FASHION OMAHA
MAGAZINE
Photo Contest Results
Fall 2011 Designer Directory
Fashion’s Night Out Coming September 8, 2011
issue#2 2011
SHOP THE COVER Meghann Schense and Daniel Muller of Esoteric Velvet teamed up with Megan Hunt of Princess Lasertron, and Tru Salon and Spa to create the winning shot of our inaugural Style, Shoot, Send Cover Photo Contest. According the Meghann, “Once we saw Megan’s new line of colorful party dresses, a birthday party or celebratory picture came to mind. The idea was to highlight the quality of the designs, fabric and textures of the dresses blended into a light, diverse scene displaying their versatility.”
“The set was outdoors, very prop heavy and colorful to create a complete idea for the backdrop of a birthday party or celebration, adding in picnic baskets, a typewriter, a topsy-turvy frosted cake, vintage dish wear, a scooter, decorative, layered blankets and lanterns to embellish the setting.” “We choose a diverse group of models to convey the idea that Megan’s designs fit into a causal party/picnic vibe. We had fun adding in accessories like leather gloves and patterned scarves as well as Megan’s pins and felt floral bouquets.”
Where to beautify: Where to buy: Dresses, pins and felt floral bouquets available at www.princesslasertron.com
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Cake from Elise Herbel, baker at Jones Bros. Cupcakes www.jonesbroscupcakes.com omahafashionweek.com
Tru Salon at 3220 Farnam St # 2105 in Omaha. Call (402) 933-8988 Where to picnic: Anywhere in the Ponca Hills on a sunny day!
on the inside 5
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
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STYLE, Shoot, send
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creative threads
26 VIP SPRING RUNWAY SHOW RECAP 32 fashion’s night out 34
fresh faces
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designer directory
FASHION
Photography by BUF REYNOLDS
OMAHA
MAGAZINE
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
CREATIVE
Nick Hudson
Amy Gibbs
EDITOR
Editorial CONTRIBUTORS
Brook Hudson
Annie Kawamoto Meghann Schense The Creative Community
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
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e are very pleased to welcome you to the fourth year of Omaha Fashion Week. Much to the amazement of many, what started as a small, outlandish project on Jones Street has captured the heart of our city and grown fourfold since it began in 2008. This year, over 90 designers applied to be part of the August shows. The 40 who were selected are a testament to the growing confidence in local design talent. We continue to be impressed by the creative lengths OFW designers go through to produce their collections. Many are participating for their first time. Others are battle-hardened veterans who go out of their way to show newcomers the ropes. No matter their experience level, they have all faced down challenges. From overcoming the doubts of those around them, to finding facilities or space for production, to affording raw materials, Omaha Fashion Week designers triumph year after year. Their creativity, ingenuity and work ethic is ever able to overcome what might stand in their way. We encourage you to use the Designer Directory located in the last section of this magazine to follow this tenacious fashion talent as it unfolds during the week. Through the support of the event attendees and sponsors, OFW has remained a resource to support networking, materials sourcing, education and above all a showcase...all at a very attractive price for designers…free! We believe the surface has only been scratched in terms of unlocking the creative genius of Omaha’s fashion design community. We intend to increase our ability to nurture it and are excited to announce the start of an Omaha Fashion Week non-profit fund to support that effort. Details about this fund will be available on the website in late September. None of this would be possible without the unflagging support of the Omaha community. Both the 6,000 people who are expected to view the event again this year and the over 1,125 who are involved behind the scenes in staging the show contribute to its success.
Photography by Jeffery Pope
This awakening of the fashion consciousness within our city is very exciting. We are anxiously anticipating what is to come this week and what 2012 will bring. From any perspective, we are thrilled that Omaha can proudly claim to be a city stylishly on the rise. We’ll see you on the Red Carpet! Nick & Brook Hudson Producers Omaha Fashion Week
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STYLE, Shoot, Send Everyone says Omaha’s best asset is its people. We’d like to be more specific in saying Omaha’s best asset is its CREATIVE people. Over the summer, Omaha FASHION Magazine invited this community to flex its creative muscles in our inaugural Style, Shoot and Send Photo Contest. Groups of OFW designers, photographers, stylists and models teamed up to bring looks that will grace our fall runways to life on film. The winner received a $5,000 prize package that included cash, an ad in our next edition of Omaha FASHION Magazine, the cover of our current issue and most importantly...bragging rights! We were blown away by the results and have selected a few of our favorite entries for you to feast your eyes on. The full collection of photo entries can be seen on omahafashionweek.com. Enjoy!
