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Fashion Careerist | How to Get Involved in the Business of Local Fashion
17 Aug

Fashion Careerist | How to Get Involved in the Business of Local Fashion

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
Photo Credit: Nick Souyris You know what they say – sometimes you have to start at the bottom and work your way to the top. At Midwest Fashion Week we’re often asked, “how can I get involved in the fashion industry?” and the answer is, there are so many ways! Whether you’re just starting your fashion career, or simply want to get involved in the community within an industry you love, starting at the local level can be a great and rewarding experience. Check out these ways to get involved in local fashion and launch your career from the ground up.   Start a Blog or Ramp Up Your Instagram Activity Blogging and Instagram have taken the fashion world by storm! Sharing your personal...
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14 Jul

Where Design & Beauty Intersect | An Interview with Dr. Ameer Baroudi

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
If you’ve been following Midwest Fashion Week for long, you’ve come to learn that we believe fashion is so much more than clothes and accessories. It’s about beauty, individuality, design, and creativity that knows no bounds. It’s a lifestyle. That’s where Dr. Ameer Baroudi comes in. A cosmetic dentist and clinical professor originally from Syria, Ameer has a unique look at the world of beauty and design, and how they intertwine to create a story of their own for each patient he encounters. We recently sat down with him to chat about fashion, travel and his experience on the Midwest Fashion Week runway!   Tell us a little bit about your background and your career history. I was born and grew up in...
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7 Jul

Finding the Brands and Designers That Focus on Inclusive Sizing

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
The human figure comes in all sorts of shapes and sizes – curvy, tall, thin, muscular, short – and more designers are creating fashion that everyone can enjoy – no matter their size. Not only is this important for boosting self-esteem and body positivity, but it also helps our society to get away from the toxic diet culture, which has long been associated with the fashion industry. One of the difficulties in identifying brands that are truly size inclusive is that the definition of size-inclusion can depend heavily upon who you are talking to. For example, one designer may believe that their line is size-inclusive, but those who would like to wear the brand may say otherwise. While there is somewhat...
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23 Jun

5 LGBTQ+ Designers to Watch This Pride Month and Beyond

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
June marks Pride Month, a month-long celebration for the LGBTQ+ community to honor their history and heritage. It is during this time that we reflect on the countless accomplishments and contributions of this community both culturally and professionally, and one industry that has graciously benefitted from its influence is fashion. In this post we’re taking a look at five LGBTQ+ designers who are claiming their success and making a difference through their work. Let’s show some appreciation and support these talented designers, not only during Pride Month, but all year long!   Faircloth Supply   After studying fashion design in London and San Francisco, Phoebe Dahl created Faircloth Supply, an effortless and sustainable collection of linen casualwear. Inspired by heritage textiles and utilitarian workwear,...
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25 Apr

6 Asian & Asian-American Designers to Watch in 2021

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
Fashion has always been about self-expression and as a highly personal artform, fosters the perfect environment for diverse creativity and talents to emerge and share their voice with the world. Without this diversity, fashion wouldn’t be the same. You’re likely familiar with the likes of Jason Wu, Phillip Lim, Derek Lam, Joseph Altuzarra, Thakoon Panichgul, and Prabal Gurung who have studded the pages of Vogue and L’Officiel for decades, but what about the up-and-comers who are working their way to the top? Here are six Asian & Asian-American Designers to keep an eye on this year.   Danny Nguyen   Source: Facebook   Uncovering his love for design at a young age, Danny Nguyen honed his craft under the teachings of his...
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7 Apr

The Power of Scent: An Interview with Geir Ness, Creator of Disney’s Frozen in a Bottle

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
Geir Ness has built his fragrance company around the environment that so inspired him while growing up – the mountains near Oslo, Norway. Following his work with large fragrance companies, he returned to his homeland and began a new journey – creating fragrances that brought the scents of his childhood to others. Geir kindly agreed to answer some questions about his role in the fragrance industry, his accomplishments, and where he sees the future of fragrance heading. Here’s what he had to say!   How did you first get involved with fragrance creation? I was doing some freelance work to promote several international fragrances and customers asked me where I was from. When I told them that I was from Norway, they all wanted...
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1 Apr

