NASHVILLE FASHION WEEK 2013 INDUSTRY PANELS

(Amanda Valentine of Project Runway & Libby Callaway)

Listening to the industry panels this year was incredibly motivating. If I didn't already want to step up my game -  I sure do now! Hearing from the industries top stylish voices was such a blast, I saw some of my favorite folks and added a few new ones to my "Stalk These People Online" list. Yeah, I totally have one of those.  You can see the full list of  panelists HERE. 

Some highlights for me were definitely being able to finally meet Libby Callaway, one of my favorites to follow. She's a great stylist, talented journalist and has worked with big names in the industry including The New York Post (being the former fashion editor) and Glamour Magazine. She's dabbled in vintage sales as well, owning Diamond Star Halo Vintage, which closed the beginning of last year. Jill of all trades, obviously! 

StyleBluePrint Nashville included Libby as a guest blogger in 2010, where she unknowingly makes a Nostradamus like prediction when she shares her love of Camo and Earthy tones, something extremely hot right now for spring. Not only that, but she shares here favorite hot spot to find camo and other military inspired goodies. You can find this article over HERE. 

Amanda Valentine, creater of Valentine Valentine was also as always a joy to listen to. I enjoyed her Project Runway commentary, so I knew I'd love this. She had some excellent things to say, it was a refreshing take on a lot of different aspects of the industry, both the good and the bad. 

And just to keep things short, one more. 

Lets talk about my new favorite fashion vixen, Sally Lyndley! I'm really glad NFW brought her in. It really was a great insight into the constantly networking mind of the social media machine. Did you know that Jenna Marbles makes something obscene like one million dollars off of her Youtube sponsors? Mind Blown. Learning new things is fun, ya'll. You can find more about Sally HERE on her Facebook and HERE in a feature via Nashville Scene. 

Thank you NFW for doing such a great job on picking panelists! I'm going to just throw this out there and say it's one of my favorite parts of Nashville Fashion Week. 

And one final very enthusiastic caffeine coma inducing thank you to Red Bull for sponsoring. I'm not gonna lie. I took a few cans home with me. (THAT CRANBERRY RED BULL OMG)I can't feel my face, or the pain in my feet from walking around in high heels non-stop all week. Much appreciated! 

The adorable Abby White of Nashville Scene. I LOVE HER DRESS. 

Lindsay Timberlake from Thriftophile // Heirloom & Codie Gentry of The Tennesseean & A Brunette. + Me. 

+I'm wearing vintage that I've altered & shoes are Jeffrey Campbell Soiree. If you're curious about my hair color, thank Reyna Waller at Salon YaYa off 21st Ave. Mention me and get $20 off your first service! Whaaaaaat!+

NASHVILLE FASHION WEEK 2013: NIGHT ONE x PINNACLE BLDG

It's that time of year again! Get ready for a flood of photo posts. Enjoy!

NASHVILLE FASHION WEEK NIGHT ONE

PLENTY BY TRACY REESE 

Plenty by Tracy Reese had a great selection for any age or style, incorporating luxurious prints and bold spring colors. It was an effortlessly chic line that gave off a feminine vibe with its sleek silhouettes and floaty bohemian influences. You could definitely see a modern twist to some classic styles - refreshing and fun. 

TRACY REESE 

Following her other line, PLENTY, Tracy changed the mood from bohemian chic to sultry with her incorporation of  thoughtful structures and a toned down color palette.  Everything was still playful, but could be easily incorporated into a business casual wardrobe. I always appreciate things that can be integrated into any woman's closet!

KAL RIEMAN 

Cally Rieman is no stranger to our budding Nashville fashion industry, showing a beautiful collection last year - also at the Pinnacle Bldg - this year is no exception. Her designs were executed beautifully with a stunning array of mixed prints and flared pants reminiscent of the work-chic style of the 1970's, even with the added delight of pussy bows. Okay, I know that sounded pervy, but I swear to god thats what they're called! 

R E D D O L L    BY  TATYANA MERENYUK 

I hate to sound biased, but I LOVE this line. LOVE. Tatyana also showed last year in addition to Versace at the Parthenon. She always raises the bar on floaty, flirty and feminine which are my favorite F Words. The silhouettes are remarkably constructed to flatter any hot blooded woman. Heads up those of you who are engaged - she does wedding gowns! Rejoice! 

NONOO

Last, but most certainly not least, we have NoNoo who was so kindly sponsored this year by one of my favorite Nashville shopping spots, Gus Mayer. The whole collection brought Mother Russia to Nashville with the most fantastic glamorous flair! Fur hats? Check. Sultry reds and beautiful prints? Check. Classic shapes mixed with peek-a-boo cut outs?? DOUBLE CHECK. I'm sold. Bol'shoe Spasibo, NoNoo! (Thank you very much)

CATCH A SNEAK PEEK INTO NASHVILLE DESIGNER AMANDA VALENTINE'S BUSY LIFE AND CHIC STUDIO!

