TFW 2014 Presentation Designers

Top Left - Esteban Osuna returns to Tucson Fashion Week after a stunning presentation at TFW 2013. Esteban focuses on designing couture, adding beading, print, and a fusion of European and Wild West inspirations to his designs. Esteban uses Swarovski crystals to add beauty and elegance to his unique gowns. At a young age he had a knack for art. He enrolled in the Art Institute of Tucson and since then has worked with many experienced professionals and has participated in local fashion events.

Top Right - Fashion designer DeAnna Williams is in the pursuit of her happiness. Soon to be graduating the Art Institute of Tucson in September of 2015. DeAnna is inspired by music, art, and most of all her culture. As a young girl she was always fascinated with the fact that she could manipulate a piece of cloth into what she wanted it to be. It soon became her full time hobby and eventually blossomed into a fervent array of designing with an emphasis on women's plus size fashion. 

Bottom Left - Dorota Zglobicka is a Polish fashion designer who has recently moved to Tucson. Theo Doro clothes and accessories are manufactured with great care -- unique, unrepeatable, unquotable. They are graceful in shape, comfortable in fit -- silk, cotton, viscose, jacquard, cotton ribbon, organza ribbon, and cotton lace gives a dainty finish. Theo Doro is inspired by fairy tales, films and the history of fashion. There is always a story behind her collections. Zglobicka is also currently working on developing a menswear line.

Bottom Right - Heather A. Lindquist, designer of label TONATIUH,  began working on her line while pregnant a few years ago, and that inspired her to use her son’s middle name, meaning Sun in the Aztec language of Nauhtl. Made here in the United States, the collection is designed for travel, comfort, and simple sophistication. Heather strongly believes in supporting our economy by producing her pieces locally. Lindquist’s new Fall 2014 line is inspired by her recent travels to New Zealand, which will be reflected in her color scheme.

Don't miss their fabulous presentations at the Tucson Botanical Gardens on October 17th for the TFW Garden Party. Purchase your tickets here!

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TFW 2014 Presenting Sponsor: Mercedes-Benz of Tucson

CREDIT: CHUCK POWELL

Mercedes-Benz has long been a name that is synonymous with style. A company that embodies elegance and superb design, Mercedes-Benz has a long history of working closely with the fashion industry. With fashion weeks throughout the world, including the renowned Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week New York, Mercedes-Benz has been a champion of fashion and design for many years. Mercedes-Benz of Tucson has returned this year as the Presenting Sponsor for Tucson Fashion Week 2014, proving once again that high fashion and the high octane beauty of a Mercedes go hand in hand.

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Mila Hermanovski in Dallas

We had a chance to meet up with designer Mila Hermanovski at her trunk show at the Piermarini Boutique in Dallas, TX last Friday. After browsing a few of her sleek modern designs in cool black and shades of grey, we sat down with Mila and discussed what she has planned for the TFW Project Runway Showcase on October 18th. 

After studying fashion design and freelancing in New York, Mila worked in costuming for television and film for several years. She credits her time at Project Runway for showing her that design was her true passion and she has been hard at work growing her own label ever since. 

Art and architecture are her greatest inspirations. "The view out of my studio window" inspired her Fall/Winter 2014 collection, Mila says. She watched as a building was torn down and rebuilt and drew creative inspiration from this structural rebirth. 

Her Spring 2015 collection, from which she will be pulling pieced for her TFW show, was inspired by the Dada and Bauhaus movements in art. She says that her new collection is a "play on shape and form" with a touch of whimsy, but stays true to her minimalist aesthetic.

Don't miss Mila Hermanovski's collection at the Project Runway Showcase at Tucson Fashion Week. Buy your tickets here.

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Featured Sponsor: Tuson Ladies Council

Tucson Ladies Council, a group of community leaders dedicated to improving the lives of Tucson’s children was founded in 2005 by Stella Schaefer. With their spectacular yearly fundraising event, The Fashion Show, Tucson Ladies Council has supported the local and national fashion and arts communities by showcasing innovative and artistic designs and talented performers on the runway.

