Monday, February 20, 2012
Events Fashion Review: Night in the Garden
Posted by Lauren Blake on Mon, Feb 20, 2012 at 5:00 PM
This past Saturday, Feb. 18, the Van Landingham transformed from historical home to haven for guests who came out to enjoy a Night in the Garden Room. The intimate estate harbored a Midsummer Night’s Dream-esque ambiance, but instead of magic, wonder and mischief, the benefit was filled with fashion, beauty and fundraising.
Guests mingled amongst beautiful architecture, enjoying heavenly hors d'oeuvres, a full bar, sounds of smooth jazz and silent auction offering art, dance classes wine tasting parties and more. The perfect crisp and cool weather beckoned some to the wrap around porches and rocking chairs to enjoy a conversation overlooking the gardens.
A benefit for the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society, the event fostered not only joy and laughter but also some very touching moments. Host Dr. Susan Flowers gave a brief speech about blood cancer, the deadliest disease among children in the U.S. before handing over the microphone to a young woman whose life was devastated by the disease. Allison Gresham Estabrook, Stella & Dot Independent Stylist who supplied the jewelry for the evening, tearfully spoke about her journey as a 30-year-old single mother with breast cancer whose best friend and soul mate Richard was diagnosed with cancer around the same time. They both fought the battle together, and today Allison still fights to share Richard’s story, as he is no longer here to do so.
Once tears were wiped, the benefit had some more lighthearted fun : Two rising designers shared their collections in the airy garden room of the estate.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Videos Promo video for Charleston Fashion Week 2012
Posted by Kimberly Lawson on Fri, Feb 17, 2012 at 12:10 PM
It's Fashion Friday! Here you'll fine the promotional video from the organizers of the upcoming Charleston Fashion Week, happening March 20-24. If you weren't considering attending, the flashes of edgy couture in this video might make you rethink that.
2012 Charleston Fashion Week Promotional Video from PDA Video on Vimeo.
For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.charlestonmag.com/fashionweek/main.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Events Shopping dresses for Charlotte's 11th Annual Bartender's Ball
Posted by Allison Campbell on Thu, Feb 16, 2012 at 3:31 PM
When your editor tells you to go shopping for a blog post, you do as you're told. And I did — quite happily, might I add.
Yesterday, I spent a few hours hitting up some locally owned boutiques in search of the perfect semi-formal dress for Bartender's Ball, happening this Sunday at the Blake Hotel. Since I couldn’t just pick one, I picked my three favorites.
First stop was Metropolitan’s newly opened Lipp Boutique. As soon as I mentioned Bartender’s Ball, store manager Leah Britt led me to the perfect little black dress with a sexy twist.
The BCBGeneration one-shoulder piece is made from a stretchy seersucker fabric. I nicknamed it the mullet dress because it reveals a sexy shoulder on the left, and an elegant sleeve on the right. Priced at $88, Britt and I both agree that the dress gives you more bang for your buck. “It’s an affordable choice for Bartender’s Ball, and you can re-wear it with tights and boots later,” she says.
News Lilly Pulitzer opens at South Park
Posted by Kimberly Lawson on Thu, Feb 16, 2012 at 12:46 PM
- www.facebook.com/lillypulitzersouthpark
Lilly's coming to town, and she's intent on painting Charlotte pink and green.
Tomorrow morning at 10 a.m., the doors open to the Lilly Pulitzer store at South Park Mall. The first person in line will get the privilege of cutting the (pink, of course) ribbon.
According to Charlotte Smarty Pants, "Each dressing room has a hand-painted theme, centered around Charlotte. The Queen City toile is definitely one to admire as it features landmarks all over Charlotte but with a Lilly twist."
To get a sneak peek of the store, read the rest of the blog post by Charlotte Smarty Pants.
And heads up: The Lilly Pulitzer store's grand opening celebration is happening Feb. 25 and 26, complete with live paintings, mystery giveaways and more.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Events Photos: Runway for the Ballet
Posted by T. Strong on Wed, Feb 15, 2012 at 12:06 PM
Fashion shows are one of those things that when combined with any other element be it art, music or dance, it can be amazing when done right. As last year's emcee of Runway for the Ballet, I know just how much work goes into the production and this year was no different.