Midwest Fashion Week Featured in L’OFFICIEL U.S. & Paris

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
This year L’OFFICIEL Magazine celebrates its 100th year as the official voice of fashion worldwide, and Midwest Fashion Week was honored to be a part of the celebration! This week our recent virtual fashion show was featured in both L’OFFICIEL U.S. and L’OFFICIEL Paris online publications, highlighting five designers to know. This marks the first time in history that Midwest fashion was featured in this publication which has survived multiple revolutions and one World War, never ceasing publication during global turmoil and crises to shed light on the many ways we dress and the beautiful things that fashion often creates.     As a supporter of Midwest Fashion Week, you likely already know that our mission is to share Midwest fashion with the...
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25 Feb

Mastering the Runway: A Conversation with Model Scout Pilar Ammons

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
Model Scout Pilar Ammons knows that not everyone has what it takes to make it in the fast-paced world of modeling—but she's always looking for the next face and willing to help those with an interest. You may remember a bit about her career from this feature on models from the Midwest, but we recently had the chance to sit down with her and discuss in detail her involvement with Midwest Fashion Week, the biggest misconception about modeling, and advice she would give someone just getting started in the world of modeling. Read on to hear her story!   For those who aren’t familiar with your history, can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself? My name is Pilar Danette Ammons....
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4 Feb

Making the World Beautiful, One Face at a Time

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
An Interview with D’angelo Thompson, Makeup Artist and Author   D’angelo Thompson is grateful for all he’s accomplished—and he’s come a long way since his family uprooted their southern life and moved to Chicago when he was in his early teens. He is now the author of A 100 Days of Gratitude, Enhanced Beauty, Enhanced Beauty for Teens, and Enhanced Beauty: Men’s Grooming. He is also a Daytime Emmy Award-Winning Hairstylist (2010-2011) and Daytime Emmy-Nominated for Hair and Make-Up (2009-2010/2010-2011). Recently, we had a chance to ask the accomplished entrepreneur a few questions. Let’s dive in!   You're a make-up artist and groomer. Can you talk about how you got started in your career? I always dabbled with and practiced makeup and hair on my younger sister,...
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28 Jan

The Art of Experience Design with Author Donald Burlock

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
What does creativity mean to you? Does it simply mean “artistic”, or does it mean something more; something that consumes your entire being to transform the life you lead, whether in your career, personally, or both? Indy native and published author Donald Burlock believes it’s something more—and he’s written a book about it to help others unlock their full potential, or what he calls their “superhuman” nature. From a laidback Midwestern life to fashion photographer to experience designer, Donald has quite a story to tell and we were lucky enough to sit down with him for an exclusive interview. Follow along as we chat with Donald about his career journey, the inspiration behind his book, and how he thinks experience design...
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15 Jan

Serena Williams Design Crew 2021

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
Nike is currently partnering with Midwest Fashion Week to look for super talented up-and-coming Designers in the Chicago and greater Midwest area for an Apprenticeship Program to create a capsule collection for famous athlete, Serena Williams! The link below has all the info to apply directly. They are considering all qualified Apparel, Graphics, Footwear, Color, Materials, Accessories, 3D and Digital Designers. This is a paid six-month apprenticeship program that will run from early June through November, 2021. Nike will invite the top 40 applicants to a three-day Virtual Design Combine in March 2021 where you can put your design chops to the test. From there, Nike will select the top 10 Designers to participate in the six-month paid Design Apprenticeship at the Nike World...
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22 Dec

Are Pineapples the Next Big Thing in Sustainable Fashion?

