11

Feb

Who Wore What Where: Birmingham Fashion Week

From what I’ve seen come down the catwalk, come Spring we will all be wearing (or avoiding) high-low hems, pleated maxi skirts and palazzo pants, romantic sheer blouses (but perhaps not sheer enough to expose our lingerie, as was shown),  and tailored shorts.   But the high fashion isn’t just on the runway at BFW 2012.  I’ve spotted super-chic attendees in colored denim, one shoulder embellished tunics, faux and genuine fur vests and short jackets, at least one fascinator, and amazing footwear: booties, glam platforms, and of course, a Louboutin (or ten).  

Who was the most fashionable?  There were SO many to choose from, but I just had to talk to the very chic Miss Cates Lyman, age 6, who attended Birmingham Fashion Week’s Friday shows with her mother, Elisabeth Lyman.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Who picked out your outfit?  My mama. [smiles]

Why do you like it?  “Because my mama has a matching one…and because it has pockets!”

What’s your favorite color?  “Pink.  It’s a happy color!”

What do you want to be when you grow up? “A movie star!”

Is this your first fashion show?  “No ma’am.  I’ve been in one.  This is my third,” she informed me.

Cates’ mother provided additional details regarding her outfit: the Milly multicolored striped mini dress is from Village Sportwear, and was purchased so they could match on Palm Sunday.  The silver sequined vest is from SNAP KIDS apparel in Crestline Village; Cates’ red tights are from Target, and her red leather, buckled Mary Janes are from Christine’s in Mountain Brook Village.

Images courtesy Lynsey Weatherspoon Photography

14 years ago Short URL 2 Comments

Birmingham Live!/First Person Fabulous/If We Weren't There It Didn't Happen/Random Acts of Fashion/Scene and Heard/The Look/Who Wore What Where

////////

10

Feb

Lights, Camera, Fashion: BFW 2012

Laura Kathryn for Birmingham Fashion Week 2012

It was standing room only under the white tent and high-wattage lights set up in Pepper Place for the second night of Birmingham Fashion Week.  Lesson number one? Don’t wear four inch, patent leather, pointy-toed mules to a fashion show where you’ll be shifting your weight on what’s basically a toothpick for 2 and half hours.  By 7:10 PM my feet were begging for mercy. Tomorrow night? I’ll be in flats.

The night’s festivities began with a procession of entries from the college-level Emerging Designer and junior high and high school-level Rising Design Star competitions.  Standouts  included Travis Mackey, whose avant garde designs and attention to detail were different from anything else on the runway, featuring corset detailing, mutton sleeves and stark colors.  Mackey advanced to the next phase of the Emerging Designer competition.

The night also featured selections from local women’s boutiques SOCA and Laura Kathryn.  I LOVED the very wearable cheetah-print suit with short bottoms and apricot blouse, which will be perfect for summer date nights and cocktails. 

Finally it was time for the featured designers: William Bradley (last year’s Emerging Design winner), Southern Proper and Annie Griffin.  Bradley’s prairie-chic, flowing creations had  the feel of vintage Ralph Lauren in the fabrication and silhuoettes.  Bradley counts Chanel as a major historical icon and noted, “[I’m trying] to create a story.”  The pieces had a very editorial feel; Bradley should concentrate on fabric choice and fit as he progresses.  This year has been a whirlwind; his spring collection was picked up by Private Gallery and will be in their stores in May.

Southern Proper’s brightly colored, preppy accessories incorporated menswear from Peter Millar.  The line is

Laura Kathryn for Birmingham Fashion Week 2012

available locally at Remon’s and at the Birmingham Country Club, and there are plans to partner with J. Crew on a men’s wedding bow tie line.  [4:07 PM: I have edited this review to remove my previous enthusiasm for the line.  After further reviewing Southern Proper’s website in detail today, I was dismayed to see a Cotton Pickin’-themed print.  I can appreciate the seersucker and bucks look for men but I don’t support anything that harkens to “plantation chic.”]

Annie Griffin closed the show with feminine separates in muted solids and prints.  The line also made use of color-blocking, which is a major Spring 2012 trend.  The line is extremely wearable and appeals to women who appreciate the retro flair, the soft touches and laidback silhuoettes.

More looks from last night:

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Stay tuned for more coverage!

