdrop to costumes that range from day to evening. On Wednesday, Joan Crawford stars as a tough lady-boss in 1950s-era The Best of Everything. The series finishes off with over-the-top big-hair ‘80s classic Nine to Five - that’s right, the one starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Free. (Pictured: Joan Crawford in The Best of Everything.)
When: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 20-Thursday, April 22.
Where: Goldstein Museum of Design, 32 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Ave., St. Paul. 612-624-7434. www.goldstein.design.umn.edu
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21:
"Clothes Off Our Backs"
What: Blacklist Vintage shows off its spring offerings on live models as it celebrates the grand opening of its new location just in time for MNfashion Week. Vintage aficionados (and fashion plates) Jennifer Sapiro and Vanessa Messersmith host the event, which will feature tasty refreshments from Salty Tart, music from DJs Double Trouble, and a unique fashion presentation featuring living mannequins on pedestals wearing off-the-rack fashions from Blacklist Vintage. If that wasn’t enough, customers can literally buy the clothes "off the backs" of the models and even have their purchases altered on-site by Sew Simple to ensure a perfect fit.
When: 7-10 p.m. (Show at 9 p.m.) Wednesday, April 21.
Where: Blacklist Vintage, 25 E. 26th St., Minneapolis. 612-872-8552. www.blacklistvintage.com
THURSDAY, APRIL 22:
Shop Local at Picky Girl
What: St. Paul boutique Picky Girl showcases its collection of local designer wares at its MNfashion Week event - including our favorite local design duo, Calpurnia Peach. The whimsical clothing line for the girly-girl with good taste and a heart for story-telling features original hand-drawn screenprints in a bright sherbert color palette. Other local lines featured include handbags by Nelle, Post-, and Rapport, and accessories Julian Capelle and Perfect Pumps, with complimentary drinks and apps from D’Amico. The event also doubles as the launch of the "Picky Perks" card: With a $100 purchase of regular-priced merchandise, you’ll receive a Picky Perks card good toward future purchases. Simply present the card with each visit and receive 10 percent off all regular-priced merchandise (good through one year), and 25 percent off any purchase during your birthday week. (Pictured: A Spring 2010 look by Calpurnia Peach; photo by Lauren Gantner.)
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107. www.pickygirlmn.com
Voltage Designer Trunk Shows at Via's
What: Via’s Vintage is celebrating MNfashion Week by holding a rare, one-day-only sale of 10 percent off on their esteemed collections of vintage clothing and accessories. Via’s is also the only place in town where you can find the Spring 2010 menswear collection by Raul Osorio - one of our favorite fresh faces to hit the local fashion scene in a long time. Better yet, many pieces from his line that debuted last weekend at Voltage can be worn by men and women alike. Vintage City Classics, jewelry designer for Frances Zerr at Voltage, will also be featuring their complete spring collection as well as their custom voltage pieces. (Pictured: A Voltage 2010 look by Raul Osorio; photo by Stephanie Colgan.)
When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: Via’s Vintage, 2408 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis. 612-374-3649. www.viasvintage.com
StevenBe's Spring Fling
What: This “yarn garage workshop” by local knitwear designer StevenBe showcases the latest in knitwear and artwear trends. Steven and special guest Nina DiAngelo host the evening, which benefits the Chicago Avenue Art Street. There will be Wine, hors d’oeuvres and demonstrations throughout the evening. Tickets are $24 at the door.
When: Noon-9 p.m. retail store open. 6-9 p.m. show. Thursday, April 22.
Where: Yarn Garage, 3448 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis. www.stevenbe.com
Carrie Cordelia Handbags Trunk Show
What: Check out the new handbag line by Carrie Cordelia at this launch party and trunk show at W7 Collective. The line incorporates a creative application of high-tech fabrics and traditional materials, with designs incorporating feminine silhouettes and a gender-neutral aesthetic that should appeal to women and men alike. While you’re there, enjoy music, hors d’oeuvres and wine, and if you RSVP to the show, you’ll receive a discount card for 20 percent off at the event.
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: W7 Collective, Pilney Building, 1032 7th St. W., St. Paul. www.w7collective.com
Teresa Goodall Spring Trunk Show
What: See exciting, colorful statement necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, including limited edition artwear pieces. Teresa will be on hand to discuss her designs. Limited edition statement pieces will be brought in for this event.