 

In 2015, Tucson Ladies Council will present “The Fashion Show: a DECADE” on September 26, 2015 at the Casino Del Sol Resort & Spa. The beneficiary will be Tu Nidito Children & Family Services. The Tucson Ladies Council has raised over $800,000 for Tu Nidito in the last 9 years. 

The Fashion Show: a DECADE celebration will be its most exciting and spectacular show to date. The runway will revisit some of TLC’s most recognized shows from the past: London Calling, Cotton Club and Cirque de Couture to name a few. In addition to showcasing a selected group of custom costumes from past shows, several talented entertainers and dancers from previous performances will also make an appearance. Local retailers and national brands will grace the runway to the live mixes from a DJ. Professional models and a celebrity guest host will also participate. This high energy, over the top event will celebrate TLC’s unique platform for fashion and giving. It will pay homage to the past and visit the future with original creations from regional designers, national brands, and a historic vintage showcase never before seen in Tucson. 

Tucson Ladies Council, along with The Stinson Group Realty Executives and Nova Home Loans, are sponsoring the Project Runway Sip and Shop on Sunday, October 19th. Buy your tickets for this event here.

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Featured Retailer: Loop Jean Company

Loop Jean Company, located in the Casas Adobes Shopping Center, is Tucson's foremost premium denim retailer for over a decade. With a strong emphasis on building personal relationships with the brands they stock, Loop Jean Co. makes it its mission to stock some of the best denim in the world under one roof. Normally, to find all the different brands at Loop Jean Co., you'd have to stalk through more than 25 different stores!

The jean shopping experience at Loop is also distinctly different. They pride themselves on their customer service and care deeply about helping their customers find the right pair of jeans. In the store, a first time customer will be treated to a fitting that ranges from 45 minutes to and hour. After you've determined what the perfect pair of jeans will do for you, the denim experts at Loop Jean Company will be able to carefully select a few pairs for you to try on from their extensive stock. And don't worry, they won't let you walk out of the store with a pair of jeans that isn't right for you!

Buying a pair of jeans should be a careful process. At Loop, they explain that it's important to consider not just how you look now, but how the jeans will fit and flatter you after a few wears. Buying jeans that start of looking how you want them to end up looking is the wrong way to go. Jeans do stretch, after all. A free alteration of your brand new premium jeans is also part of shopping at Loop, because they are truly dedicated to finding the perfect fit for you.

In addition to providing a wide selection of premium denim, Loop Jean Company also has a rare Robert Graham shop-in-shop. From patterned shirts to bright ties, you can find a  slew of offerings from this colorful and innovative menswear designer at Loop. And on the first Saturday of every month, Loop Jean Company hosts a private trunk show in store, where 10% of proceeds go to support a different local charity each month.

All photos by Sofia C. Huggins

When asked what the latest denim trends are, the denim experts at Loop mentioned that rises are getting higher and higher. Some designers aren't even producing low-rise jeans anymore. And one trend that is making a surprising resurgence is overalls.

Don't miss Loop Jean Company on the runway at The Garden Party, the second night of TFW 2014 at the Tucson Botanical Gardens. Buy your tickets here!

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You can check out Debra Bloomfield's image, selected by Giorgio Armani himself as the catalog image for Armani Acqua at Paris Photo 2014 in mid-November at the Etherton Gallery right here in Tucson. Don't miss out!

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Estrella Sevilla in Mexico

Last year's student designer, Estrella Sevilla, who will be one of TFW 2014's Featured Runway Designers, recently showed her collection "From Nowhere" at Sinoloa Fashion Week, 12th Edition in Culiacan, Sinoloa, Mexico. Her inspiration for "From Nowhere" was the origins of humanity and our vision for the future.

Estrella is also spending the summer in London taking a course in Innovative Pattern Cutting from the prestigious Central St. Martins. We are so excited to see what Estrella has in store for us at TFW 2014.