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
Dr. Carmen Hijosa / Source: Ananas Aman With the textile industry ranking as one of the top greenhouse gas contributors in the world, insurmountable waste being added to landfills, global wildfires, and ever-emerging evidence of global warming progression, sustainable fashion is quickly becoming a hot topic in the fashion world—and it seems as though it hasn’t come quite soon enough. As a result, designers around the world are looking for new ways to manufacture, and are producing collections made from natural and recycled materials. One such material? Everyone’s favorite tropical fruit: the pineapple. Or rather, pineapple leaf fibers.   Developed by Dr. Carmen Hijosa of Ananas Aman, the natural vegan material Pinatex® is making waves in the textile industry...
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15 Dec

Behind the Scenes with Celebrity Fashion Stylist Alison Hernon

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
From the Midwest to the Big Apple, celebrity fashion stylist Alison Hernon has done it all when it comes to the fashion industry! When she’s not pulling looks for stars on location, or interviewing celebs for her online magazine, she’s sharing fashion history tips inspired by her own personal style on Instagram. We recently sat down with the PhotoBook owner to ask about her path from magazines to commerce and back to magazines, her favorite trend for F/W 2020 and her best advice for anyone just starting out in fashion. Tell us a little bit about your background  and your ties to the Midwest. I am owner of PhotoBook Magazine and a celebrity fashion stylist living in Brooklyn, New York. I grew...
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7 Dec

Honoring Midwest Music Legend Ron Miner, AKA DJ Indiana Jones

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
This past weekend the Midwest suffered a great loss upon the passing of Indianapolis-native and beloved local DJ, Ron Miner – better known as DJ Indiana Jones. Getting his start in the local music community as a teenager, Miner continued on to DJ for Hot 96.3 for over two decades before moving to Radio Now 100.9 more recently. He also owned Broad Ripple favorite Casba Bar, which is most well-known for its exclusive Reggae nights. Miner was dedicated to the industry, loved the city of Indianapolis and his passion for the music scene was undeniable. To share his passion with the world, he often mentored young DJs to help them learn the craft. Ron Miner, AKA DJ Indiana...
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2 Dec

These Outerwear Trends Will Keep You Warm All Winter Long

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
If you’re getting out this winter, you’ll need to keep warm. Here are the key trends you’ll want to sport, whether you’re just taking walks around your neighborhood, or heading into work.   Fringe Details   Gabriela Hearst From moto jackets to denim jackets, it is all about fringe this winter. Remember, with fringe, a little bit goes a long way. To avoid looking like you just stepped out of a rodeo, make sure to keep the fringe in the details. This is one trend that can become too much, too quickly.   Double-Breasted Jackets and Coats   Yohji Yamamoto Classics are definitely in, and the double-breasted jacket is no different. If you can, consider a splurge on a classic brand like...
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10 Nov

14 Fabulous 2020 Fall & Winter Footwear Trends

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
This fall and winter, don’t be left in the dark. Even though many of us are still staying home and social distancing, it’s no reason to forgo fashion. This year’s fall footwear makes statements. Think chunky heels, over-the-knee boots, and details with some serious pizazz. Want to know what pieces you should add to your shoe closet? Read on.   Tight Over-the-Knee Boots Over-the-knee boots have made a huge comeback this season. While some of the over-the-knee styles are slouchy, most are tight. Especially popular this season are the over the knee sock boots. These boots with stretchy material are both warm and fit a variety of calf sizes comfortably.   Chunky Soles 2020 has certainly been bringing a lot of fashion inspiration out of the...
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4 Nov

Shades of Gray for Mordant Magazine

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
The following media is part of an editorial shoot for Mordant Magazine's October Issue, Volume 2 and feature clothing by Midwestern designer Berny Martin of Catou. Click here to view the full editorial.     Stylist & Creative Director: Aby Kane Photography: Brian Edsall & Paul Howard Wardrobe: Catou Models: Kevin Daye Khareem Medici MUA Noelle Antoinette Rohan Williams Abdou Lo Daniel Roberts Aaron Brunson Abdul Sarr Earl Denmon...
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26 Oct

Midwest Brands & Designers Using Upcycled Materials

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
With an increase in wildfires in the west and severe storms in the east and south, it’s important to talk about sustainability. Historically, fashion has been a particularly wasteful industry – especially when it comes to following ever-changing trends. Many fast fashion producers design pieces to last for only one season’s worth of wear, with the expectation that the item will be discarded. There are several problems with this – one being that it adds unimaginable amounts of waste and chemicals to our landfills, waterways, and environment. While sites like Poshmark and ThreadUp are growing in popularity, fashion brands and designers are looking for ways to make their fashion more sustainable. Here’s a list of the Midwestern designers and fashion brands...
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9 Sep