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Pastel Groove House
“We wanted to portray a style of frivolity and light heartedness. The clothing designs consist of cheerful colors and fun patterns, so naturally a vibrant setting would only enhance everything. We also wanted to create something abstract yet visually appealing and unique. I believe we accomplished that.� Designer: Shamina Wiek for Pastel Groove House Photographer: Evan Baumhofer Stylist: Shamina Wiek Location: Fun Plex omahafashionweek.com
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Laserteam
“Our photos were inspired by discord and girlish excess, the idea of young women draped in uber-femininity and doing things they wouldn’t or shouldn’t do: Sneaking out of the house, riding around town having fun on a Vespa, going on a motorcycle with an older boy, etc. Overall, we wanted to show girls breaking free on an adventure together.”
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Designer: Princess Lasertron Photographer: Bill Sitzmann Stylist: Rebecca Forsyth of Bangs Salon Location: The Dangerhole omahafashionweek.com
Team Awesome
“This collection conveys a sense of magic. The models looked like fairies, so we wanted to enhance and showcase that whimsy with this shoot. It seemed a perfect fit to have the models frolicking through a field, as if they were fairies, and the balloons added even more playfulness to this setting.� Designer: Jane Round
Photographer: Amy Lynn Straub
Stylist: Rebecca Culhane
Location: A field in Bellevue omahafashionweek.com
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sabrina jones designs
“I wanted to shoot at Joslyn Castle because of my affinity for bridal wear. The grounds of the castle have such a mystical feeling and the ornate detailing of the interior is art itself.� Designer: Sabrina Jones
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Photographer: Anthony Gaines
Stylist: Seven Salon
Location: Joslyn Castle
The Audipocalypse “We explored what fashion might be like if society and culture as we know it are lost. Our team focused on the themes of function, survival, tribalism, and the reinvention of culture as expressed by what people might wear in a post-apocalyptic urban environment.� Designer: Audio Helkuik
Photographer: Miguel Cedillo
Stylist: Sirens at the Loft
Location: North Downtown Omaha omahafashionweek.com
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SuShe&Tryon
“We were inspired by color, water and illusion. When these elements are combined along with natural beauty, they symbolize power, confidence and attractiveness.� Designer: Juantisha Christian for SuShe by J. Tracey
Photographer: T.Tryon Photography
Location: Joslyn Art Museum omahafashionweek.com
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Laserteam
“These photos were inspired by discord, the idea of young women draped in uber-femininity and doing things they wouldn’t or shouldn’t do: Sneaking out of the house, riding around town having fun on a Vespa, going on a motorcycle with an older boy, etc. all while wearing brightly colored Princess Lasertron dresses. We wanted to evoke a girly sort of excess.” Designer: Princess Lasertron Photographer: Bill Sitzmann Stylist: Rebecca Forsyth of Bangs Salon Location: Aunt Cathy’s Bedroom
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Blacksheep Just Because
“We were trying to achieve a sense of timeless sophistication; mixing elements of modern day fashion with old world style. We achieved this by putting the model in classically beautiful designs reminiscent of more genteel times, and then placing her in locales to support that mood.� Designer: Kate Walz
Photographer: Jim Lamb
Stylist: Jacki Witt Walz
Location: Hotel Deco omahafashionweek.com
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Ruffled Runway
“My inspiration for these photos came from simply wanting to capture the essence of these fabulous little girls. Dressed in their couture outfits, downtown Omaha provided the perfect place for them to climb, laugh, and be confident. The sculptures, Gene Leahy bridge and brick buildings created the pefect urban landscape to match their personality and style.� Designer: Hollie Hanash of Ruffled Runway
Photographer: Kathy Byers
Stylist: Bangs Salon
Location: Gene Leahy Mall omahafashionweek.com
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Dan Richters (& friends!)