All images via Lynsey Weatherspoon Photography for Birmingham Fashion Week 2012

14 years ago Short URL 3 Comments

Birmingham Live!/C'est Si Bon/Haute off the Press/If We Weren't There It Didn't Happen/Scene and Heard

///////////

10

Feb

Eighth Grader Debuts at Birmingham Fashion Week

Pizitz Middle School student Lucy Bailey walked her first runway like a seasoned pro in Birmingham Fashion Week’s Rising Design Star competition last night. Twenty young fashion designers showcased pieces crafted from materials straight out of a Project Runway challenge, utilizing garbage bags, bubble wrap, coffee filters, feathers, pine cones, doilies and duct tape. Wearing a drop-waist party dress made of pink, yellow, and orange plastic ribbon designed by Greer Micelli, the Cynthia Bailey model search finalist spoke with me about her first foray on the catwalk.  She was accompanied by her mother, Shannon Bailey, and grandmother Marcella Bailey.

How’d it feel to walk the runway?  “It was exciting! The cameras flashing and the [noise of] crowd…I loved it! And I got to meet Miss Alabama [USA 2012; Katherine Webb]!”

How long did hair and make-up take tonight?  “About an hour and a half, ” mom Shannon Bailey shared.

Describe your dress (made of what is commonly used for balloon streamers) in one word: “Curly!” [laughs]

How was the Cynthia Bailey Model Search experience?  “It was really fun.  Being [chosen] as a winner was really surprising.”  Lucy was chosen as the fifth finalist on the last day of the competition last month and will compete in Atlanta in May.  At stake: a one-year modeling contract, photo spread, and $10,000 prize.  This was the second modeling event Lucy has participated in.

Although Miss Micelli’s innovative dress was not selected to advance in the Rising Design Star competition, both Lucy’s mother and grandmother were very pleased with Thursday night’s events.

The Bailey Family after the show. Courtesy Lynsey Weatherspoon

“I thought the whole night was fabulous.  It’s nice they let the young kids get involved,” said Shannon, who also felt the production was good for the city’s image.

“[Everything] was very professional,” added Marcella.  “And we’re very proud of Lucy!”

Stay tuned for more coverage of Birmingham Fashion Week and updated photos courtesy of Lynsey Weatherspoon Photography!

Images courtesy of Shannon Bailey and Lynsey Weatherspoon

14 years ago Short URL 1 Comment

Birmingham Live!/Haute off the Press/If We Weren't There It Didn't Happen

///////

08

Feb

Birmingham Fashion Week Kicks Off Today!

The local catwalk heats up this week as Birmingham Fashion Week descends on the city (specifically, Pepper Place)!  Local and national designers and boutiques, models and members of the fashion and beauty industries will unite for three nights of runway shows as well as design and modeling competitions.  And yes, Same Chic Different Day will be there!  Having reviewed the list of featured designers (including Smith Sinrod’s contemporary yet classic looks and What Goes Around Comes Around NYC’s vintage aesthetic),  I can’t wait to see who rips the runway.  The lineup promises a definite mix of exciting perspectives, capped off with after parties at local nightspots and restaurants each evening, a Bridal Day Saturday and the Mercedes Marathon on Sunday morning.  

Who will be spotted (and what will they be wearing) at the Gus Mayer kick-off party this evening? Who will be the Face of Birmingham Fashion Week 2012?  Which Emerging Designer and which Rising Design Star will take top honors?  Which designer’s line should you be wearing, and why?  Stay tuned!

Image via Birmingham Fashion Week

14 years ago Short URL Comments

Birmingham Live!/If We Weren't There It Didn't Happen/Scene and Heard

////////

30

Jan

Darrius Peace Hopes to Redefine ‘Beauty’

The natural hair phenomenon  – which has remained a topic of discussion thanks to enthusiastic transitioners, social media and films such as Good Hair – shows no signs of slowing down.  Birmingham master barber, stylist and instructor and 12 year hair industry veteran Darrius Peace is introducing MyHairAintNappy.Com,  a resource he hopes will “help redefine what we consider, or what we’ve learned to [think of as] beautiful and incorporate organic beauty into that definition, [and to help others learn] to love and embrace themselves in their organic form.”

How did you get into the hair industry?  When I got to UAB [where he received a bachelors degree] I decided I would grow my hair out.  Because it was really difficult for me to find someone to do the styles I wanted – I thought every girl could braid, and was disappointed to find out every girl can’t – it got me into [styling my hair] myself .  [When] people inquired who did my hair,  I told them I did it myself.  Soon I established a small clientele on campus.  Then I decided to legitimize myself and get certified, and there was a barber college close to Rast Hall.  I went there to get proper licensing and certificiation so I could become a professional hair stylist.