These Men’s Fall 2020 Fall Fashion Trends Are on Fire

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
Soon, we’ll be having the last campfires of the season, the last trips out in the kayak, and we’ll be moving back indoors. As things cool down outside, things are heating up on the runways as men’s fall fashion is popping up in stores and online. Here are the pieces you need to have in your closet to keep the summer heat turned up through the fall and into the winter.   Fuchsia and Red   Source: Stylecaster   Fuchsia might be an unexpected fall color, but it’s fabulous. Red is also big this season. If you want to really be on-trend, go head-to-toe in these attention-grabbing colors. If you’re feeling like head-to-toe pink or red is too much, invest in a...
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30 Aug

Spotlight on Sustainable Fashion | Dawn Murtaugh’s ‘Jean Therapy’

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
There's no denying that fashion is art, uniquely allowing each wearer to express themselves through color, shape and texture–but for Dawn Murtaugh, fashion is art of a whole new kind: textile art. The Indiana-based artist is using old pairs of denim to create beautiful gallery pieces and tell a story about just how much the textile industry is negatively affecting our fragile ecosystem. As the world's second greatest source of pollution, the textile industry is known to produce upwards of an entire garbage truck full of waste per second. Midwest Fashion Week Director and fashion designer Berny Martin recently came across Dawn's beautiful collection at the Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana and we knew we needed to share her art...
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26 Aug

Women’s Fashion Trends We’re Loving for Fall 2020.

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
As the summer days start to wane, and we move into crisp morning breezes, we’re all starting to get antsy for pumpkin spice lattes, transition outfits, and evenings spent taking in the cooler air. Naturally, that means it’s also time for my personal favorite item to come in the mail – the September edition of Vogue. While many of us are still spending the bulk of our days working from home, it’s still good to keep up with fashion and what’s “in” – if only for the sake of our own mental health. We’re starting to see the 80’s and 90’s trends of seasons past die down, and style this coming season is once again more eclectic...
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12 Aug

Shop Midwest: J.Benzal

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
When we think about boutiques, womenswear typically comes to mind; small shops stocked with the latest trends, home goods and accessories. But more than a decade ago, a stylish man with an eye for detail and a background in textiles and design saw a growing need for menswear in Indianapolis and decided to try something different – and J.Benzal was born! A private label menswear boutique with three Indy-area locations, J.Benzal takes men’s desire to be fashionable and stand out with an edgy and sophisticated style, and makes it affordable and accessible in the Midwest. We recently sat down with owner and designer Ben Diallo for a quick interview about his brand, what makes J.Benzal different, and the one piece that every...
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6 Aug

These Designers Are Making Masks and We’re Here for It

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
Why settle for a plain blue mask when you could have a fabulous designer mask? That’s the question many fashion designers have been asking. From 2021 prom dresses that will have matching masks to masks complete with satin and ruffles, designers know that for the foreseeable future, the right mask will be the perfect finishing piece for your outfits. Here are some of the designers we’re watching.   Tokyo Twiggy Source: Tokyo Twiggy Instagram Tokyo Twiggy is an Indianapolis-based fashion designer. Her mask designs, all made from custom textiles, are colorful and fun–plus, they’re reversible! All of her masks are machine washable and come up over the nose as well as cover the chin, making them as safe as possible....
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1 Jul

Black Fashion Designers You Need to Know | Part I

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
You’ve added new books to your “to read” list. You’ve added social activism tasks to your “must-do” list. You’ve learned the names of all of the black representatives in your state. Now, it’s time to get familiar with the black designers who will have you looking fabulous the next time you’re ready to dress to impress. Ade Hassan Ade Hassan launched lingerie and hosiery company, Nubian Skin, in 2014. She wanted to fill a need for women with darker skin to have lingerie and hosiery with four skin tones to help women find their own “nude” color to wear under other garments.   Akosua Afriyie-Kumi Akosua Afriyie-Kumi founded AAKS to share weaving techniques from Ghana with the world at large, while also creating a sustainable...
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30 Jun