I had the pleasure of catching up with fellow Nashville fashion junkie and Project Runway contestant Amanda Valentine a few weeks back - we giggled and shared our love of occult symbolism along with ethnic prints and the frustrations of pattern making.  I'm always thankful to find like minded ladies to rant about the joys and tears of sewing, something I'm mediocre at - but Amanda is thriving and creating remarkable things with her unique vision and passion for her craft. 

Amanda will be having a summer preview sale / party for her line VALENTINE VALENTINE this Friday, April 5th at Bar No. 308. Come out and say hi, buy some awesome things and get drunk. In that order. You can find event information HERE on Facebook. 

AND

If you're going to be out and about for Nashville Fashion Week's activities this week you can also catch Amanda Wednesday, April 3rd at the Trolly Barns at Rolling Mill Hill. Get your tickets through NowPlayingNashville HERE.

Q+A 

What spring trends are you into right now? 

I love the black/white/red color blocked look for spring.  It feels so- unfussy and tough.  I've never been a floral/pastel girl, so anything bold I will latch onto immediately!  

Any predictions for what will be hot this summer?  

I love a kind of athletic aesthetic for summer.  I'm going to experiment with sweatshirt/sweatpant looks in lighter fabrics, mixed patterns and easy shapes.  Maybe even mix a tough crop top with a flowy skirt.  That's what I'll be in this summer!

What do you look for in a creative space / studio? 

Easy access to my supplies and great speakers!  I'm a horrible interior designer so it's all about function for me - with a few quirky items mixed in!  I keep gifts from my husband near my desk.  He recreated a Man Ray sculpture for me when we first started dating and recently bought me a spider frozen in Lucite.  My creative space must always include Spotify.  I listen to music all day everyday.

What bit of advice would you share with someone who is interested in starting their own line?

Pay attention to craft!  That's a lesson I learned via Project Runway.  I always assumed that I was the designer, so I didn't need to be the seamstress.  But having an understanding of how every aspect of construction works is CRUCIAL.  And when you start out, you are the one sewing it all (I STILL hand make every piece)!  Your pieces need to compete with a lot of amazing work out there.  So hustle!

If you could do it all over again, is there anything you might change?

I think I would have apprenticed a designer right out of college - that would have improved my craft and expanded my knowledge immensely.  

And I know I would have had more confidence in my voice and vision on Project Runway.  I know where I "slipped" - and although I'm grateful to have learned those lessons - it's tough to learn those lessons on national television!

It really is ALL about trusting your gut and following your vision.  100%.

What was your favorite Project Runway challenge? 

Miranda Lambert!  For so many reasons!  First of all, it started in a western bar, so I felt right at home.  Second, Miranda is a genius, and a real representation of the type of women I want to dress in real life.  But really, that was the only challenge I trusted my gut on!  I did exactly what I wanted to do and it was received wonderfully.  What an incredible feeling!

Any hints on what we can expect from you in the future? (hoping it involves more holographic fabric) :)

Coming home after the show has been such a whirlwind, and I've spent months saying, "uh, what next?"  I'm still styling, working on some collaborations and making clothes!  I'm planning an event for next week- a mini trunk show/party at 308 and already have plans for a fall fashion show at a new venue, "The Crying Wolf", opening later this spring! DIY!

NASHVILLE FASHION WEEK INDUSTRY PANEL

The stylishly smart side of fashion - industry panels - will be presented this coming Wednesday, April 3rd in our fair city as we all gear up for the lovable madness of Nashville Fashion Week. 

I'm excited that some of my favorite people will be speaking on my favorite 'business of blogging and fashion' topics including Amanda Valentine of Project Runway, the owner of the brilliant fashion-for-all website Thompson Fifteen, Chelsea Eager along with a panel moderated by Nashville fashion icon, Libby Callaway and many other big names in our fashion industry. 

Check out the full rundown in their press release provided below:

AND remember, panels are FREE but they do ask for a donation. If you want to be sure and reserve your spot, click HERE so they can send you your confirmation ticket. Space is limited, so get going ladies.  

- Katie 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 22, 2013) – Nashville Fashion Week is proud to announce the 2013 Fashion Industry Panels, which will take place Wednesday, April 3, 2013 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. at Emma's Bistro (9 Lea Avenue) at The Trolley Barns at Rolling Mill Hill.

 

Industry Panels are free for all Emerging Designer applicants, All Access Pass Holders and ticket holders, however reservations are required for admission and there is a $10 suggested donation at the door. Reserve your space at www.NowPlayingNashville.com.

INDUSTRY PANEL SCHEDULE: 

 

10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

THE BUSINESS OF ATTIRE: HOW TO BUILD A FASHION BRAND 

Experts dish the nitty-gritty of growing a fashion company from the ground up. A must for all designers as well as anyone who wants “real world” insight into how the fashion industry works.

Moderator: Sophie Simmons, designer/owner of a small luxury fashion company 

Panel: Design, development and production specialist David Perry of The DSP Group; entertainment attorney Robert Darwell of Sheppard Mullin; designer and Nashville Fashion Fund 2012 winner Lauren Leonard of Leona; NFW 2013 designer Cally Rieman of Kal Rieman; retail recruiter for the Nashville Downtown Partnership Crissy Cassetty

 

1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

MUSIC CITY RETAIL ROCKS! SELLING FASHION IN NASHVILLE

Leading local retailers tell what it takes to run and buy for a fashion boutique. A variety of different business models will be explored, including online, direct sales, and traditional designer-driven stores.

