Gemini (May 21- June 20)

Styleascope is a lighthearted horoscope that puts a spotlight on local fashion. Believe it or not, Zodiac signs say a lot about a person. They speak to an individual's strengths, weaknesses, romantic attractions, values, desires and ... fashion sense? Yep! The stars can serve as a personal stylist, too. No sign is alike, so your wardrobes shouldn't be either. My aim is to blend fashion and the cosmos by providing a guide to show you what's in store at local boutiques (and why your sign is telling you to wear it). Instead of the runway, I'll use the stars as my guide. So, what's your sign?

Name: Sara Delaney
Birthday: June 16 (Shares the sign with boho chic twins Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen)
Age: 22
Do you read your horoscope?: "I do read my horoscope. I like to have an idea of how the world is going to play out for me that day. Whether it says it's going to be a good or bad day, it's interesting to see what happens."

• Amy Pickard

The Gemini is quite possibly the most intriguing sign out there. Its name is derived from the Latin word for "twins" and is commonly associated with the twins Castor and Pollux, from Greek Mythology. Because of the sign's versatile nature, it's hard to pin a Gemini down on paper. Its duality often labels them as having erratic mood changes or a split personality. But many Geminis are just open to change, which surely translates into a style that varies. As an air sign, Geminian personality is a match to its natural element. Unpredictable as a feather afloat, you can never really be sure what a Gemini will do next, especially when it comes to the execution of an outfit. One thing that's certain is that a Gemini loves to stand out. They're drawn to bold colors like shades of yellow, orange and magenta. Because their ruling parts are the hands, fingers and arms, you'll most likely see a Gemini donning rings and bangles as accessories. The witty, outgoing and adventurous Gemini loves to charm in conversation and style. With a creative edge, the Gemini is a natural born trendsetter who isn't afraid to take risks. Open a Gemini's closet and you'll stumble upon a wardrobe that's as diverse and eclectic as the wearer. (Source)

All pieces found at Vivian B, 3100 N. Davidson St.

Crop top: Double Zero
Studded jacket: Blaque Label
Jeans: 7 For All Mankind
Bracelets: Gold bangles from Ghana exclusive to Vivian B in Charlotte.

Last Thursday evening, the Mint Museum on Randolph Road previewed the opening of two new exhibits that gave viewers a look at both the museum's history and their future. And the Bead Goes On showcases a variety of beaded garments along with cutting edge contemporary runway fashion while Heritage Gallery celebrates the Mint's 75-year history as the state's very first art museum to display photos, artifacts and art in a detailed historical timeline.

And the Bead Goes On includes contemporary runway fashions and designs by Charlotte's own Kevin Vain, a 17-year-old designer. If he's not on your radar, he should be.

In response to such an amazing opportunity to have his designs shown at the Mint Museum, Carter said, "I'm still in shock that at age 17 my work is on exhibit alongside some of the gurus in fashion and pop culture." Other designers include Halston, Bob Mackie, Giorgio Armani, Oscar de la Renta, and Alber Elbaz. for which will all be on view through February 2013.

"This exhibition includes some of the top talents in the fashion world - from America, France, India, Nigeria, and elsewhere," said Charles Mo, the Mint's director of fine arts. "These fashions present unique statements of creativity that speak to the human passion for beauty, adornment and identity."

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.

One of the most exciting days in many women's lives is their wedding day, and having just celebrated my 18th wedding anniversary, I must say that I was feeling quite nostalgic attending Lineage Bridal's event Wednesday night. (For all of you trying to do the math to figure out how I could be married so long and be oh so young ... well, let's just say I've got really good genes!)

Lineage Bridal is a designer bridal boutique that recently opened its doors in Uptown Charlotte; however, the owners are definitely not new to the industry.

Moving the Web-based boutique created in 2009 to an actual brick and mortar location, co-owners Natasha Duff-Cole and Jodene Pooler were all smiles last night. The evening's ambiance was almost as beautiful as a blushing bride on her wedding day, and I attributed that to the alluring venue, Rooftop With A View, and the wonderful decorations provided by AFR Furniture.

If the view, food and cocktails weren't celebratory enough, the owners afforded attendees an opportunity to see some of the fabulous designs they have to offer during the runway show.

The show opened with a number of flowing, beautiful dresses that were Lineage designs, and I personally found it quite difficult to choose a favorite. Closing the show with the final 10 looks was an entire collection by Faith Thornburg. And for all the brides-to-be out there, you definitely need to know her name. Thornburg was awarded the Elle Magazine Fashion NEXT Award last year at New York Fashion Week. Her pieces were simply stunning and for the bride who wants to choose from a range of traditional to glamorous, she's got it. (See the slideshow below.)

• Robert Christopher Photography

In addition to its new location, Lineage also launched a Finder's Service, where brides are able to personally meet with the owners to discuss their "perfect gown," budget and timeframe. Following the initial meeting, the Lineage team will conduct a search to match the bride with the "dress of her dreams," and since the company will continue operating online, brides will have access to the best boutiques all around the country!

Be sure to check them out online at www.LineageBridal.com. The boutique is located at 621 McNinch St.

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.

Slideshow Lineage Bridal 5/16/12

10 slides

Lineage Bridal 5/16/12

Click to View 10 slides

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?

• House of Abbeydale

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.

• V.Vill

Inspired by the New Bedford, Massachusetts workwear company founded in 1937, Madewell is a collection of real, honest women's clothes that speak for themselves.

They're not too trendy, not too girly - just cool clothes infused with a modern attitude. It's an edgy take on casual with a few vintage details and a modern twist. Of course, this is the perfect place for stylist Davita "Swatty" Galloway.