Wild Fashion | Creators Magazine

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
The following images and media are part of an editorial shoot for Creators Magazine and feature clothing by Midwestern designer Berny Martin of Catou.   Clothing provided by The Confessional Showroom NYC Designer: Catou Model: Livi Packard Photographer: Sophie Sahara Videographer: Brandon Giraldo Stylist: Anna Sproul Assistant Stylist: Dymond Holmes Makeup: Lauren Paige Producer: Lauren Kho...
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23 Jun

Give Me My Flowers While I Am Still Alive By Sean Patrick Watters

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
The following images are part of an editorial shoot for Ryker Magazine and feature clothing by Midwestern designer Berny Martin of Catou. To see the full shoot and learn more about its beautiful inspiration, click here. Clothing provided by The Confessional Showroom NYC Designer: Catou Photographer: Sean Patrick Watters Models: David de Jesus, Seth Hill, Gaël Carmans Agencies: Soul Artist Management & DNA Model Management Styling: Michael Stallings Floral arrangements: Emily Scott Retouching and layout: Marco Massa...
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20 Apr

How to Style Tie Dye in 2020

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
Whether you create the tie-dyed garments on your own or you purchase them, tie dye is having a moment again. After receiving attention on the latest season of Project Runway, many fashionistas are stocking up on garments that have received this fabric treatment. Before you deck yourself out in head-to-toe starburst designs, it’s important to consider how best to wear your new tie-dyed garment.  Here are tips on how to best style tie dye and avoid looking like you’re wearing a costume.   Accessorize with Tie Dye When you don’t want to make too big of a splash, or if your office is more formal than most tie dye garments, consider accessorizing with tie dye. A cute tie dye tote or fun tie...
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21 Feb

Top 6 Evening Wear Trends from the 2020 Oscars

by Ronda Bowen
Blog, Uncategorized
While many are still talking about the best and worst dressed stars gracing the 2020 Oscars red carpet, there’s room for a tangential discussion: trends in eveningwear. While few of us in the Midwest will wear a gown like Sandra Oh’s to galas and other black-tie events, we can still take inspiration from the event to use when selecting – or commissioning – our own gowns.   Sequins and Beading Bring the Bling     From Scarlett Johansson’s Oscar de la Renta gown to Brie Larson in Celine, the Oscars red carpet was filled with shimmer and shine. When it comes to sequins and beaded details, it’s most successful when the dress shape is more traditional – the more beads or sequins on the dress,...
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31 Jan

Shop Midwest: Lola Blu

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
The Midwest may not be known for fashion, but it is chock full of amazing designers, stylists, fashion influencers and small business owners–and when it comes to small businesses in fashion, boutiques are a fashion maven’s BFF. Their unique selections and affordable prices provide great style options for every budget, and offer easy access to fashion in even the smallest town. In the Shop Midwest series, we will uncover some of the Midwest’s hottest boutiques, so you’ll know where to find the latest styles, while also supporting local businesses–the best of both worlds! First up: Lola Blu Boutique, located just north of downtown Indianapolis in Broad Ripple Village.   Off the beaten path of Broad Ripple Avenue lies this hidden gem, in...
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14 Jan

New Year, New Style: Winter 2020 Trends for Men

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
Last week we took a look at the trends women need in their life this Winter, but today we’re switching gears and chronicling styles for the gentlemen. No surprise here, suits and outerwear reigned on the runway this past Spring, so we’re breaking down each trend in more detail so you can easily pull it off in your everyday style. Let’s dive in!   Military Coats     While not particularly new to the scene this season, this trend is quickly becoming a Winter staple. From camo pieces to peacoats and bomber jackets, the military coat offers a piece for every individual style with an air of sophistication and touches of individuality in each pairing. We’re loving an all-black look featuring a longline peacoat, or...
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9 Jan

