this is matt, he is a bonafide badass

The East Austin Studio Tour is full of creative badasses like photographer Matt Wright-Steel, creative collaborative Sodalitas and masters of glass Rejina Thomas over at Graphic Glass. The past several years I have found another MUST SEE artist or studio to tack onto my list. This time I’m getting smart and will ride my White Unicorn around the east side. I highly advise this type of transportation – there will be a lack of parking spots and more importantly, it’s a great excuse to get off your ass and enjoy the gorgeous day. It’s going to be 81 degrees – I just looked it up. [edit] oooh- looks like a little cold snap is working it’s way through central Texas. Throw a vest on and let’s do this anyways!

Bring some cash, get ready to drink some beer and make friends! If you’re one of those people who don’t like art, go anyways, there’s lots of people watching and live music. You never know who you know that loves to make art.

+E.A.S.T. 2009

The stars were aligned for the most amazing night.

Fashion Lounge 2009 was already in full swing by the time I arrived.  One could have easily walked out of Maria Maria Cantina with a head to toe makeover – Leather handbags, totes, belts and bracelets from Marnie Bugs, rockin’ jewelry from Taylor Moseley and Eliza Page, unmentionables provided by Teddies for Bettys and a new found respect on life from the onhand ashiatsu massage from Massage Harmony.

I finally laid my little hands on the necklace I won from Taylor Moseley’s giveaway at Estilo.  I had it on for five minutes before someone else wanted to purchase it.  It was an amazing five minutes.  I gave it up – because I’m selfless like that.  Ce la vie.

ATX Bleet UP - I don’t even know where to begin.   Ran into my favorite crazy ladies – maisquared, Pink Sun drops, maybecupcakes, heartsintexas, & polkadotsatx.  Took some rocking photos.  Think I ran into ATXHipsters – there was never a confirmation on this . . . as I stood creating an awkward silence.  My gameface was on and eventually received a smile.  It was pretty much amazing. Flitted around to Better Than the Van folks – Todd and Scott – my cheeks were in pain after the amount of smiling and laughing from the twenty minutes of catch up.  Totally spotted and remembered Adrienne from the first Bleet-Up – score for the both of us and our rocking networking skillz.  Yeah, that’s right, I spelled skillz and I’m proud of it . . .  A friendly introduction to Bird Fly Good, too.  Lovely gal.

An award should go to Lyssa from this is life in austin.  Totally smoking hot and ready in 30 minutes.  No wonder she got to cover Runway to Heaven.  Jealous?  A little.  :)   We talked about fashion & life in Austin (go figure), the awesomeness  that is The Austin Post, and ancient old techniques of networking – it’s called BE FRIENDLY.  I’ve got nothing but love for Lyssa, she was the first person to give me props on my blog and a chance to shout from the rooftops via Austin Post.  A welcomed interruption by the name of Caleb + crew brought his fine behind and interviewed us for his website Caleb Does.   Before I knew it, Tolly from Austin Eavesdropper was on stage looking like the minx that she is and thanking everyone for coming.  No, no, THANK YOU TOLLY!

And to my excitement sweet props from twitter folks that were lost in the sea of bloggers, Hipsterkrit and I decided that crown and tiaras were a must have for distinguishability.  (I will use any excuse to wear a tiara.)

Le sigh.  I went dancing after all this at my favorite hole in the wall and exhausted myself before the weekend began.  I’ve been going on and on about the friendliness and awesomeness that are the people behind their twitter handles and blogs.  I don’t think the night could have been better.

It was a busy weekend – Fashion Leak x Buy Definition (plus Megan Summerville from Sew Sister) & SHOP787.  While writing this post my mac gave me the message of death with the “clean your hard drive or I will make your life hell” so instead of posting more I will be cleaning off my hard drive.  I love you all and until the next time . . .

xoxo,

S

My intention of going to the Mana Culture grand opening was only to check the goods out on Taylor Moseley.  The lack of expectations were quickly blown away when stepping onto the property that houses the eclectic and bountiful selection of jewelry.  It didn’t hurt that boutique owner, Johnavi along with Charity Bash could throw a cultural soiree that transported guests to somewhere in between a Polynesian beach bash and a swanky supper club from Mana Culture’s very own backyard.  International act DJ el John Selector, catapulted by the infamous Thievery Corporation, pulled the A-game lounge card that made for a lovely evening of conversation and entertainment.

Hosting both local and international artisans, the converted house on S. 1st Street uses themes to display jewelry and accessory collections into one of 3 main spaces used by the boutique.