What motivated you to launch MyHairAintNappy.com?  At some point I am going to retire from doing hair. When I do that, I want to leave a legacy.  I want to have a mark in the industry so my children can say, ‘Here was my dad’s contribution to the hair industry.’  It’s been beautiful in the four walls of the salon, and now I’m able to [share expertise I’ve only shared in the salon]  with the world.

Peace’s plans for his brand’s footprint extend beyond an online resource; he has also written and published a companion book, My Hair Ain’t Nappy: A Black Man’s Introspective on Natural Hair, which can be purchased on the website and at amazon.com.   

“The book offers information on how to effectively transition – both mentally and physically – into accepting, embracing and loving your natural hair.  It’s a must-read for all those that are transitioning or even have a thought of transitioning to natural hair,” Peace says.

Are you against the use of chemical relaxers?  I don’t want anyone to think I’m opposed to relaxers – I’m not.  I prefer that if you’re going to wear anything that isn’t native to your natural curl pattern, that you don’t wear it because you think your hair is nappy.  I hope that black people begin to employ more positive terminology in reference to our hair textures and omit words like “nappy” and all those other words that are antithetical to our being beautiful.

What’s the biggest mistake you feel naturalistas make with their hair?  I think the biggest mistake I’ve seen is people not seeking professional expertise.  YouTube has been a very valuable resource, but it’s mainly comprised of amateurs who have learned to master their own texture.  But a professional hair stylist has encountered various hair textures and can offer custom solutions to help you optimize your hair growth.

What do men really think about women with natural hair?  To be frank, brothers don’t care.  It ain’t even about your hair; it’s about you.  We love confidence, we love beauty, and we love you when you love you. 

For more information, connect with Darrius Peace via email: dpeace@myhairaintnappy.com.

Image courtesy of Darrius Peace

14 years ago Short URL Comments

Birmingham Live!/Love That!/Scene and Heard

//////

17

Jan

It’s Showtime!

Tasha Smith

One of Birmingham’s most elegant and entertaining evenings is almost upon us as  The Sickle Cell Foundation  hosts It’s Showtime at the Apollo – Birmingham Style 2012 on Saturday, January 28th!  Similar to the famed talent show conducted at Harlem’s  legendary Apollo Theater, the event features a local talent showcase and actress Tasha Smith  (For Better or For Worse) will serve as host.  Sharon B. Lewis (Executive Director) speaks passionately about the Foundation’s mission and the necessity of a cure for sickle cell  and gave me a sneak peek into what guests can expect.

“Sickle cell disease affects the red blood cells and it causes extreme pain and can cause major organ damage,” Lewis explains.  “[The Sickle Cell Foundation has] been the advocate for improved medical care and access to social services for affected families. ”  Celebrities like Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins (of TLC fame) have put a face on the disease, which can lead to severe health complications. 

Lewis – who is very optimistic that a cure will be discovered soon – emphasizes the upcoming gala’s impact.

“Funds from this event have gone towards making sure adults have access to comprehensive medical care.   If we are who are working are experiencing tough times, imagine how much tougher it is for families facing tough times [compounded with] sickle cell anemia.  [We] help families obtain prescriptions, as well as dental care and vision care.  We’re able to fill in the gap, even [providing] things like transportation to the doctor.  And there are many complications.  It’s not unusual for a person to have numerous hospitalizations throughout the year, and it’s an ongoing cycle for them.  It’s really a vicious cycle.  In addition to financial needs, I hope that the foundation also offers emotional support to help them weather the storms they find themselves confronted with. We really thank the community for all of their support in the past and hope that they will continue to support us. ”

Lewis promises guests will enjoy “a fabulous evening with incredible food and this year [there will be] an extra special twist for patrons. ”  The black tie event will be held at the Sheraton Hotel, and a limited number of tickets and tables are available for purchase by calling the Foundation’s office at (205) 780-2355 or 1-800-735-0405 (tickets are not available online). 

Image via TSAW.com

 Connect with Same Chic Different Day via Facebook!