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Meet the TFW 2014 It Girls: Aly and Eve

We asked our TFW 2014 It Girls to answer a few questions so that we could get to know them better. Check out their answers below.

Follow Aly's Instagram - @alyjay_g

1. Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from, how old are you, how did you first hear about TFW, and what are your plans for the next year?

I was born in Mesa, AZ. We lived in Las Vegas until I was around 7, and then moved to Tucson, where I was raised. I am now 18 and just graduated high school. Last year I started to hear things about TFW and kept asking myself how do I become a part of this? I then liked the Facebook page and continuously checked the blog website patiently waiting for the moment they would say they needed models. In the next year I plan on working, taking Pima classes along the way, continuing my model experience, and representing TFW.

2.How would you describe your personal style?

I'm rather casual. I'm a jeans and T-shirt kind of gal, but I like to add some retro sass.

3. Who's your style icon/personal It Girl?

My personal fashion icon is Chriselle Lim. She started out as a stylist, turned personal style blogger, turned YouTuber. I absolutely adore her. She is one stylish, classy, and chic young woman.

4. Let's talk about favorites: Food? Book? Music? Accessory? Beauty Trend?

Food: My grandma's stuffed peppers. So good!

Book: The whole Harry Potter series. It sounds really nerdy, but I love it.

Music: I enjoy all genres of music. I listen to a variety of artists. I rock out to some Metallica and when I'm feeling artsy, I listen to Young the Giant. To soothe me, I go for some Michael Bublé and then fan girl over boy bands.

Beauty trend: Love a coral/orange lip!

5. How does living in Tucson influence your style?

It's just a matter of dressing for climate. I wear shorts and skirts a lot but that's not a problem. I like showing off my long legs.

6. How did you first start modeling?

Modeling was always a thought in the back of my mind but I didn't get serious about wanting to model until a couple of years ago. I didn't know where to start but luckily my school had a fashion and modeling board program. I joined my last year of high school and it has opened many doors for me.

7. What would be your dream modeling job?

I think my dream modeling job, like most girls, would have to be Victoria's Secret. I mean who doesn't want to be a VS model?

Follow Eve's Instagram - @evesarris

1. Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from, how old are you, how did you first hear about TFW, and what are your plans for the next year? 

I am twenty-four from Adelaide Australia, I came to Tucson 2009 to swim on the University of Arizona’s swim team and study a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography. I fell in love straight away with Arizona, the heat, sunshine, nature, and lifestyle all suited my personality and being. I actually first heard about TFW on Instagram. I saw the post and decided to give it a go. After recently graduating and completing my swimming commitments, with a new freedom and a lot more time I’m openly and actively seeking out new opportunities in the next year that will lead me to future goals.  

 2.How would you describe your personal style?

I would describe my personal style as being true to myself, what I feel comfortable in and what works for me in the moment.

3. Who's your style icon/personal It Girl?

I have many style icons a few are Erin Wasson, Jennifer Hawkins, Elle Macpherson and Grace Kelly.

4. Let's talk about favorites: Food? Book? Music? Accessory? Beauty Trend?

Food: I like to eat clean; lately I've been adding quinoa into many of my salads. 

Book: Plain and Simple by Sue Bender.

Music- that’s too hard for me I love music and have too many favorites. 

Accessory: I love Native American jewelry, I have a 1960 large turquoise stone Navajo bracelet that I love to wear, it’s very special to me. 

Beauty Trend: working out is my number one I love feeling healthy and strong.   

5. How does living in Tucson influence your style?

I've always been a desert child but the South West has influenced me with the unique beauty that it has to offer, I love the influence of the Native American community and I actively collect their art.

6. How did you first start modeling?

I've always liked being in front of the camera from a young age.

7. What would be your dream-modeling job?

My dream modeling job would be traveling the world and getting to a level that I would be working with very talented people in their fields from designers to photographers and parts of fashion industry.