As the lead stylist for the Madewell event and one of their favorite bloggers, Davita was on hand this past Sunday to style guests and interact with customers to help them pick out their favorite looks. The guests were shown how to wear the Madewell looks created by the Dupp and Swat team who styled a number of models though out the event.

And what's an event without good food and drinks? Guests also enjoyed a few special treats from Amelie's French Bakery. Now this is what I call a fabulous sip, snack and style event!

Madewell is located in the Belk's wing of SouthPark Mall.

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.

Saturday night, I had the pleasure of attending the 25 Most Stylish event at Butter in the N.C. Music Factory. This fashionable event serves as the kickoff to Style Week Charlotte every year, and this year all of the attendees were able to "party like a rock star."

As a "Hall of Fame" inductee, one of the top 5 of the 25 Most Stylish circa 2010, I enjoyed seeing all of this year's winners come out to show off their best looks. Honestly, I haven't seen so many fashion-forward folks in one room in a very long time, if ever!

• Leigh A. Pobiak

Welcome to the first edition of Fashion Whoreascope, a lighthearted horoscope that incorporates local fashion. My aim is to blend fashion and the cosmos by highlighting local boutiques using the stars as my guide.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

• Lauren Blake

Name: Jenni Nicole
Birthday: March 27th
Age: 26
Occupation: Works in accounting/finance; but side gig is an online women's accessory boutique which you can check out here.
Do you read your horoscope? "Sometimes, and a lot of times when I do I'm like, 'Yes! That's me!"

Aries follow in very close footsteps (or hooves) of their animal sign. As one of the first zodiac signs, the ram is first and foremost, a trend setter. Strengths include independence, enthusiasm, and courage. Not keen on taking orders, Aries enjoy making their own decisions and sticking with them (even when it comes to their fashion sense). The ram is uniquely energetic, passionate and bold and its traits translate into daring statement outfits. Born under the element of fire, Aries are fiercely attracted to red, a color that symbolizes will, power, and assertiveness. Because Mars is its ruling planet, Aries is one sign that is most strongly charged by masculine energy. So, you can always expect an Aries to be clad in a complex mixture of masculine and feminine pieces. Because their ruling part is the head, Aries are drawn to any accessories that accent this strong area of their body. Its not surprising to find Aries sporting hats, headbands, or bold jewelry that highlights the head and face.

All pieces found at summerbird (previously Monarch), 1222 East Blvd.

Red halter dress- Milly
Black button down dress- Vena Cava
Shoes- Madison Harding
Neck tie- Christian Dior
Bangles- Alexia Bittar
Fedora- Dobbs (from neighboring men's boutique, Revolve)

Having experienced New York Fashion Week a number of times, both in back of house production as well as a seated guest, I must say that I rather enjoyed attending Charleston Fashion Week (CHSFW) this past weekend.

The city of Charleston is alluring within itself, what with the beautiful homes, historical sights, gardens and spectacular food. Plus, the view of the Charleston Harbor on a clear day is simply stunning. Take all of that and add to it the excitement of fashion, and it's no doubt a winning combination.

What better introduction to my CHSFW experience than to hob-knob with all the other stylish VIPs? The Chris Benz event and truck show at Hampden on King Street proved to be an opportunity to do more people-watching than I have since the last time I was in NYC. My "fashionista in crime" Joy Randall and I spotted Mychael Knight (Project Runway Season 3) and I had the opportunity to chat it up with a true fashion icon, Fern Mallis. So, I'm thinking, if the widely credited creator of NYFW is here, CHSFW must be on point.

Last night I was able to go out and celebrate fashion and entertainment with a male focus. Often times, fashion events are tailored more to women, but yesterday the "Man Up" event QC Exclusives and Neiman Marcus threw was one heck of a shindig.

Guests were able to enjoy having their cigars hand-rolled by Outland Cigars, one of the Queen City's local businesses. And speaking of which, I love how this event included local businesses like Outlaw and NoDa Brewing, who provided the specialty beer. It shows that as consumers, we all want quality, and it doesn't matter if it's a local Mom and Pop providing the service or a mega retailer.

The event included informal modeling with the clothing provided by Neiman Marcus, of course, and I even caught one of the models having his bow tie professionally tied before taking his place on the platform usually designated for mannequins. In this case, the live mannequins looked fabulous in some of Neiman's best spring looks.

While the food and the drinks were quite enjoyable, I must say that my favorite aspect of the event was getting into the luxury cars parked outside. As you can see, the Porshe' suited me quite well.

I spoke with one guy who said, there was "no better way for him to spend his evening than enjoying a brew with friends, smoking a good cigar, enjoying really good food, talking cars with the boys and still being able to put a smile on my wife's face by bringing home a little something special." So now I'm thinking, how on earth did I miss the boat on this?!? I totally should have taken Mr. Strong along with me to this event. Needless to say, a good time was had by all.

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.

Now that the traffic had cleared, the parties are over and the CIAA 2012 Champions have been officially crowned, I simply MUST offer my own little fashion recap.

First and foremost, I noticed there were a few ladies who somehow missed my previous blog post on suggestions of what to wear and as expected, I ran into a number of fashion no-no's. I must say that these anonymous toes (photo found on Facebook, taken by a secret style source not to be named), wins the prize for "Top Fashion Failure". As you can see, "toe-overhang" is never a good look.

But aside from summer sandals in February/March and fur coats (in North Carolina, of all places) in almost 70-degree weather, I will move on because I like to accentuate the positive.

There were quite a few fashion favorites. Starting with the boots this young lady wore for CIAA day activities. I spotted her in the ladies room at the Westin Hotel. The boots were super cute and unique but I did wonder how comfy they are. Oh well, sometimes fashion is pain.