When: 4-7 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: Fawbush’s, 3420 Galleria, Edina. 952-922-5717. www.teresagoodall.net
Stupid Dance Party
What: This launch party for Point. Clothing, a new local line that features work-friendly designs in average sizes, will feature DJ Father Time playing funk, freestyle, R&B, ‘70s rock, punk, and ‘80s and ‘90s alt rock. Free, 21-plus.
When: 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: 501 Club, 501 Washington Ave. S., Minneapolis. www.pointclothing.com
FRIDAY, APRIL 23:
Imagination Mechanism
What: l'etoile magazine offers a real-time peek into our creative process in this social mixer. The event will offer guests the chance to watch the complete process of what goes into an editorial photo shoot, including styling, shooting, retouching and editorial layout. After watching styling in the Eitel Building's expansive Rooftop Sky Park, head down into one of the building's gorgeous penthouse suites to witness the photo shoot live. The event will also offer the chance to design fashion shoot mood boards and storyboards, plus cocktails, DJs and prizes for "best photo ready"!
When: 7-10:30 p.m. Friday, April 23.
Where: Eitel Building Rooftop Sky Park, 1367 Willow St., Minneapolis. letoilemagazine.blogspot.com
Allilamodie + Flow Glass Jewelry Trunk Shows
What: Allilamodie Original Clothes combines unique fabrics, hand knitting, and vintage buttons to craft one-of-a-kind garments meant to stand out in a crowd. The new local line celebrates its debut during MNfashion Week with Larry Retzlaff Photography and Flow Glass Jewelry. The free event will feature trunk shows from Allilamodie and Flow Glass and a fashion show with live models, plus door prizes, snacks and drinks. (Pictured: A look by Allilamodie.)
When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, April 23.
Where: Microbrew Artist Co-op, 1300 Quincy St. NE., Minneapolis.
FRIDAY, APRIL 23 & SATURDAY, APRIL 24:
"Catwalk Cabaret Fashion Ball"
What: This fashion ball and Ballet of the Dolls benefit is an evening full of high-end fashion, produced and styled by Grant Whittaker and Myron Johnson (the creative team behind not only Ballet of the Dolls but also Glamorama). Guests will experience a full, avant-garde cabaret with four luxury runway shows and a pop-up boutique, with fashions supplied by Grethen House, John Novachis, Specs Optical and Ann Lambrecht Jewelry. Tickets are $30 and available at The Ritz box office or online at www.ritzdolls.com (and include a complimentary Prairie Vodka cocktail).
When: 7:30-11 p.m. (8 p.m. show.) Friday, April 23 & Saturday, April 24.
Where: Ritz Theater, 345 13th Ave. NE., Minneapolis. 612-436-1129. www.ritzdolls.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 24:
Alter/Nation
What: Local upcycling line CounterCouture is hosting an MNfashion Week event that is one part clothing swap, one part DIY workshop, and one part eco-fashion show. Donations will be accepting beginning April 22 from 4-7 p.m. at the MNfashion Studio (Grain Belt Bottling House, Studio #212) or during the event. Then the day of the event, you can pick out new items, and even have local designers customize the look or have Anthem Heart screen-print on it for only $5. The fashion show will include new looks from CounterCouture, Je Ne Regrette Rien, and Marissa Bridges, styled by I've Got Your Style. Entry is $5 with proceeds going toward MNfashion.
When: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, April 24.
Where: MNfashion Studio, Grainbelt Building, 79 13th Ave. NE., Minneapolis. www.countercouture.com
A Man's Show
What: Guys don't ever seem to get as much attention as the ladies in the fashion scene. Fellas, feel neglected no more. This runway show will feature sartorial options from VState, Elsworth, Details Style Lab, and eyewear from the Spectacle Shoppe. Live music from the School of Rock’s student band Road Crew will provide a rockin’ accompaniment to the runway show, which includes an all-underwear segment. You can buy a retail discount ($10 for 10 percent up to $30 for 30 percent) for any of the retailers involved for a $5 donation, with proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Twin Cities. Free, but be sure to RSVP at event@detailsmn.com.
When: 8-10 p.m. Saturday, April 24. (Pictured: A spring look from Elsworth; photo by Chris McDuffie.)