“These garments have a fantastic, unworldly nature to them. We captured that feeling without disrupting the integrity of the garment, showing expertise and craftsmanship of the piece. Our model was a perfect fit, bringing innocence and uncertainty into the images.� Designer: Dan Richters
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Photographer: Daniel Muller
Stylist: Natalie Rose Dixon
Location: DP Muller Studio
Nuevintage Apparel & Accessories
“This line is entitled “Spirit of the Forest.” What better place to go back to shoot? I wanted fun and whimsical, so the idea came to me to create the indoors, out of doors in the woods and capture images that would have a sense of timelessness with an “Alice in Wonderland” sensibility.” Designer: Terri Jen Buckner for Nuevintage Apparel & Accessories Photographer: Hope Marie Jewel Stylist: Terri Jen Buckner Location: Louisville State Park omahafashionweek.com
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Pope/Headley
“This was our take on what “today, borrowing from yesterday’s glamour” could be. Tiffany Headley’s pieces give a sense of modernity, but they are also reminiscent of the past. The images set a mood but they let the observer connect with a feeling rather than read the details of a literal scene or location.” Designer: Tiffany Headley for Donna Faye Couture Photographer: Fred and Kim Pope Stylist: Fred and Kim Pope Location: Studio
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CREATIVE THREADS By Meghann Schense
A well-balanced blend of determination, artistic charm, and business savvy is the common thread between three local designers, evolving Omaha’s fashion scene one sketch, string and stitch at a time. Omaha is emerging as one of the country’s best-kept se-
ment through organizations like the Film Streams, Kaneko
crets in the fashion design world. As the economic decline
and Omaha Fashion Week. Omaha has enjoyed several top
began in 2008 and rocked both coasts, it only meandered
rankings for best places to live, best value, best city for
through the Midwest. The city’s latent creativity, strong
young professionals and best city to start a business. The
work ethic and increasing entrepreneurial confidence has
vibrant and accessible arts and cultural scene has certainly
brought outstanding new cultural and business opportu-
contributed to those rankings.
nities to the forefront. “The city is safe, but not too risk adverse. There is enough business here for everybody and
In terms of cultural outlets thriving within the city, Oma-
with such a strong spirit of collaboration the sum becomes
ha’s fashion community is quickly gaining ground. Three
bigger than its parts,” states Megan Hunt, a local fashion
creators within Omaha’s burgeoning fashion scene have
designer who is marketing her line under the name Prin-
transformed their passion for design into full-time pro-
cess Lasertron.
fessions. Williams Torres, Megan Hunt and Yolanda Diaz have all started businesses in Omaha revolving around
By establishing focal points within the community, Omaha
fashion design. Success for each designer has been mea-
has been able to nurture and increase cultural develop-
sured and established through multiple mediums.
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Recently opened his first tailoring store and design shop
Growing up in the Dominican Republic with a seamstress mother, Williams started out in the fashion industry in 1987 when the clothingmanufacturing market shifted from the United States to Central America. He worked for manufacturers who produced garments for clients such as Ann Taylor and Talbots. Williams paid close attention behind the scenes to both the design and operations aspects of the industry. “If I work hard under this rule for others success why wouldn’t I apply this same rule and hard work to my own business’ success?” said Williams.
accomplishing my goal. I plan to have a sewing studio to manufacture my designs myself here in Omaha and then to manufacture overseas.” Will Style Tailor Shop enables him to build his reputation as a tailor, designer and business owner while advancing his label all within the same four walls. “The business, the employees and the customer are the three things to keep happy; then success will follow.”
Williams’ design expertise radiates through an annual line of men and women’s formal wear he produces under the label, WILL STYLE. Williams gains inspiration from envisioning the end result. Participating in his third year at Omah Fashion Week, Williams will show a broad range from blazers to satin skirts. He hopes to communicate a more versatile use of his brand without sacrificing the integrity of quality. “The support in the community has allowed me to get my business going. Omaha Fashion Week has given me an outstanding professional and yet, free, platform to showcase my work.” Meanwhile, he is opening his own tailor shop and boutique located on 35th and Center. “This is the first stage of Photography by daniel Muller, AJ Brown, blinq studios
Williams Torres
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Focus on strong marketing and public relations strategies
Megan Hunt, a native Nebraskan, found that hype around her own wedding resulted in demand for her to reproduce her bridal look and style for others. What started as a hairpiece, felt floral bouquet and accessories business slowly budded into an empire that now spans international boundaries. With a persona that spreads far and wide, Megan speaks of growing her business into a lifestyle brand. She references television productions and a book series. Megan’s self promotion and business dexterity has enabled her to reach her target market with laser-like focus (no pun intended) and she now works with over 250 brides a year. Megan’s internet savvy and social networking capabilities have created a customer base in which nearly half are international. This is Megan’s second year at Omaha Fashion Week. Her newest collection will use colorful, washable, dyed organic cotton materials sourced out of New York. Megan hopes to convey the idea her designs are not specifically meant for weddings. Every girl can rock a Princess Lasertron original by choosing from a variety of fabrics, textures, silhouettes, colors and patterns. “I don’t believe that you have to live on the coasts or in a major city to get the attention of media or connect with mentors and role models in your industry. I know I’m an Omaha girl for life.