New Year, New Style: Winter 2020 Trends for Women

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
While we all begin dreaming of Spring just after the holidays, the truth is, it’s only been Winter for a few weeks and there are so many trends to be taken advantage of while it lasts! Forget everything you think you know about cold weather style, ladies (hello, oversized sweaters and leggings–we’re looking at you!), because we are reviewing some of the hottest trends, direct from the runway that can easily be translated in the Midwest. Let’s dig in!   Fuzzy, Furry Outerwear   Photo Source: Denim & Street When temperatures drop, there’s nothing better than cozy outerwear that makes you feel warm and toasty like a polar bear, and that’s what this trend is all about! Sherpa, shearling, wubby, teddy...
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17 Dec

Spotted: Discovery on the Runway

by Admin
Blog, Uncategorized
*This article was authored by Freelance Writer, Kate Mazzarella-Minshall, and was originally posted on No Strings Attached News. “Clothes mean nothing until someone lives in them." — Marc Jacobs Photo Source: Esscence Taylor Instagram The dream of every model is to get discovered but have you ever wondered how some models actually get discovered? Becoming a model can be daunting. Even when you have the right looks, getting discovered is often challenging; it takes perseverance, discipline and an unwavering commitment but most importantly, the right contacts. It’s not always about being the most beautiful, it takes someone who sees the uniqueness in you and is willing to invest their time and energy in you to unlock your potential. Typically, each model's...
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9 Dec

Indy Highlights: Fashion for a Cause 2019

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
A few weeks ago, the Circle City’s best dressed and most influential assembled at the Indianapolis Artsgarden for Fashion for a Cause–a runway show featuring designers with ties to the Hoosier State–all in the support of this season’s charitable partner, the Fashion Community Foundation. Upon entering the beautiful, all-glass structure which sits over the busy streets of downtown Indianapolis, music was bumping and energy was high. Due to the later-than-usual date (mid-November), the Artsgarden was decked in gorgeous holiday garland and sparkling lights, adding an extra touch of excitement to the venue. Ticket lines were long, due to high demand, and there was standing room only, well before the start of the show. It was a full house and a...
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20 Nov

On-stage with Allyson Pruitt

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
Over the last thirteen years, we have had the opportunity to collaborate with hundreds of talented individuals in the fashion industry. Some global, some national–and some local, who are from right here in the Midwest. For this season’s Fall show in Indianapolis, Fashion for a Cause, we will work with one such individual. Allyson Pruitt is a personal stylist, entertainer, blogger, and self-proclaimed “hype woman”, and we are lucky enough to once again have her as our emcee for this event. Born and raised in Indianapolis, Allyson attributes her love for entertaining to her charismatic and talented family who always supported her interest in singing and dancing as a child. As she grew older, Allyson began to uncover a love for...
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18 Nov

Designer Spotlight: Mau et Cie, LLC

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
The last feature in our Fall 2019 Designer Spotlight series is the uniquely talented, Maria Mauro of Mau et Cie, LLC. Getting an early start in fashion design at the age of eight when she first learned to sew, Maria later taught herself to crochet and fell deeply in love with the craft. Following her passion into adulthood, she began making garments for her children and decided to start her own label, Mau et Cie, LLC. With an incredible energy and love for the art of crochet, Maria crafts haute couture pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind. From gowns to tops and pant suits, her collection incorporates a strong design with intricate details that make her collection a must-see on the runway....
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15 Nov

Designer Spotlight: Elan Furs

by Admin
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The next label to be highlighted in our Designer Spotlight series, as well as to grace the runway at Midwest Fashion Week (MWFW) Indianapolis’ Fashion for a Cause event, is a staple in the midwest fashion industry, and a long-time partner of MWFW. With two locations in the region– one in Indianapolis and one in Morton Grove, Illinois–Elan Furs is a family owned business of more than four generations, dedicating it’s stores to luxury fur, leather and shearling designs that can’t be found anywhere else. With sizes ranging from petite to plus, there is truly something for everyone.   Aside from stocking their showrooms with pieces from esteemed designers such as Michael Kors, Zandra Rhodes, Pisani, Zuki and Louis Feraud, they also...
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14 Nov