Tucked in the side room one can find a series of necklaces, earrings and bracelets inspired by designs similar to those dating back to 2500 B.C. in the Middle East.  The pairing of modern trends like fresh water pearls and braided ribbon bring this collection up to date and ready to wear for any special occasion.

I would like to note the amount of women who walked out of the shop newly styled and satisfied customers.  The Conservative Button-up left the boutique with an embroidered pair of boots that were TO DIE FOR and would surely become a staple to her wardrobe.   The free spirited wanderer walked away with a new pair of hand carved bone earrings to gift to a friend that sparked a heart warming gesture.

There must have been a feeling in the air, because before I knew it I was the new owner of a piece that makes me proud to wear.

A .975 sterling silver ring hand woven by the Karen tribe of Thailand.  Fair trade, too.  <3 Thanks T!

Mana Culture provides a niche for a cross culture that is aware of action and consequence. The crowd was a perfect compliment to the primal blend of goods. The night was fantastic, my only regret was that it ended so soon.  I met some fantastic and very talented women who are dressing, accessorizing & contributing to the lifestyle of the Austin woman.

+ Mana Culture | website | flickr

courtesy: style.com

Proenza Schouler the darlings of the fashion industry.   Lazaro Hernandez & Jack McCollough stole the show and wowed the CFDA (The Council of Fashion Designers of America) back in 2005  winning the Fashion Fund to jump start their burgeoning design house and again in 2009 for Accessory Designer of the Year.

The team brought it full force for Spring 2010.  A collection full of brights and patterns, tie-dye and an obvious nod to a generational vibrancy that most 20-somethings can relate.  My favorite this season is their shoe.  Check out that POP COLOUR!  It’s all over their collection but I love how they brought it to the shoe.  Throws me back to the friendship bracelets and keychains made out of plastic strings.  An inspirational piece for sure.

As anyone who has been following my blog or my life – I live for color.  I use it as my neutral.  Not scared in the slightest . I’m hoping with the past few season’s trends it will trickle down and capture the heart of the closet fashionista who is begging to take part.

Proenza Schouler I love you!

+ For more visit Style.com’s Proenza Schouler Collection

Taking a flip through an old magazine the other day and this Juicy Couture ad popped out at me.  I’m an avid fan of comparing originals and remixes, although usually in music.

My favorite discovery is of an old favorite, Nuthin’ But a G Thang by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dog.  I mean come on, the song is a classic, it’s been around since 1992 – 17 YEARS AGO!  It wasn’t until about 6 years ago that I discovered the original I Wanna Do Something Freaky to You by Leon Haywood.  It was a mind blowing day.  Go ahead, I linked the two songs via blip.fm for an easy listen.

Does the Juicy ad campaign look familiar?  Perhaps from a certain photo from the lovely Charles James collection?   I can appreciate the edgier take on the classic.  More often than not, the campaigns from Juicy offer a fantastic and fantasy driven view of fashion.  Their use of candy coated color palettes while maintaining current silhouettes in classic patterns lends itself to a young approach to life that any age can appreciate.  I do wish the set up had been more dramatic – either in depth and grace of the set and the models – or the exact opposite – a more cartoon-y and over the top scene, bigger skirts and bright makeup.    What do you think?  Am I just completely biased on the CJ photo, so elegant and perfect in every way?  Or did JC fall short of the (very high) bar Charles James set?

Charles James

Spanish Couturier, Cristóbal Balenciaga “Charles James is not only the greatest American couturier, but the world’s best and only dressmaker who has raised it from an applied art form to a pure art form.”

It has always been daunting moving into a new season. Decisions of what to buy with all of the new trends, color palettes, and silhouettes is enough to make a woman crazy! I go into temporary HDD salivating over the thick look books for autumn; the magazines appear glossier and thicker, the model’s statuesque forms taken with en vogue designs.  A full overhaul of the latest runway fashions is not in the cards for most, so I’ve decided to take some of the current trends and update them with a concise autumn drool worthy ‘must have list’.

6 pieces that will take you in style from Summer into Fall.

Current Favorites

1. The Harem Pant.  The beauty of this piece is the construction and architectural nature of the silhouette.

2. Oversized Watch. There’s something powerful about a classic timepiece.

3. Skinny Belt. The trusty and versatile piece, the skinny belt never fails to perfect the outfit.

The Updates

1. Classic Button-up/Preferably in Denim • Both the classic button up and the denim look will continue into Spring ’10. For the more conservative fashion gal, pick a classic colored button up in a fresh white or blue and white striped pattern. Update with quality and you will still be wearing it with pride come Spring 2010.