The low cost of living here leaves enough money for me to travel and do face-to-face work with major media contacts. I’m able to make a bigger impact in my community here locally with events like Omaha Fashion Week, Barcamp Omaha, Big Omaha, and all of the other amazing small businesses here who have a great vision for the future of our city.”
Photography by daniel Muller, AJ Brown, blinq studios
Megan Hunt
Photography by daniel Muller, AJ Brown, blinq studios
Yolanda Diaz The first OFW designer to commercially manufacture a collection Yolanda Diaz found Omaha to be the perfect location to launch her career as a designer. Raised in Chihuahua, Mexico, Yolanda started making her own clothes in high school, “I did not have enough money to buy clothes, so I started thinking about styles and how to make them cheaper to save money.” Yolanda began by selling small quantities to Omaha stores. She enjoys focusing on children’s clothing, thriving on the reactions she receives. “As a
designer I create comfortable, durable and fashionable pieces that impact the little girls and convince their moms to buy.” She works with a unique mindset built on designing for children’s functionality. Her sketches are simple, easy and absent of delicate embellishments. Yolanda draws insight for her lines from textiles. She travels to source and inspect the best materials. Her newest line, inspired by the 80s, was brought to life from a cotton/spandex blend of fabric she sourced out of Los Angeles. Commercial production of the line will start this January in Mexico will be ready for boutiques nationwide in Spring 2012. Yolanda is experiencing exceptional success with retailers in Miami where her colorful, lightweight fabric selections are in style all year long. Her longterm goal is to produce two lines each year under her label, Little Miss Fashion.
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VIP SPRING
RUNWAY SHOW RECAP Omaha Fashion Week kicked off the 2011 season with a VIP Spring Runway Show on March 19. The show featured 12 local designers who showcased a wide range of garments, from couture evening gowns to custom swimwear. For some of OFW’s veteran designers this was an opportunity to kick off plans for collections that would be shown in the fall. For others it was a chance to debut their creative prowess on the OFW runway. The result was a night of creativity, entertainment, and as always STYLE. If you weren’t able to make it, here is what you missed...
Kevin Steward
Jane Round
Photography by (LEFT, RIGHT) Bold and Kreative Photography, Village Photographer
DESIGNER
DESIGNER
DESIGNER
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Jessica Seeley omahafashionweek.com
DESIGNER
Shannon Hopp
DESIGNER
Chessna Fernald DESIGNER
Audi Kuiken
Photography by (LEFT TO RIGHT) Bold and Kreative Photography, Blacksheep, Bold and Kreative PhotographY
Chessna Fernald
DESIGNER
Kate Walz
Photography by (LEFT, RIGHT, TOP) Blacksheep, Bold and Kreative Photography, Bold and Kreative Photography
Photography by (LEFT, RIGHT) Bold and Kreative Photography, Village Photographer.
DESIGNER
DESIGNER
Kevin Steward
DESIGNER
Sabrina Jones
DESIGNER
Zara Gonzalez
DESIGNER
DESIGNER
Jessica Seeley
DESIGNER
Shannon Hopp
Photography by (LEFT, RIGHT) Village Photographer, Bold and Kreative Photography
Tiffany Headley
DESIGNER
Tiffany Headley
DESIGNER
Chessna Fernald
Photography by (LEFT TO RIGHT) Christine Elizabeth, Village Photographer, Blacksheep
DESIGNER
Audi Kuiken
Photography by (BOTTOM, TOP LEFT, TOP RIGHT) Christine Elizabeth, Blacksheep, Bold and Kreative Photography
Sabrina Jones
Photography by (LEFT, RIGHT) Bold and Kreative Photography, Bold and Kreative Photography
DESIGNER DESIGNER
Jane Round
DESIGNER
Emma Erickson
Photography by Lucas Marshall
Coming September 8, 2011
By Annie Kawamoto
Photography by G. Thompson Higgins DESIGNER Princess Lasertron
F ASHION’S NIGHT OUT Participating Omaha Fashion’s Night Out Boutiques: Old Market All About Me Boutique
Old Market Passageway 1030 Howard St. - allaboutmecb.us All About Autumn: Featuring Terri Lynn Creations and Surprise Discounts on Fresh Fall Fashions! Starts at 5 p.m.