Where: Lowry Theater, 16 W. 5th St., St. Paul. Details Style Lab: 651-251-8700. www.detailsmn.com
Tweed Ride: April Showers Edition
What: The second edition of this fashion bike ride around the lakes of Minneapolis centers around that beloved, classic fabric - tweed. The classic cycling garb of bespoke Brits, the event celebrates cycling in dapper style. The route includes the most picturesque parts of Minneapolis, kicking off at the gorgeous Minneahaha Falls with photo ops and a spot of tea. There’ll be Dapperest Gent and Most Fetching Lady contests and - of course - scheduled pub stops. (21-plus.)
When: 3 p.m. meet-up, 4 p.m. embarkment. Saturday, April 24.
Where: Minnehaha Falls, 4801 Minnehaha Park Dr. S., Minneapolis. www.tweedride.wordpress.com
Spring Into Watercolors with PFT Couture
What: Belle Reve hosts this spring trunk show by Voltage 2010 designer Pafaou Thao of PFT Couture. The “Watercolors” line you saw on the runway will be available in its entirety; guests have the chance to try on samples and place orders. Light refreshments will be served.
When: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, April 24.
Where: Belle Reve, 320 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis. 612-333-3148. www.bellereveboutique.com
SUNDAY, APRIL 25:
Christopher Straub Premier Collection
What: Former Project Runway contestant Christopher Straub has kept himself very busy since appearing on the sixth season (and coming in fourth) of the reality show. He opened an e-shop, announced an accessories line for ShopNBC, created a dress out of packaging from the Project Runway Wii game, and will be participating in Voltage as a handbag designer for PFT Couture and Emma Berg's lines. This spring, he's showcasing his very first full men's and women's clothing collections (accompanied by accessories, of course). Tickets are $15 to $50 and available online at www.vitalculture.com. (Pictured: A sketch from Christopher Straub's Spring 2010 collection.)
When: 4-8 p.m. (5:30 p.m. show.) Sunday, April 25.
Where: Saint Paul Hotel, 350 Market St., St. Paul. www.christopherstraub.com
MONDAY, APRIL 19-FRIDAY, APRIL 23:
Haircut Happy Hour at MiyagiWhat: We can’t rave enough about East Hennepin salon Miyagi. Owned by the super-awesome husband-wife team of Mo Murphy and Chris Strouth, the Aveda-exclusive salon is always a must on our list come MNfashion Week for all our prettifying needs. This week, they give back via its Haircut Happy Hour all week. All haircuts will be only $20, and all proceeds will be donated back to MNfashion. While you’re in the neighborhood, double your happy hour and swing by Pizza Nea for half-off tap beers with food purchase (2-6 p.m. daily) or Red Stag Supperclub for $3 house wines and taps, $4 select taps, $4 cocktails and app specials (3-6 p.m. daily). Cash/check preferred; call to make an appointment.
When: 4-6 p.m. Monday, April 19-Friday, April 23.
Where: Miyagi, 411 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis. 612-331-1912. www.dojoforbeauty.com
TUESDAY, APRIL 20:
"To the Ends of the Universe": Laura Fulk Runway ShowWhat: After her much-talked-about debut solo show, "Suffocate," during last spring's MNfashion Week, local designer Laura Fulk is sure to astound and delight once again with her fall 2010 collection, "To the Ends of the Universe." The ambitiously expansive collection that 32 looks and 50-plus pieces, digitally-printed with custom designs by local painters Melissa Breitenfeldt and Laura Weber. Everything from separates and dresses to outerwear and accessories will walk the runway, and from what we've seen, the collection looks to be the avant-garde designer's most wearable to date. Either way, Fulk is sure to blow us away yet again with her fierce, bold and unique designs. The show is free but seating is extremely limited and requires RSVP to www.laurafulk.com. (Pictured: A Laura Fulk F/W 2010 look.)
When: 7:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show.
Where: McNamara Alumni Center on the U of M campus, 200 Oak St SE., Mpls. www.laurafulk.com
Inside the Designer's NotebookWhat: Fashion Group International’s local chapter and chic boutique Belle Reve give local fashion fans the chance to hear straight from the mouth of three of our favorite Voltage: Fashion Amplified designers - Emma Berg, George Moskal and Pafoua Thao of PFT Couture. The designers will talk about their creative process and spring 2010 designs, as well as show off pieces from their current collections in a discussion moderated by l’etoile Fashion Editor (and Lead Stylist of Voltage), Jahna Peloquin. Tickets are $10 to $40 and available at the door; RSVP preferred. (Pictured: A Voltage 2010 look by Emma Berg; photo by Stephanie Colgan.)