Moderator: Elizabeth Broyhill, veteran Nashville retailer and brand and media consultant 

Panel: Nashville-based designer and boutique owner Kayce Hughes; Thompson Fifteen owner Chelsea Eager; Sevier Skirts founder Suzanne Sevier Rowland; Kathy Hadley of POSH Boutique; Whitney Dunn, co-owner of The Perfect Pair

 

3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

LOOK SHARP! SELLING THE IMAGE

Pros weigh in on how strong visuals, good press assets and a solid social media plan sell a brand. It’s a boon for anyone who’s curious about the world of marketing and image. 

Moderator: Libby Callaway, fashion writer/media consultant 

Panel: 2013 Project Runway contestant and fashion designer Amanda Valentine of Valentine Valentine; Bismarck Phillips Communications (BPCM) owner Carrie Phillips; Nashville Pinterest superstar and social media expert Lauren Zwanziger; Next Model Management agency director Alexis Borges; fashion/celebrity stylist and former contributor to Vogue andLove, Sally Lyndley 

 

Tickets, the full Nashville Fashion Week schedule and additional details on each industry panel moderator and speaker can be found at www.NashvilleFashionWeek.com.

NASHVILLE FASHION WEEK 2013 EVENT INFORMATION AND UPDATED FEATURED DESIGNER LIST

Image - NFW 2012 / Red Doll 

It's that time of year again.

NASHVILLE FASHION WEEK!

If you haven't already seen the line-up of designers (More to be announced soon!) and marvelous event spaces, here's your chance to get caught up! 

I've included the NFW2013 press release below and hope you'll all try to make it out to at least one night of fashion forward fun. It really is an unforgettable week and I look forward to it every year. I hope to see you all out looking stylish, and you better have your game faces on, because I'll have my camera. Watch out. 

Who are your favorites? Why? If you could choose any designer in the world to be featured here in Nashville - who would you pick and why? 

Just some food for thought - and I'd love to hear your responses! 

- Katie

NASHVILLE FASHION WEEK IS PROUD

TO ANNOUNCE 2013 LOCATIONS &

INITIAL LIST OF DESIGNERS

TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 14, 2013) – Nashville Fashion Week is proud to announce the initial list of designers that will be showing collections during the series of events, which take place April 2-6, 2013 in locations across the city. In addition, the 2013 schedule is now live and tickets are on sale at www.NashvilleFashionWeek.com.

This year's festivities will kick off on Tuesday, April 2, 2013 with runway shows at The Pinnacle at Symphony Place featuring womenswear collections from Kal Rieman and Red Doll, two lines based in NYC. The Official Nashville Fashion Week Kick-Off Party sponsored by Opry Mills and Williams Edge Salon will take place at The Southern immediately following those runway shows.

The Wednesday night runway shows on April 3, 2013 will take place in the courtyard space at the Trolley Barns of Rolling Mill Hills overlooking downtown Nashville. That evening will feature collections from T. Rains, who will headline that night of shows and Kat Seaton as well as Tuft, Pink Elephant Designs and Black by Maria Silver, all three of which were featured in 2012 in the Emerging Designers Showcase and have since gone on to create full collections that will walk the runway in 2013. Wednesday daytime events include industry panels from fashion professionals that will take place at Emma's Bistro, also located in the Trolley Barns at Rolling Mill Hills. (Look for a separate release with full details on the industry panels coming soon.)

The runway shows on Thursday, April 4, 2013 will take place at Nashville's historic Belmont Mansion with shows starting mid-morning at 11:30 a.m. Collections from Modern Trousseau and Memeka by Gustavo Cadille will be the highlight of the day with a luncheon to follow at nearby, brand new eatery - blvd., located at 2013 Belmont Blvd. The duration of Thursday will be dedicated to SHOP Nashville Day, a city-wide boutique crawl sponsored by The Gulch. That event will be capped by a cocktail party hosted by Pine Street Lofts in the Gulch later that evening. (Look for a separate release with full details on participating boutiques coming soon.)

On Friday, April 5, 2013, a collection from the 2012 Nashville Fashion Forward Fund recipient, Lauren Leonard, designer of Leona, will be shown as well as looks from Danish fashion house SAND, presented by Levy's.  Those shows will take place at Grand Avenue's new event space in downtown Nashville with a pop-up dinner to follow in the same location. 

Nashville Fashion Week will conclude on Saturday, April 6, 2013 with a grand finale event sponsored by Red Bull featuring soon-to-be-announced emerging designers. That event, along with the official Nashville Fashion Week Closing Night Party sponsored by William Edge Salon will take place at Anthem, a new, stylish nightclub and events space recently opened in the north gulch at 125 12th Ave. N. 

Additional designers and events will be announced in the coming weeks and all specific times and locations will be added to the official schedule on www.NashvilleFashionWeek.com.