cibola of Omaha
509 S. 11th St. - cibolasouthwest.com
Omaha joined the elite fashion capitals of New Curbside Clothing York, Milan, and London last year as a host city 505 S. 11th St. in Old Market of Fashion’s Night Out, an event founded by Curbsideclothing.com Starts at 7 p.m. Vogue Publisher, Conde Nast. Nouvelle Eve This after-hours shopping extravaganza was created to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence, boost the industry’s economy and put the fun back in shopping. On September 8, 2011 Omaha will once again join the world in celebrating Fashion’s Night Out. This year’s event includes a large selection of boutiques, salons, and restaurants located throughout the city. All will be keeping their doors open late into the night with special promotions, showcases, and hors d’oeuvres. So grab that shopping confidant and join the fashion community around the world in supporting local commerce, fashion, and all things stylish. See you there, bags in hand!
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1102 Howard Street - www.nouvelleeve.com Nouvelle Eve Celebrates Fashion’s Night Out Enjoy wine and light appetizers and save 20% on your entire purchase! Starts at 7 p.m.
The Flying Worm
1125 Jackson Street - www.omahavintage.com Fall out of Summer Sale! Come in and find your very favorite vintage tee for 20% off! Starts at 7 p.m.
Trocadero
1208 1/2 Howard Street www.shoptrocadero.com A Night of Style at Trocadero Enjoy music from DJ Mello Mic, makeovers by Fringes Salon, yummies from Stokes and Bliss Bakery, a mini bar by Liv Lounge, special giveaways and one-night-only deals!
West Omaha
Photography by Justin Limoges
Garment District
Midtown
The Shops of Legacy 16950 Wright Plaza #147 meshomaha.com Anniversary Party: Celebrating Two Years in Business! Starts at 4 p.m.
Togs
Roots & Wings
The Shops of Legacy 26950 Wright Plaza #155 what TO wear: Fall into great styles with 20% off your entire purchase!
Countryside Village - 8712 Pacific St. www.rootsandwingsomaha.com Starts at 6 p.m.
Photography by Evan Baumhofer
The Shops of Legacy 16939 Wright Plaza #114 SKYZBoutique.com Come Enjoy SKYZ blue martinis and special discounts and drawings throughout the store!
Rockbrook Village - 2947 South 108th St. www.chocolatepeacockboutique.com Chocolate and Fashion: Shoppers will enjoy chocolate desserts and wine plus 10% off everything in the store! Starts at 7 p.m.
Paperdoll Vintage Boutique
Rockbrook Village - 11015 Elm Street wwww.facebook.com/postandnickel Cocktails and Couture: Join us in our new space at Rockbrook Village for cocktails, appetizers, and couture! Starts at 7 p.m.
Sarah’s Boutique
Countryside Village - 8730 Pacific St. Sophisticated Fall Silhouettes: Margaritas, fun and 15% off one item
OFW Buyers Market
Scout: Dry Goods & Trade
Dundee - 5019 Underwood Ave. www.ilovescout.com Fashion Night Out! Super Awesomeness!!! Come see-lots of surprises & fun!
Nomad Lounge Old Market 1013 Jones St. 6 p.m.
Something catch your eye on the runway at Omaha Fashion Week? Now’s your chance to buy that oneof-a-kind piece, or commission a custom piece from a local designer! Join us for Omaha Fashion Week’s Buyers Market at Nomad Lounge during Fashion’s Night Out. Designers, dressing rooms and delicious champagne cocktails will be at the ready for a shopping experience you’ll never forget!
Official FNO Afterparty Starts at 9 p.m.
Photography by Lucas Marshall
Post & Nickel
Photography by Justin Limoges
6607 Maple Street - www.heypaperdoll.com Fall fashion will be flowing as will the wine! Specials and discounts you won’t want to miss! Starts at 7 p.m.