- www.inhisimagebyjulie.com
Backstage was all a buzz with excitement as the models prepared for the show. The clothing, shoes and handbags were sponsored by Neiman Marcus at SouthPark Mall and the looks we saw come down the runway were very classic-chic but definitely right on trend.
Everything from beautiful spring florals and sexy red evening gowns to dapper menswear was modeled by some of the most talented dancers at the NC Dance Theatre. Yes ... you heard me right! On this special occasion, a few of the dancers graced the stage as models and were of course, as graceful as a dove. The dance performances in between each runway segment were each as awe-inspiring as the last.
Aside from the beautiful choreography, the snippets of original pieces we saw were also a testament to dancers' physical agility. It was truly an amazing sight to see and "totally awesome," as my daughter the mini mayvin and my date for the evening, said so eloquently.
If you missed it this year, definitely be sure to add it to next year's calendar under "must-attend" events. It's a great way to celebrate dance and fashion but most of all to have a fantastic time supporting the arts.
T. Strong is a TV personality, personal stylist and fashion journalist who contributes commentary on Creative Loafing’s Klepto blog in addition to writing for several other national media organizations. To learn more visit www.StyleMayvin.com or follow “therealtstrong” on Twitter.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Sales Coats on sale at Hong Kong Vintage
Posted by Kimberly Lawson on Mon, Feb 13, 2012 at 10:33 AM
I know, I know — when did Old Man Winter think it was appropriate to show up this late in the season? Sheesh. Spring clothes are starting to show up in the shops, and the low this morning was 19 degrees. What the heck?
At least Hong Kong Vintage's winter coat sale is on time. Starting today, take 25 percent off.
- http://stylesamplemag.com
- I don't know of either of these vintage pieces are at HK, but hey, a girl can dream!
1514 Central Ave.
704-334-0538
Friday, February 3, 2012
Sales Super Bowl shopping?
Posted by T. Strong on Fri, Feb 3, 2012 at 10:36 AM
- dreamstime.com
There are some women who can roll with the best of them on Super Bowl Sunday and be the supportive, attentive, football loving wife or girlfriend. But if you're not that type and you don't want to pretend to be her this year, it's OK! No really, it is. Why not do something you would much rather enjoy, like ... oh, I don't know ... shop? If you want to spend your day amongst fabulous clothing, shoes and jewelry and enjoy the Q.C.'s biggest Super Bowl Sales, here's where you need to be.
Monarch will be open from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. and is having a massive sale on all of their cold weather merchandise. This women's upscale consignment store is offering 75 percent off of all Fall and Winter items.
Just a few feet away, Cottage Chic puts a new spin on playing your cards right. The discounts here are all based on luck because you'll have to choose a card from the "Super bowl" for a chance to get up to 40 percent off of your purchase of any "in stock" items. I love this idea because it adds an element of surprise and hey, at the very least you could end up with a 10 percent off card. A savings is a savings, is what I like to say. Cottage Chic will be open from 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Across the street at Petal, also from 1 p.m.-5 p.m., the party heats up because the first 20 customers will receive a free Petal gift bag. While you peruse their selection, you can grab a quick bite and a drink knowing it will all pay off in the end. You'll get 20 percent off your entire purchase and 30 percent off all sale merchandise.
If you're looking for a big sale with a discount on absolutely EVERYTHING, Sloan is the place to be. From 1 p.m.-5 p.m., all merchandise is 25 percent off! Yes, this includes sale items as well as jewelry. As a matter of fact, you will get an additional 25 percent off of the already reduced prices of the fall/winter collection.
And not too far away, in Phillips Place ... Via Veneto is offering light fare, wine and cheese, for the determined shopper. Stop by this boutique for 20 percent off regular priced items and 50 percent off sale. Open from 12 p.m.-4 p.m., this location is yet another stop in your four hour window of what I like to call "extreme shopping."
