come and see me...and buy stuff!

http://www.chicagofashionresource.com/system/assets/0000/0274/Menswear_Press_Release.pdf

I'm really excited about meeting some more menswear designers here in Chicago, and also a lot of new clients! Come on down to the Cultural Center on Nov. 12 from 5-8 pm and visit, and shop!

Here is the short-sleeve cardigan, which I'm sure will be a staple of the male wardrobe soon. This artfit is modeled by the delightful and charming Benjamin Bradshaw.

I apologize for the poor image quality.

Anyway, this is one of the few looks that turned out almost exactly like the drawing (below). That gorgeous window pane plaid comes all the way from Wales. I found it at L.Z. Products here in Chicago. Check them out at http://www.megafabrics.com/! Great stuff is waiting around every dimly lit, scary, but wondrous corner!

renderings

I find the creative process one of the most intriguing and fascinating things to watch. This is probably why I love shows like Project Runway, Fashion Show, Ace of Cakes, Divine Design, etc. I'm mesmerized watching my sisters do their make-up; I used to spend hours in different studios watching my friends create art in college. It's a process that is everything from exhilarating to excruciating, and I live for it. This collection came together pretty organically. I strayed from the renderings about halfway through construction, but they did serve as a basis from which the aesthetic grew. Here are a few of the drawings. When I get the look book done, I'll show you how they translated to three dimensions!

Collaboration was a HUGE part of this project, and happily I was able to pull from my Green Bay art peeps to add really special elements to the show. Along with Erin Cook sewing up a storm, the astounding jewelry designer, Barbi Gossen created gorgeous enamel boutonniere's to complete the dapper look I was trying to create. When I get better photos of these stunning pieces I'll be sure to post. Here, Mark Kolasa (also of GB art kid fame) models the sea lily brooch on his tube scarf. Amazing.

show pics

I'm waiting on the professional photos from the show, but I wanted to share a few snapshots from the event. It was a crazy night! Who knew that bar would be so packed on a Wednesday! I was so happy to have my family and friends there to support me!

My models were amazing. They really looked great in the clothes. I was thrilled. I now know how actors must feel when they win an award and need to thank a million people. So many people helped me get to this day, and I will be forever in debt to them. Erin Cook you are an angel! Travis, you put up with a lot, I'll clean up now, promise. My family for traveling a long and winding road to get here for the show, for your undying support of every crazy thing I set out to do. Erin Gotwals for doing the show with me. Josh Wintersteen for the use of his Nissan for countless trips to fabric stores. Cheryl for transporting the clothes the night of the show. The hair and make-up people. Everyone who added a positive energy to this endeavor. My boys, they were the BEST. So much fun. Can't wait to do the next show! And maybe sell some stuff!

This is real.