Photography by Justin Limoges
Photography by Justin Limoges
Mesh
SKYZ Boutique
Chocolate Peacock
Photography by Justin Limoges
The Shops of Legacy 16939 Wright Plaza, Suite 123 www.garmentdistrictomaha.com Garment District Presents: Fashion & Art Night Out! Fall fashions and abstract paintings! Enjoy 15% off entire purchase on this eve. and special order your painting by Omaha artist, Kelli Smith. Starts at 5 p.m.
FRESH FACES
DESIGNER
Ryan Dampf started Xion Clothing five years ago. He describes his collection as representing “urban renewal.” It features repurposed windbreakers, hooding, screenprinting, handmade jewelry and custom footwear.
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Photography by Wyn Wiley
Ryan Dampf
DESIGNER
Photography by Esoteric Velvet
Terri Jen Buckner
Terri is inspired by nature and believes in repurposing discarded items. Her collection features vintage furs and natural fibers in neutral tones. omahafashionweek.com
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DESIGNER
Angela is a UK native and Nebraska transplant who got her start in fashion at age 13. She uses unconventional materials like the pink bubble wrap pictured here, to produce a line of avant garde pieces. 36
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Photography by Esoteric Velvet
Angela Balderston
DESIGNER
Photography by Esoteric Velvet
Noah Riewer
This FIDM grad has worked in the fashion industry on both coasts and is currently pursuing his career in New York City. Noah is a Nebraska native and describes his collection as being “for a girl on the go�.
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DESIGNER DIRECTORY
We brought together an amazing creative team in late July to capture a sneak peek of what was in store for Omaha Fashion Week 2011.
designer
Maximillian Suiter
Maximillian J. Suiter is a senior at Brownell Talbot. His 2011 Omaha Fashion Week designs have a jeweled color-palette with a variety of textures. STYLED BY
Five Salon
CONTACT
masuiter@brownell.edu
Photography by Daniel Muller, Herb Thompson, Wyn Wiley, Lani Bresler, Dale Heise and Sarah Foster. Stylists Bangs Salon, T’eez Salon, Unique Visions, Gossip Hair ‘n Works and Sirens at the Loft.
MONDAY
designer
Jennifer Roberts
Stylishly Chic Allison D. Couture Maximillian Suiter Jennifer Roberts Toxic Sadie
Jennifer worked in the NYC Fashion Industry for several contemporary and leading labels. She is inspired by 60’s fashion and her collection features bold color combinations and geometric prints paired with florals.
Not Pictured: Stylishly Chic designer Lameesha Stuckey STYLED BY Five Salon
STYLED BY
CONTACT
Studio M Salon and Rain Salon
CONTACT
jar_26@hotmail.com
jabria84@yahoo.com
presented by
Allison D. Couture designer Allison Dutton
Toxic Sadie designer Erin Thomas
Allison is a 17 year-old Omaha native who designed her first dress in fourth grade. Her collection is inspired by her imagination.
Erin began designing garments at the age of 10. Today, she sells her unique swimwear around the world. Many of her suits feature materials found in exotic locales.
Rain Salon and Chyeanna Jenkins
STYLED BY
CONTACT www.wix.com/heyheyheyitsalliekaye/allison-dutton
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Rain Salon and Renae Scebold
STYLED BY
CONTACT
www.toxicsadie.com
TUESDAY Angela Balderston Emely Valadez Dancin Yogi Dominkat Just Because
Dancin Yogi designer Paddy Tarlton Paddy is an expert yoga instructor and has created a line of yoga-wear made popular by her self-titled “Paddy Pants”. Not only are they great for yoga they are also ideal for relaxing around the house.
presented by
CONTACT www.dancin yogi.com
designer
Angela Balderston
Dominkat designer Lee Cunningham
Angela is a UK native who got her start in fashion at age 13. She uses unconventional materials to produce a line of avant garde pieces. STYLED BY
Lee is a self-taught designer who began his work in 2004. His collection features a cyberindustrial look with neon paneling and LCD writing.