When: 7-9:30 p.m. (7:30 p.m. presentations, 8:30 p.m. cocktail reception.) Tuesday, April 20.
Where: Belle Reve, 320 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis. 612-333-3148. www.bellereveboutique.com or www.fgi.org
"Scenes from Alice in Wonderland"What: Urban Rainment is presenting scenes from a fantasyland version of “Alice in Wonderland” as participants rap the famous jabberwocky words of Lewis Carroll, dance, sing, and stroll through the dining clients in this exciting and imaginative show, which will be presented in its entirety in May. Dance, fashion, and music make this presentation a delight to the eyes. For dinner and show reservations, call 612.338.1877. Sponsored by The Dancing Ganesha, BothDol Fashions, Urban Rainment, and Urban Spectrum Theatre. Free with dinner or appetizers; 18-plus. (Pictured: A look by BothDol Fashion.)
When: 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 20.
Where: The Dancing Ganesha, 1100 Harmon Pl., Minneapolis. 612-338-1877. www.dancingganesharestaurant.com
Sewing Machine Operations 101
What: Maybe you aspire to be a fashion designer but have no clue on how to run a sewing machine, or perhaps you just want a few tips on how to do your own quick alterations yourself. Either way, MNfashion’s Sewing Machine Operations 101 workshop will give you the tricks of the trade. Simply bring in any working sewing machine, and the knowledgeable MNfashion staff will teach you how to use it. The class is $31.74 for MNfashion members and $36.86 for non-members.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 20.
Where: MNfashion Studio, Grainbelt Building, 79 13th Ave. NE., #212, Minneapolis. www.mnfashion.org
TUESDAY, APRIL 20-THURSDAY, APRIL 22:
"The Office on Film"What: Presented in conjuction with the Goldstein’s current exhibition, “How Secretaries Changed the 20th Century Office: Design, Image, and Culture," this film series highlights secretaries’ role in the working world over the years. Tuesday evening, the series kicks off with Skyscraper Souls, set during the market crash in the 1930s as romantic and financial entanglements provide the backdrop to costumes that range from day to evening. On Wednesday, Joan Crawford stars as a tough lady-boss in 1950s-era The Best of Everything. The series finishes off with over-the-top big-hair ‘80s classic Nine to Five - that’s right, the one starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Free. (Pictured: Joan Crawford in The Best of Everything.)
When: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 20-Thursday, April 22.
Where: Goldstein Museum of Design, 32 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Ave., St. Paul. 612-624-7434. www.goldstein.design.umn.edu
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21:
"Clothes Off Our Backs"What: Blacklist Vintage shows off its spring offerings on live models as it celebrates the grand opening of its new location just in time for MNfashion Week. Vintage aficionados (and fashion plates) Jennifer Sapiro and Vanessa Messersmith host the event, which will feature tasty refreshments from Salty Tart, music from DJs Double Trouble, and a unique fashion presentation featuring living mannequins on pedestals wearing off-the-rack fashions from Blacklist Vintage. If that wasn’t enough, customers can literally buy the clothes "off the backs" of the models and even have their purchases altered on-site by Sew Simple to ensure a perfect fit.
When: 7-10 p.m. (Show at 9 p.m.) Wednesday, April 21.
Where: Blacklist Vintage, 25 E. 26th St., Minneapolis. 612-872-8552. www.blacklistvintage.com
THURSDAY, APRIL 22:
Shop Local at Picky GirlWhat: St. Paul boutique Picky Girl showcases its collection of local designer wares at its MNfashion Week event - including our favorite local design duo, Calpurnia Peach. The whimsical clothing line for the girly-girl with good taste and a heart for story-telling features original hand-drawn screenprints in a bright sherbert color palette. Other local lines featured include handbags by Nelle, Post-, and Rapport, and accessories Julian Capelle and Perfect Pumps, with complimentary drinks and apps from D’Amico. The event also doubles as the launch of the "Picky Perks" card: With a $100 purchase of regular-priced merchandise, you’ll receive a Picky Perks card good toward future purchases. Simply present the card with each visit and receive 10 percent off all regular-priced merchandise (good through one year), and 25 percent off any purchase during your birthday week. (Pictured: A Spring 2010 look by Calpurnia Peach; photo by Lauren Gantner.)