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TFW 2014 October 16th Design Competition

This year, the Design Competition will take place on the first evening of TFW 2014, October 16th at The Connect Coworking space in downtown Tucson. Ten local and regional fashion designers will be partnered with 10 local interior designers. The fashion designers will design a garment inspired by an object selected by the interior designers. All ten designers will showcase their garments on the runway at the Opening Night of Tucson Fashion Week. A panel of judges from TFW's Advisory Committee and selected industry professionals will select the competition winner.

The Design Competition is an excellent way for emerging designers to showcase their work before a wide audience. If you haven't already, sign up to be a part of this year's event! You will find more information and an application on our website.

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May Blogger of the Month

Phoenix blogger Lindsay Viker from Couture in the Suburbs is our May Blogger of the Month. We asked Lindsay to style a layered day-to-night look for warm Arizona days and cool nights. We love her chic, all black take! Check out her full post here. 

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It Girl: Audrey Hepburn

Photo Credit: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 

Academy Award winning actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn takes everything that it means to be an It Girl and completely transcends it. Probably the most famous and beloved fashion icon of all time, Hepburn is still considered by many to be one of the most beautiful women ever. With her gorgeous, huge eyes, iconic baby bangs, and impeccably graceful sense of style, Audrey Hepburn captured the hearts of the whole world and has kept a tight grip ever since. Women everywhere still worship this gracious and stunning It Girl, who inspires equally with her memorable words and her poised fashion sense. Who doesn't absolutely love Audrey?

Are you interested in being TFW 2014's It Girl? Be sure to find out more about our Open Model Call and "It" Girl competition here.  All non-professional models who attend our Open Model Call will be entered to win the "It" Girl Competition. 

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It Girl: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Today we have not one but two It Girls. The Olsen Twins have been "It" ever since they were little toddlers on Full House. Years later, they are a powerhouse duo have taken their interest in fashion to a whole new level. With their lines, The Row and Elizabeth and James, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have solidified themselves as real players in the fashion industry. Best known for their uber-cool bohemian style, these fashion icons are It Girls, sister style. 

Are you interested in being TFW 2014's It Girl? Be sure to find out more about our Open Model Call and "It" Girl competition here.  All non-professional models who attend our Open Model Call will be entered to win the "It" Girl Competition. 

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It Girl: Edie Sedgwick

Photo Credit: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 

American actress, socialite, and model Edie Sedgwick is best known as the muse of the famous artist, Andy Warhol, Sedgwick acted in several of his films and was often photographed with him. Her signature waif-like looks were heightened by her smoldering kohl-lined eyes and bright blonde pixie cut. Her trademark style consisted of the mini dresses that were so popular in the 1960s, black leotards, and long chandelier earrings.  Fulfilling the role of muse, artist, and inspiration that has become the purview of the It Girl, Edie Sedgwick is certainly a classic. 

Are you interested in being TFW 2014's It Girl? Be sure to find out more about our Open Model Call and "It" Girl competition here.  All non-professional models who attend our Open Model Call will be entered to win the "It" Girl Competition. 

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It Girl: Alexa Chung

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 

Our latest It Girl is the inimitable Alexa Chung. A modern day Jane Birkin, Alexa spurred the renaissance of the "cool" girl. With her chic outfits, tomboyish charm, and hair that made bedhead de rigueur among the young and fashionable, Alexa Chung, inspired a whole new wave of It Girls. A model and TV personality, Alexa charmed the world with her effortless cool. Her book It explores everything that it means to be an It Girl. 

Are you interested in being TFW 2014's It Girl? Be sure to find out more about our Open Model Call and "It" Girl competition here.  All non-professional models who attend our Open Model Call will be entered to win the "It" Girl Competition. 