Fringes Salon
CONTACT angela.balderston@ yahoo.com
designer
Emely Valadez
Emely will be attending the Illinois Institute of Art for Fashion Marketing this winter. Her collection includes career wear, evening wear and dresses for women. STYLED BY
Salon Fushion
CONTACT valaezemily@ yahoo.com
STYLED BY
Fringes Salon
CONTACT
www.dominikat.com
Just Because designer Kate Walz Kate is working on her fourth collection for Omaha Fashion Week - and she’s 14 years old! Her collection features reversible skirts in satin and tulle, along with gowns featuring window pane skirting. STYLED BY
Bangs Salon
CONTACT
jackiewalz@msn.com
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WEDNESDAY Nuevintage Apparel & Accessories Jessica Alyse Kaleigh Moynihan REPIECED d0ll clothes Kotero presented by
designer
Kaleigh Moynihan
Kaleigh describes her line as, “machine gun meets sundress” and was inspired by the TV show Firefly. This line features a contrast between soft floral fabrics and tough outdoors fabrics. STYLED BY
Urbane Salon
CONTACT kmoynihan88@ hotmail.com
Nuevintage Apparel & Accessories designer Terri Jen Buckner
REPIECED designer Liz Moldenhauer Liz is inspired by quilt patterns, North American Indian clothing, 80’s music and recycled material. This year’s collection features jewel-toned matte/ satin variations in stripes.
Terri is inspired by nature and believes in repurposing discarded items. Her collection features vintage furs and natural fibers in neutral tones. STYLED BY
Sirens at the Lofts
STYLED BY
Tru Salon
CONTACT
www.nuevintage.com
CONTACT
www.repieced.com
Jessica Alyse designer Jessica Hansen
d0ll clothes designer Chessna Fernald
Jessica is debuting her first collection at Omaha Fashion Week with a line of bridal-wear. The collection features hand-made floral embellishments and traditional bridal fabrics of tulle, satin and lace.
Chessna is showing her third line in Omaha Fashion Week. The medical field inspired her most recent collection, which she calls “d0ll hospital”.
STYLED BY
Mary Beinor
CONTACT jesshansen4887@ yahoo.com
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Styled by
Fringes Salon
Contact facebook.com/ d0llclothesbychessna
Kotero designer Olajide Cooper
Ruffled Runway designer Hollie Hanash
Olajide is inspired by tribal designs and her collection takes its cue from the African aesthetic. Textures include hand-beading, rafia, and braiding.
Hollie designs clothing for the upscale mom who wants one-of-a-kind pieces for her daughter. Her collection features embroidery, altered arts and ruffles in easy-to-wash cottons and denims.
Styled by
Rare Salon
Contact
www.bykotero.com
Styled by
Bangs Salon
Contact www.mypouty princess.com
THURSDAY
designer
Masey Rost
Little Miss Fashion Ruffled Runway Masey Rost Seeley Designs WILL STYLE Princess Lasertron
Masey is a recent UNL grad studying textile and apparel design - she has been sewing since age 13. Masey’s collection is inspired by a man’s tuxedo shirt and features heavy use of pintucking and silicon embellishments. Collection includes jewelry from O.
presented by
Styled by
Sirens at the Lofts
Contact
maseyrost@gmail.com
Little Miss Fashion designer Yolanda Diaz
Seeley Designs designer Jessica Seeley
Yolanda shows both childrens wear and womens wear. She is preparing her first professional boutique collection for retail. Her collection is inspired by pre-hispanic clothing.
Former director of UNL’s “UNvieled” fashion show, Jessica has worked behind the scenes in fashion from NYC to Dallas. Her collection of separates takes a “modern-vintage” approach and features embroidery, printed linen and cotton fabrics, as well as brid
Styled by
T’eez Salon
Contact www.facebook.com/ littlemissfashion
Styled by
Cate Carothers of Salon K
Contact www.wix.com/jmseeley/ seeleydesigns
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WILL STYLE designer Williams Torres
Pastel GROOVE House designer Shamina Wiek
Williams was trained by Italian designers and tailors and graduated from UTESA in the Dominican Republic. His collection features quality craftsmanship in classic designs for men and women.
Shamina’s collection is for girls 15-20 who want to stand out. Her collection is inspired by the 80’s and bright colors and incorporates bold patterns.
