FashionSOUL is one of those events that includes not only fashion but also a level of entertainment rarely seen in the Queen City. If you were in attendance for this 3rd annual event on Saturday, May 5, benefiting the Humane Society, you know exactly what I mean. If not, make plans to be there next year for sure.
Attendees were treated to a look inside the mind of Joey Hewell, who is the creator of FashionSOUL and, oh, what a whimsical mind he has. Guests experienced live art, which for me was very interesting to watch because I can honestly say, I've never seen artists paint in a suit jacket and tie. All in the name of fashion!
Other entertainment included a hula hoop dancer, live band, an aerial artist, and drag queen extraordinaire Angela Lopez. But the fashion. Oh, the fashion.
House of Abbeydale sent some of the sexiest men in Charlotte down the runway looking ever so dapper. His collection was all about blue in various shades and the men's suiting was tailored to perfection. Ladies, am I right when I say there's nothing like a well dressed man?
V.Vill really went all out and gave us everything from swimwear to vintage looks that could never be mistaken for "everyday wear." No, the lady wearing these looks has a flair of bold edge. I loved the collection because it was the perfect mix of ladylike pieces punched up with dramatic accessories.
Flow by Tara Davis is known for classic dressing, and her designs are always beautifully crafted. She is like the Diane Von Furstenberg of Charlotte. There's not a lady I know who wouldn't want to own one of her dresses. Evident by the way they literally "flowed" down the runway, this designer really knows her stuff when it comes to fabrication.
Designs by Andre Jarrid had a combination of eclectic looks as well as dainty pieces. My favorite? The shoes! They were great show pieces and stole the show. I could definitely see and understand his inspiration, the hummingbird, in each look.
Enemy to Fashion really blew me away with the unexpected. Everything from looks reconstructed from parachutes to an almost breast-bearing top, the husband and wife team certainly have a flair for the dramatic. Not sure if I would hang out at the local Walmart wearing one of their designs; it's definitely more of a down in Soho look any day.
Frock Shop closed the show by taking me back to a place in time where women were stylish, classic and ladylike all rolled into one. Taking a vintage look and making it modern with a few nips and tucks was the perfect ending. I loved the baby doll- like sleeve details and the '60s patterns were to die for. Each look unique in its own right, yet totally suitable to wear today.
Want to see some of the action? Check out this video, courtesy of CL's managing editor Kim Lawson.
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.