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It Girl: Olivia Palermo

Photo Credit: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 

On Monday we explored a classic It Girl's iconic style with French beauty, Brigitte Bardot. Today we're taking a look at modern day It Girl, Olivia Palermo. Palermo caught the world's eye when she was cast as the beautiful and privileged "frenemy" on reality television show The City. But what really stuck with us was Palermo's impeccable taste and beautiful sense of style. Since her stint as a television star, Olivia Palermo has continued to take the fashion world by storm, either as a model, blogger, or designer muse. Inspiring major cases of hair envy and many a style inspiration board on Pinterest, Olivia Palermo is certainly a 21st century It Girl.  

Are you interested in being TFW 2014's It Girl? Be sure to find out more about our Open Model Call and "It" Girl competition here. 

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It Girl: Brigitte Bardot

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 

Brigitte Bardot is one of the most famous It Girls of all time. This French bombshell quickly rose to iconic status in the 1950s and 1960s. An actress and model, Bardot had a huge impact of beauty and fashion trends throughout the world. She popularized the bikini swimsuit and even has a neckline named after her! Known for her effortless sexiness and iconic blonde bouffant, Brigitte Bardot was one of the original It Girls. Are you interested in being TFW 2014's It Girl? Be sure to find out more about our Open Model Call and "It" Girl competition here. 

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Street Style with TFW 04.11.14

Matt Sawyer's outfit is a bold mixture of textures in neutral colors with a few rugged accessories thrown in. We love the slight hint of retro flair in his tough outfit. 

Jacob Woodside's outfit is a perfect example of Tucson style. A couple of perfectly worn in basics like his black jeans and plaid top, made memorable by a few well placed accessories like his silver ring, watch, and a pair of sunglasses we're immediately coveting.

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Hollywood Costume Exhibit at the Phoenix Museum of Art

Photo Credits | 1, 2, 3 

If you have a chance to head to Phoenix, you should definitely take some time to check out the marvelous Hollywood Costume exhibit at the Phoenix Museum of Art. We had a chance to check it out recently and loved getting a chance to see the art of costume design throughout the history of  Hollywood. Visitors will get a chance to see costumes from classics like Superman and The Wizard of Oz as well as modern films like Fight Club and The Artist. You can marvel at Indiana Jones' leather jacket or Darth Vader's WWII inspired gas mask. With interesting, thoughtful displays that show how costume can reveal and enhance characters, it's a must see for lovers of film and fashion. 

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UA TREND Aquatika Party

Last Friday, the University of Arizona TREND Fashion Club hosted a sea punk themed party at Lovesmack Studios in downtown Tucson. The event featured live fashion photography, great music, underwater themed decor, and plenty of fun interpretations on the sea punk trend. TFW 2013 Designer Donni Charm and Buffalo Exchange hosted pop up shops where revelers could stock up and the perfect accessory or statement piece for their ensembles. 

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April Blogger of the Month

We are so excited to announce our Blogger of the Month for April. Sydney Ballesteros of Golden Girl of the West is a stylist and blogger with a sense of style deeply connected to her sense of place. We fell in love with her elegant outfits, and the way the pictures on her blog tie her style together perfectly with her Tucson surroundings. 

Sydney: These outfits were styled with the homage to Tucson, my desert hometown. I love pulling inspiration from the elements and culture of the southwest and the desert. I like to refer to this style as "desert chic.” It’s about mixing these large statement pieces with minimal ones, much like the way the southwest is rooted in its natural beauty.

The De Grazia gallery is one of my favorite places to connect with the quietness of the desert, gather my thoughts and find my inspiration. It is such a simple, minimal place, yet filled with so much energy to connect with. 

Credit: All photos by Puspa Lohmeyer  | Turquoise Jewelry from Razzle Dazzle Vintage

The Chase bank is the perfect architectural setting for desert chic. It’s mid-century modern lines and clean, crisp white backdrop are reminiscent of Palm Springs, and the perfect example of how the desert can fit into this style approach. The cut of the simple green dress blend into the background of native plants and the silver jewelry and accessories bring out the best of the modernists era lines. 

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