14 years ago Short URL 3 Comments

Birmingham Live!/If We Weren't There It Didn't Happen/Scene and Heard

////

12

Dec

Fashion Recap: NAACP/SWAC Night of Fashion

SCDD was in the building (yes, fashionably late!) for the NAACP Night of Fashion last Friday night, and what a fabulous night it was!  Held at the Birmingam Museum of Art and hosted by Jazze Pha and Miss Alabama  2010 Ashley Davis, the standing room only event featured designs by Alabama A&M alum Nicci Hou, Francisco Azucar, Shaka King, and Piedmont, AL native Borris J. Powell.  The evening also included formal recognition for Justice Ralph D. Cook, Sr., who received a crystal gavel courtesy of Bromberg’s.  And over$30,ooo was raised for the NAACP!

The catwalk sizzled with some serious looks, but if we had to choose a favorite, it would have to be the taffeta shirtdresses featuring layered or puffed sleeves, nipped waists, popped collars and ballgown silhouettes.  These classic looks brought the drama and would up the ante for any after-five social event.  We also loved Shaka King’s Spring 2012 preview, with its easy, breezy tribal-inspired resortwear for men.  Clothed in textured and printed fabrics, his models looked like they were flown in from some rocking party in Morocco!  For more fashion fab, check out the video from Kenny Luk here.

The fashion wasn’t just on the runway however, as Birmingham’s social set turned out in their finest furs and baddest hats.  Ashley Davis dazzled in a teal silk satin one shoulder floor-length gown with front slit, and of course, Jazze Pha was in his “uniform”: a red checked dress shirt, navy vest and denim with coordinating baseball cap.  We spotted several ladies in red, but our best dressed of the night has to go to the young woman who was spotted wearing a knee-length red chiffon dress with long sleeves,  accented with long strands of pearls, black tights, and leopard boots.  Trés uptown chic!

Connect with Same Chic Different Day on Twitter @SameChicSouth

14 years ago Short URL Comments

Birmingham Live!/If We Weren't There It Didn't Happen/Who Wore What Where

/////////

07

Dec

Bill Cosby @ the Alabama Theatre, 2/17/2012

Hey, hey, hey…Miles College presents an evening with Bill Cosby on February 17! Whether you know him from I Spy (which made television history by being the first drama to feature an African-American actor as a lead), Uptown Saturday Night  and Let’s Do It Again, The Cosby Show, his stand-up comedy or Fat Albert (which was also part of Dr. Cosby’s dissertation), his extensive philanthropy, his books, or from his activities as a no-nonsense,  outspoken social critic, – whew! – you don’t want to miss this show. 

No word on whether pudding pops will be provided.

Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.

Image courtesy of art.com

14 years ago Short URL Comments

Birmingham Live!/If We Weren't There It Didn't Happen

/////

06

Dec

Lalah Hathaway @ the Alys Stephens Center 12/15-16/2011

Mark your social calendars, chic ones! Lalah Hathaway (daughter of Donny and owner of a FAB set of classically trained alto and contralto pipes) is performing at the ASC on December 15 and 16, and YOU can win tickets! How? Simply check out Magic City Post’s contest and enter by 5 PM on December 12, 2011; many will enter and a few will win-you know the drill!

For more on Ms. Hathaway, whose newest album Where it All Begins  dropped in October,  click here.   And just for kicks check out this clip of what Birmingham concert-goers can expect.

Image courtesy of amazon.com

14 years ago Short URL 2 Comments

Birmingham Live!/If We Weren't There It Didn't Happen

//////

05

Dec

Can I Get a Roll Tide?

You mad?

We had the privilege of being in the house for the 2011 University of Alabama Football Banquet at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center yesterday evening, and what a thrilling night it was!  The legendary Eli Gold was master of ceremonies and the mood was absolutely electric as guests waited for the final BCS standings to be announced.  I would be remiss if I didn’t note that crimson and houndstooth were the color combination of the night, with Chanel handbags being seen on the arms of quite a few.  Floral arrangements by Norton’s featured crimson roses, and pristine white hydrangeas, accented with houndstooth bows and hats.

Congratulations to Kerry Goode, who was named Jefferson County Alumni Association Distinguished Alumnus for spearheading the Alabama/Auburn charity flag football game to benefit tornado relief efforts, and Trent Richardson, who was named Most Valuable Player, as well as all the other award winners.  We spotted Dont’a Hightower, Courtney Upshaw, Carson Tinker, Marquise Maze, and AJ McCarron as well.

Although we restrained ourselves from getting autographs, it was truly a fabulous night!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

See you at the ‘Ship!

14 years ago Short URL 1 Comment

Birmingham Live!/If We Weren't There It Didn't Happen

//

Create a free website or blog at WordPress.com.