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