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107. www.pickygirlmn.com
Voltage Designer Trunk Shows at Via'sWhat: Via’s Vintage is celebrating MNfashion Week by holding a rare, one-day-only sale of 10 percent off on their esteemed collections of vintage clothing and accessories. Via’s is also the only place in town where you can find the Spring 2010 menswear collection by Raul Osorio - one of our favorite fresh faces to hit the local fashion scene in a long time. Better yet, many pieces from his line that debuted last weekend at Voltage can be worn by men and women alike. Vintage City Classics, jewelry designer for Frances Zerr at Voltage, will also be featuring their complete spring collection as well as their custom voltage pieces. (Pictured: A Voltage 2010 look by Raul Osorio; photo by Stephanie Colgan.)
When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: Via’s Vintage, 2408 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis. 612-374-3649. www.viasvintage.com
StevenBe's Spring Fling
What: This “yarn garage workshop” by local knitwear designer StevenBe showcases the latest in knitwear and artwear trends. Steven and special guest Nina DiAngelo host the evening, which benefits the Chicago Avenue Art Street. There will be Wine, hors d’oeuvres and demonstrations throughout the evening. Tickets are $24 at the door.
When: Noon-9 p.m. retail store open. 6-9 p.m. show. Thursday, April 22.
Where: Yarn Garage, 3448 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis. www.stevenbe.com
Carrie Cordelia Handbags Trunk ShowWhat: Check out the new handbag line by Carrie Cordelia at this launch party and trunk show at W7 Collective. The line incorporates a creative application of high-tech fabrics and traditional materials, with designs incorporating feminine silhouettes and a gender-neutral aesthetic that should appeal to women and men alike. While you’re there, enjoy music, hors d’oeuvres and wine, and if you RSVP to the show, you’ll receive a discount card for 20 percent off at the event.
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: W7 Collective, Pilney Building, 1032 7th St. W., St. Paul. www.w7collective.com
Teresa Goodall Spring Trunk Show
What: See exciting, colorful statement necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, including limited edition artwear pieces. Teresa will be on hand to discuss her designs. Limited edition statement pieces will be brought in for this event.
When: 4-7 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: Fawbush’s, 3420 Galleria, Edina. 952-922-5717. www.teresagoodall.net
Stupid Dance Party
What: This launch party for Point. Clothing, a new local line that features work-friendly designs in average sizes, will feature DJ Father Time playing funk, freestyle, R&B, ‘70s rock, punk, and ‘80s and ‘90s alt rock. Free, 21-plus.
When: 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: 501 Club, 501 Washington Ave. S., Minneapolis. www.pointclothing.com
FRIDAY, APRIL 23:
Imagination Mechanism
What: l'etoile magazine offers a real-time peek into our creative process in this social mixer. The event will offer guests the chance to watch the complete process of what goes into an editorial photo shoot, including styling, shooting, retouching and editorial layout. After watching styling in the Eitel Building's expansive Rooftop Sky Park, head down into one of the building's gorgeous penthouse suites to witness the photo shoot live. The event will also offer the chance to design fashion shoot mood boards and storyboards, plus cocktails, DJs and prizes for "best photo ready"!
When: 7-10:30 p.m. Friday, April 23.
Where: Eitel Building Rooftop Sky Park, 1367 Willow St., Minneapolis. letoilemagazine.blogspot.com
Allilamodie + Flow Glass Jewelry Trunk ShowsWhat: Allilamodie Original Clothes combines unique fabrics, hand knitting, and vintage buttons to craft one-of-a-kind garments meant to stand out in a crowd. The new local line celebrates its debut during MNfashion Week with Larry Retzlaff Photography and Flow Glass Jewelry. The free event will feature trunk shows from Allilamodie and Flow Glass and a fashion show with live models, plus door prizes, snacks and drinks. (Pictured: A look by Allilamodie.)
When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, April 23.
Where: Microbrew Artist Co-op, 1300 Quincy St. NE., Minneapolis.