2. Leather Accessories/Statement Necklace • THIS IS A COMBI DREAM! Statement necklaces are popping up a little more often and I’m loving it.  No surprise to anyone who knows me, I’m completely insane about leather accessories.  I find myself these days looking everywhere for the perfect leather this or that.  Fat Juicy Color and Texture are telltale signs of a piece that will last a lifetime.

3.  Beadwork/Flat Sandals • Sandals for the fall?  Heck Yea, I’m not going to completely deny that I live in Texas!  Sandals last 9 to 10 months out of the year in the South.  Invest in the latest looks now and revel in the fact that for 6 months you will belong to a certain club of ladies who give you the wink for being so brilliant.  Weary of the beadwork trend because it’s just not your thing?  Look for a T-strap leather flat or dust off your favorite riding boots and voila!

Direct Link + Autumn ’09 in 3 Easy Steps by Colours Marie featuring Antik Batik shoes

Originally a designer of prints and embroidery for the likes of Chloe  and Armani, Fiona Paxton decided to make a change.  Using traditional Indian methods of clothing construction, the jewelry designer was able to transcend the woven patterns she worked with for so many years into sculptural jewelry using a mixture of chains, glass beads and metal.

Ruthie Davis, an American designer, takes a more MODern approach in life.  Interviews in the past have revealed Ruthie Davis’ inspirations from Eva Kant – a 1960′s French assassin from the film Danger Diabolik.  From the looks of her past few seasons, all funky, vibrant and with a modern twist, she has embodied the intelligent, on-the-go woman.

Neons, lucite and patent leathers are no stranger to the DAVIS by Ruthie Davis line.  While on the other hand, bright contrast beadings, mixed use of material and gorgeous patterns are expected from Fiona Paxton.  With the entire tribal trend set to take over Fall ’09 and into Spring ’10, I wonder how they will incorporate both looks for the sandal.

Ruthie’s signature strappy look could also play a part in providing the high value real estate that Paxton needs to convey her signature look.  Perhaps a possible t-strap or multi strap up the ankle or over the instep?  Curious as ever and scanning every possible source for the marriage of these two very talented designers.

Fiona Paxton’s Jewelry +  Shiki, 2nd Street District

DAVIS by Ruthie Davis collection + The Hip Chick , Westlake Hills

T + M

I’m not quite sure why the awkward pose (or the bruise, that does not exist in R.L.) – probably because I was excited beyond belief about hearing Henry and Sasha play with some serious sound in, of all places, a museum.  Did I fall into Heaven this weekend?

LOVE THE R E V E R B.

This was my favorite piece in the place, I’m a total sucker for street art, thanks a lot Banksy.  Also pictured is my lovely man, T.    I’ve got some okay iPhone photos that I will post later on, but I though this was pretty cheeky.  The Houston Chronicle is everywhere it seems!  For more photos click here.

The exhibit is called “NO ZONING”, which I find absolutely hysterical, as it is the very reason I LOVE HOUSTON so much.  It’s true.  I say it and I mean it.  I’ve had lengthy conversations about the loveliness that is a house and a coffee shop and a nationally acclaimed boutique next to another house  all on the same street. . . and it goes on.   A real city with diversity and culture.  and ART.  and good food.  and  . . .

A fantastic event positively.

I’m excited under my skin thinking about the CAMH but it doesn’t end there!

The after party is hosted at my favorite favorite Houston bar, DEAN’S CREDIT CLOTHING. [EDIT: This is the NEW Dean's Montrose; 315 FAIRVIEW NEAR TAFT]

This is where a little flashback memory jog comes in . . .   ((((((entering photo montage)))))))

Let me just go off about Henry Chow and my unabashed love for his beats. . . . and his hair! My first encounter with Henry Chow was for one of my rowdier partners in crime “Dirty 30 Birthday Party”, cough, a few years back.  Miss. Wee B and I share some very similar tastes in music – BEATS THAT CAUSE YOU TO SHAKE IT!  And damn, did she ever book a DJ for that.  And so, my love affair began with Henry and his gorgeous hair. And Miss. Wee B, who will also be making an appearance, as the ever faithful PARTNER IN CRIME!

The greatest thing about this weekend is that it is a full circle event.  See . . . it turns out the DJ Daniel Allen, who may or may not be linked with Miss. Wee B, is playing at Dean’s too.  His latest release with Yevette Williams has been playing at my house at all hours of the day since I discovered it.

And then the fuller circle comes back to ZULU CREATIVE for mentioning this little event at CAMH. Can’t wait to see you all there!

Direct Links + CAMH homepage

+ Henry Chow

+ Sasha Braverman

+ Spain Colored Orange

+ Gracie Chavez