Keep in mind that all of these shopping events are for one day only and just for a few hours, so use your time wisely and like any other challenge, bring your A game and play to win!
To read up on more Super Bowl Sunday sales, check out this post on ScoopCharlotte.
T. Strong is a TV personality, personal stylist and fashion journalist who contributes commentary on Creative Loafing’s Klepto blog in addition to writing for several other national media organizations. To learn more visit www.StyleMayvin.com or follow “therealtstrong” on Twitter.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
News Backstage opens for the vintage-inspired
Posted by Allison Campbell on Wed, Feb 1, 2012 at 10:45 AM
Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting a violinist in the Charlotte Symphony who has a knack for vintage fashion. Judith Beverly Craycraft is the owner of a new store called Backstage. It takes over the old Hong Kong Vintage space down on Central Avenue.
“The whole theme of Backstage is a tribute to the performing arts through vintage clothing, costumes, antiques and collectibles,” Craycraft proudly says. Opening on Jan. 1, Craycraft says she moved the store Asheville because it was bought out by developers. "This [place] has been a vintage location before," Craycraft says, "so, it made sense for us to move in here."
Upon entering the store, I'm reminded of the scenes and costumes in Fred Astaire's movie Top Hat. It helps that soft jazz music whispers in the background. It's apparent one can live out his or her Broadway or burlesque fantasies by shopping here.
What initially caught my eye was the jewelry. A stunning red coral necklace glistening like candy drew me to the center of the store. Craycraft says most of the bohemian and rhinestone jewelry is imported, but she designs red coral, turquoise, and quartz crystal pieces.
The racks overflow with Sergeant Pepper-inspired tailcoats, military jackets, tuxedo shirts with frilly-fronts, and classic smoking jackets. Craycraft says the store is a great outlet for her sewing — she transforms men's jackets into “tricked-out formalwear.” For accessories, she also has military hats, leather tap shoes, and antique shaving cups (a teacup with a mustache rest).
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
News / Sales GreenMarketGirl sale on Fab.com = Me geeked out
Posted by Kimberly Lawson on Tue, Jan 31, 2012 at 1:37 PM
Yes! I finally found a way to use the phrase "geeked out" in the headline of one of my blog posts!
Maybe I'm late to the game on that catchphrase, and maybe I'm also late to the game on discovering Fab.com — but dammit, don't ruin this for me!
GreenMarketGirl, the creators of the cool eco cuff (an earth-friendly wood bracelet, if you're unaware), will have a three-day sale on Fab.com, starting tomorrow. Fab.com features daily designs for inspiration and sales up to 70 percent off. Here's the preview site for the GreenMarketGirl cuff sale.
According to GreenMarketGirl's Facebook, they've recently designed seven new styles (six for women and one for men).
Sign up on Fab.com to be able to access the sale. It's going to be awesome.
Events Lotus hosts ladies night
Posted by T. Strong on Tue, Jan 31, 2012 at 1:12 PM
Spring has definitely sprung! In addition to the strangely warm weather we are having, in January no less, Lotus is inviting all of the fashionable ladies of the Queen City out this Thursday for an evening of shopping bliss. You'll have the opportunity to check out all of the fabulous new spring arrivals while you enjoy music and a nice glass of bubbly. What a great way to u wind after a long day at work! And, don't be selfish, bring along a friend or co-worker to join in the festivities.
If you haven't purchased your look for the 4th Annual Care Ring Casino Night yet, this is the perfect time! Lotus is always giving back to the community with its philanthropic efforts, so they will be graciously donating 10 percent of all sales for the evening to Care Ring Charity. Come out on Thursday, Feb. 2 from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. to support this wonderful cause and have a great time enhancing your spring wardrobe.
T. Strong is a TV personality, personal stylist and fashion journalist who contributes commentary on Creative Loafing’s Klepto blog in addition to writing for several other national media organizations. To learn more visit www.StyleMayvin.com or follow “therealtstrong” on Twitter.