Styled by
Gloss Salon and Spa
Contact
www.willstyleboutique.com
Contact www.myspace.com/ pastelgroovehouse
Princess Lasertron designer Megan Hunt
Shawntelle Kuhlman
designer
Princess Lasertron, also known as Megan Hunt, is a designer, blogger, and best friend. Her trademark combination of handcrafted design and business prowess with a dash of magic has earned her cult celebrity status in the wedding industry. Styled by
Shawntelle is a fashion design graduate of the Art Institute in Fort Lauderdale. Her collection features tailored men’s wear in a western/ punk style and elegant women’s wear featuring beads and crystals. Styled by
In the Master’s Hands
Contact www.facebook.com/ shawntellekulhmann
Bangs Salon
Contact www.princess lasertron.com
FRIDAY Pastel GROOVE House Joi Joison Shawntelle Kuhlman Xion SuShe by J.Tracy
Not Pictured: designer Joi Joison Styled by BUNGALOW/8 Contact j.france.s@hotmail.com presented by
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Xion designer
Ryan Dampf
Ryan started Xion Clothing five years ago and is a newcomer to OFW. He describes his collection as representing “urban renewal”. It features repurposed windbreakers, hooding, screenprinting, handmade jewelry and custom footwear. Styled by
Fringes Salon
Contact
www.xionclothing.com
SuShe by J.Tracy designer Juantisha Christian
designer
Juantisha has been creating custom pieces for clients since 2008. This collection of separates is inspired by 70’s glam and has an ethereal sensibility. Styled by
T’eez Salon
Contact
www.sushebyjtracey.com
Dan’s designs are intended to create an experience for the viewer - he treats the runway like a stage for his imagination. His concept-rich designs demonstrate how fashion becomes art. Styled by
Seven Salon
Contact
www.danrichters.com
SATURDAY Donna Faye Couture Dan Richters Buf Reynolds Radioactive Heart Little Miss Fashion Threaded, Inc. KKINI & Elisa Ilana Emma Erickson Audio Helkuik I Design with Love Jane Round Noah Riewer Sabrina Jones Designs
Dan Richters
designer
Buf Reynolds
Buf creates elegant collections of evening gowns in sumptuous fabrics - luxurious draping is her hallmark. Her collection is inspired by a dear friend who has moved on to the other side.
Not Pictured: Threaded, Inc. designer Kevin Steward Styled by Fringes Salon Contact ksteward921@ gmail.com
Styled by
KKINI & Elisa Ilana Contact www.kkini.com and www.elisailana.com designer
Sirens at the Lofts
Contact www.facebook.com/ bufreynolds
presented by
Donna Faye Couture designer Tiffany Headley
Radioactive Heart designer Jennie Mason
Tiffany combines an avant garde edge with a tinge of retro to her styles, harkening back to the days of classical Hollywood glamour. Her inspirations come from classical art, graffiti, film noir and pop culture.
Jennie’s collections celebrate beauty in life’s imperfections - often you will find unconventional materials incorporated into her designs. Her 2011 line is inspired by the colors, shapes and textures of insects.
Styled by
BUNGALOW/8
Contact donnafaye.th@ gmail.com
Styled by
Sirens at the Lofts
Contact www.radioactive heart.com
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designer
Emma Erickson
Emma Erickson graduated from the Academy of Art University with a BFA in Fashion Design. She interned with the Herve Leger by Max Azria (BCBG) design team immediately after graduation and now creates custom pieces for clients out of her Omaha workroom. Contact
www.emmaerickson.com
designer
designer
Jane Round began designing and creating clothing, inspired by the 1920s and 50s, in 2009. She has participated in many local fashion shows around Omaha. Samples and custom designs can be ordered by email. Styled by
designer
Audio creates clothing for people who are comfortable standing out. She has a high standard for quality and craft and creates garments with a costume twist. Her 2011 collection is circusinspired ready-to-wear. Sirens at the Lofts
Contact
www.audiohelkuik.com
I Design with Love designer Amanda Clark Amanda is a sustainable designer. She only makes clothing out of eco-friendly or recycled/found materials. Her new collection is inspired by the uniqueness of street fashion, and overcoming life’s obstacles to become a stronger, better person. Anna Evans-Bayer, Nancy Sell, Michelle Beran and Ashley Ogle
Styled by
Contact www.idesignwith love.com
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Bangs Salon
Contact www.facebook.com/ janerounddesigns
Audio Helkuik
Styled by
Jane Round
Noah Riewer
Noah designs for the “girl on the go” and has worked on both coasts. A Nebraska native, he is currently pursuing his fashion career in New York City. Styled by
T’eez Salon
Contact fashionablyfly007@ yahoo.com
Sabrina Jones Designs designer Sabrina Jones Stapp Sabrina is know for her beautiful corsetry and historically inspired garments. Her 2011 line explores the feminine, graceful silhouettes of the 1950s - complete with full skirts, accessories and nipped waists. Styled by
Seven Salon
Contact
sabrinajonesdesigns.net