FRIDAY, APRIL 23 & SATURDAY, APRIL 24:
"Catwalk Cabaret Fashion Ball"What: This fashion ball and Ballet of the Dolls benefit is an evening full of high-end fashion, produced and styled by Grant Whittaker and Myron Johnson (the creative team behind not only Ballet of the Dolls but also Glamorama). Guests will experience a full, avant-garde cabaret with four luxury runway shows and a pop-up boutique, with fashions supplied by Grethen House, John Novachis, Specs Optical and Ann Lambrecht Jewelry. Tickets are $30 and available at The Ritz box office or online at www.ritzdolls.com (and include a complimentary Prairie Vodka cocktail).
When: 7:30-11 p.m. (8 p.m. show.) Friday, April 23 & Saturday, April 24.
Where: Ritz Theater, 345 13th Ave. NE., Minneapolis. 612-436-1129. www.ritzdolls.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 24:
Alter/NationWhat: Local upcycling line CounterCouture is hosting an MNfashion Week event that is one part clothing swap, one part DIY workshop, and one part eco-fashion show. Donations will be accepting beginning April 22 from 4-7 p.m. at the MNfashion Studio (Grain Belt Bottling House, Studio #212) or during the event. Then the day of the event, you can pick out new items, and even have local designers customize the look or have Anthem Heart screen-print on it for only $5. The fashion show will include new looks from CounterCouture, Je Ne Regrette Rien, and Marissa Bridges, styled by I've Got Your Style. Entry is $5 with proceeds going toward MNfashion.
When: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, April 24.
Where: MNfashion Studio, Grainbelt Building, 79 13th Ave. NE., Minneapolis. www.countercouture.com
A Man's ShowWhat: Guys don't ever seem to get as much attention as the ladies in the fashion scene. Fellas, feel neglected no more. This runway show will feature sartorial options from VState, Elsworth, Details Style Lab, and eyewear from the Spectacle Shoppe. Live music from the School of Rock’s student band Road Crew will provide a rockin’ accompaniment to the runway show, which includes an all-underwear segment. You can buy a retail discount ($10 for 10 percent up to $30 for 30 percent) for any of the retailers involved for a $5 donation, with proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Twin Cities. Free, but be sure to RSVP at event@detailsmn.com.
When: 8-10 p.m. Saturday, April 24. (Pictured: A spring look from Elsworth; photo by Chris McDuffie.)
Where: Lowry Theater, 16 W. 5th St., St. Paul. Details Style Lab: 651-251-8700. www.detailsmn.com
Tweed Ride: April Showers EditionWhat: The second edition of this fashion bike ride around the lakes of Minneapolis centers around that beloved, classic fabric - tweed. The classic cycling garb of bespoke Brits, the event celebrates cycling in dapper style. The route includes the most picturesque parts of Minneapolis, kicking off at the gorgeous Minneahaha Falls with photo ops and a spot of tea. There’ll be Dapperest Gent and Most Fetching Lady contests and - of course - scheduled pub stops. (21-plus.)
When: 3 p.m. meet-up, 4 p.m. embarkment. Saturday, April 24.
Where: Minnehaha Falls, 4801 Minnehaha Park Dr. S., Minneapolis. www.tweedride.wordpress.com
Spring Into Watercolors with PFT CoutureWhat: Belle Reve hosts this spring trunk show by Voltage 2010 designer Pafaou Thao of PFT Couture. The “Watercolors” line you saw on the runway will be available in its entirety; guests have the chance to try on samples and place orders. Light refreshments will be served.
When: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, April 24.
Where: Belle Reve, 320 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis. 612-333-3148. www.bellereveboutique.com
SUNDAY, APRIL 25:
Christopher Straub Premier Collection
What: Former Project Runway contestant Christopher Straub has kept himself very busy since appearing on the sixth season (and coming in fourth) of the reality show. He opened an e-shop, announced an accessories line for ShopNBC, created a dress out of packaging from the Project Runway Wii game, and will be participating in Voltage as a handbag designer for PFT Couture and Emma Berg's lines. This spring, he's showcasing his very first full men's and women's clothing collections (accompanied by accessories, of course). Tickets are $15 to $50 and available online at www.vitalculture.com. (Pictured: A sketch from Christopher Straub's Spring 2010 collection.)
When: 4-8 p.m. (5:30 p.m. show.) Sunday, April 25.
Where: Saint Paul Hotel, 350 Market St., St. Paul. www.christopherstraub.com
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