Designer Spotlight: Catou

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
If you don’t know the next talent in our Designer Spotlight series, do you really even like fashion? We’re talking about Designer, Founder/Director of Midwest Fashion Week, and family man, Berny Martin of Catou. Dedicating his line to men and women’s professional wear, this fashion design icon has grown from Indiana-based designer to internationally known in just over a decade. Take a moment to learn a little more about Berny and his amazing accomplishments, and don’t forget to snag your tickets to Fashion for a Cause, taking place in Indianapolis on November 22, 2019.   Like many in the fashion industry, Berny’s love for design started early. He recalls crafting his first design as a child with the help of his grandmother:...
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7 Nov

Designer Spotlight: Shawna M Designs

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
As sweaters and leather leggings grace the streets this Fall, the runways have hit fast forward and jumped ahead to Spring/Summer 2020 collections, and this is especially true for Midwest Fashion Week as it returns to Indianapolis later this month. With a focus on custom, limited quantity bridal and formal wear, Indiana native and designer behind Shawna M Designs is just one creative set to show her new collection at Indy’s upcoming Fashion for a Cause event. It all began with a custom flower girl dress designed for her in her childhood and grew to become her very own private fashion label – take a moment to learn a little more about Shawna Marino!   After earning a double major from Ball...
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13 Oct

On Set with Carissa Lancaster

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
Since its inception in 2006, Midwest Fashion Week has provided an abundance of opportunities to individuals looking to get involved in the fashion industry in a region where it is otherwise hard to find. Indiana native, Carissa Lancaster, is one such individual. A small-town girl, now living out her dreams in New York, is just one example of the positive impact Midwest Fashion Week has had on not only those involved but the fashion industry at large. Let’s get to know her a little better and find out what she’s up to now! MDFW: Thanks for coming back to your roots and chatting with us today, Carissa! Can you tell our readers a little more about yourself? Carissa: Originally, I'm from a...
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22 Sep

Trend Spotter: What to wear for Fall 2019?

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Uncategorized
Days ahead of the official start of the fall season, pumpkin spice lattes are passing through drive-thru windows, and chunky cable knits and heeled booties are flying off the shelves. For the fashion-forward, these pieces may seem #basic and merely touch the surface of the season’s trend potential, but the hottest designers always have a new trick up their perfectly tailored sleeve. Want to set yourself apart this autumn? Take a look at these trends that are sure to take your style from lackluster to leading lady. Animal Print It’s safe to say that animal print is here to stay–and for good reason. While leopard and cheetah print are the safer choices of last year, zebra, snakeskin and tiger stripes take this...
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10 Apr

Beautiful Difference | Diversity in Midwestern Industry

by Kacie Clark
Blog, Home 2018, Uncategorized
When you think of the Midwest, wholesome images of sprawling farms and quaint towns with small, family-owned businesses likely come to mind. But the truth is, there are a number of thriving cities with booming businesses, exciting nightlife, luxury lifestyle and niche industries–and fashion and beauty are no exception. And as diverse as these niches are, so are the people who dominate them. Far from the coasts which are typically known for diversity, the Midwest has also become a melting pot of race, ethnicity and heritage, creating a culture that is solely Middle America. So, what better way to showcase that than through self-expression–hair, makeup and personal style? From fashion bloggers and beauty vloggers to stylists, designers and models, diversity is...
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18 May

Meet the Designers & Sponsors from Chicago’s Spring Fashion Series

by Lisa Gunderson
Blog
Chicago-MFW Wraps Spring 2017 Season & Plans for Upcoming Events     Above: Modum Magazine interviews the MFW team, designers & sponsors   Just weeks after hosting its Spring 2017 season, Midwest Fashion Week is making plans for October events and taking time out of it busy production schedule to thank the designers and sponsors who helped make the latest season a success. Events took place March 29th-April 1st and combined exclusive fashion presentations with networking, food and female empowerment. Contributors include: Designers Antoinette Stone Ahava Zarembski Daryl Sneed Rong Zhang Shaly Guo Sponsors Holiday Heroes, La Mez, Nelson Westerberg, Mints Medical, ChikAfrik, NookiMooki, Hubbard Inn, The Whitehall Hotel, Chicagonista, LMG Chicago, United in America, Godfrey Hotel Chicago, Modum Magazine, CBS Chicago, Candid Candace, Tricoci University, Ford Model, Rock Agency, The Frock...
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