Sacramento is paving the way for all areas of artistic development. Sac Fashion Week definitely continued the expansion of artistic representation, adding a sleek twist to everyday looks and teasing what to see for the upcoming spring/summer season.

With a mix of varying structures, copious amounts of accessories and attitude reflective of Sacramento’s community and culture, these 10 pieces illustrated the beauty and niche of Sac Fashion Week’s spring/summer collection.

1. This first fit was by Thimoleon Rodriguez, who stated that his inspiration for his collection was New York. In turn, this specific piece was a nod toward the sights and sounds of New York. A deep-V neckline complements the chic, gold metallic romper with subtle animal prints on the leg and collar of the outfit. It’s shaggy but profound. The model’s dreaded hair in a high ponytail with darkened pink eyelids played on the dark and grungy aspects of the Big Apple. There’s something to be said about the juxtaposition between a more bohemian hairstyle paired with a loose-fitting, yet daring romper. This piece was seen within the first couple minutes of the show, and for good reason.

2. Rodriguez also paired frilly pieces and pops of numerous colors in his collection, which were recognized in this next piece. Rodriguez used the same metallic patterning, as well as a deepened neckline from the previous outfit to create a menswear look on top of a nude tulle skirt. Having a nude undertone with sheer fabric perfectly accentuates the varying sequined patches, with a sheer black belt to cinch the waist. As menswear has taken off in the world of fashion, seeing something rather bold and eccentric on top of an otherwise feminine frame serves as testament to Rodriguez’s unique sense of fashion.

3. In Angela De Forsage’s collection, this female designer was inspired by various cultures. De Forsage focused on easy-to-wear pieces, large head and hand pieces, wigs and bright colors. This specific piece was a nod at cultural and geographical landscapes; the styling of the dress complemented the model’s body in picturesque quality. The flow of colors down her frame accentuated the meticulous detailing on the dress.

4. There’s something both striking and theatrical about the use of symmetry in fashion. Hagen Valencia achieved that with his collection by way of his choice of models: twins. Valencia plays on varying textures and prints, and then layered them to create shapes and silhouettes that mirror one another as a whole, but differ in design within his look. Inside paneling teases a pop of color, while the rest of both of these outfits were subtly, monotonously chaotic. While Valencia’s use of monochromatic colors lies in the background of his designs, the use of checkered print mixed with a sleek 1920s inspired hairstyle complements Valencia’s design concept, one after another.

5. Janelle Cardenas showed off a mini-version of her collection—a kid’s line! In this look, Cardenas combined a warm, earthy, ‘60s-style, Twiggy-inspired Go Go dress with a black frill neckline, knee-high socks and funky fur-covered sneakers to create a style that any age could rock! Cardenas seemed to focus on this with all her children’s looks; they were age-appropriate, but also functional for varying personalities and styles. The colors within this look allowed the model’s olive skin tone to pop, and the choice of a feminine bow settled in her hair (as in all of Cardenas’ looks) added a touch of youthfulness to an edgy twist on a retro, fashion-forward look.

6. Zenzele Nuru truly hit the mark on a different concept. Nuru’s choice of knit textiles in varying concepts was stunning and uncommon. Nuru’s line was seen in the spring/summer Fashion Show on Friday, Feb. 24, using a mix of dynamic colors and utilizing creative ways to deliver what is crochet knit. This piece was stunning on the white runway, as well as on the model. The purple tones really defined the raw texture of Nuru’s designs, resulting in an extremely unique way to mold diligent creativity into an everyday piece. The wide-necked design on the clavicle sold the piece as an outstanding way to wear something traditionally seen as a hobby. The touch of buttons, the glitter within the crochet pattern and a bronze choker stand out against the textures covering the model’s body.

7. The ‘20s flapper influence, yes! Nuru also paired feather with her knit pieces. As seen in this look, the masquerade-enhanced black dress worked perfectly with the ambiance of the show. The sheer top enhanced the daring concept of her textile—nothing appeared lined. The dramatic wig creates a composed, yet mysterious overall look to this piece. The feathering on the bottom of the dress matches the fun swing to the model’s wig. A small black arm band and dark lips gave ravishing playfulness to this concept.

8. The continual creative concepts Nuru came up with were pleasantly overwhelming. In this look, Nuru added a three-dimensional piece as headwear to her line. The abstract shape shielding her model’s face added dimension to her collection’s textures. Nuru used a bushel of cool colors to frame the arm, adjacent to a rope belt she placed around the model’s waist. The feminine and mysterious quality of these three details were striking on the runway, while the muted color-scheme portrayed animalistic portrait views.

9. Hannah Be, the final designer of Sac Fashion Week, incorporated multiple eras into her collection. This outfit pulled distinguishable 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s looks into one piece that was truly remarkable, but also similar to what we’re seeing in stores around the country. Greyish blue disk earrings complemented the enormous ‘70s mod sunglasses, which were further accentuated by the model’s short pixie cut (love!). The additional mix of ‘80s moto jacket, mustard-yellow socks and a herringbone handkerchief top and skirt gave a tremendous nod to many notable looks from the past 30 years.

10. The flat top. Yes, the flat top. Be styled another boisterous piece, pairing ‘70s plaid detailing with ‘90s, well, everything else. The vibrancy and tones of Be’s green tight-fitting top paired with a brash and wonderfully gaudy choker set the mood for her entire collection. The use of high-waisted yellow shorts resembles an outfit you’d find Will Smith wearing on set in 1995. Be’s use of gender-neutral pieces made for an array of outfits and vibes that are seen in popular trends of today. Be paired obnoxiously chunky spiked heels on top of socks that read so well and so fierce to the crowd. Lastly, there’s a slight tribal motif added to this kick-ass outfit. An enlarged septum piercing and a bronzed, rectangular, elephant-embellished neck piece drew added attention (if possible) to this look. Be kicked it up a notch, closing out the spring/summer portion of Sac Fashion Week.

The multitude of differing looks among designers is what made Sac Fashion Week different, but expressive to the state of a progressive city and its ever-growing art scene. Sac Fashion Week aimed for rich, detailed collections. While nostalgic and futuristic in its influences, the seven designers and their works in the spring/summer showcase did not fall short.

Sac Fashion Week is evidence of Sacramento’s growth. We’re all here for it.

**This piece first appeared in print on pages 14 – 15 of issue #261 (March 12 – 26, 2018)**

Now entering its 12th year, Sacramento Fashion Week aims to amplify the talents of local designers, models and photographers, along with hair and makeup professionals, all while promoting the area’s fashion, beauty and arts industries. This year there are seven official SFW events spread out between Feb. 18–24 at various venues around town. There is everything from a Model Bootcamp (Feb. 18), to a Hair and Makeup Workshop (Feb. 19), to a Fashion on Film event (Feb. 22), to two different Designer Showcases for both Spring/Summer looks (Feb. 23) and Fall/Winter looks (Feb. 24). Some of the events are free to attend, some will require a ticket, so you’ll want to visit Sacfashionweek.com or follow them on social channels (@SacFashionWeek) for a full rundown of the week’s schedule and details about which designers and artists will be featured. If you want to immerse yourself in the local fashion and beauty industries, Sacramento Fashion Week is your best shot, so don’t miss out.

**This write-up first appeared in print on page 12 of issue #259 (Feb. 12 – 26, 2018)**

Sacramento seems to be covered in art these days. Sacramento Fashion Week was no exception.

Dressed-to-impressed spectators swarmed the historic industrial space of Sacramento’s Railyards for the 11th annual exposition of local garment designers’ unbridled creativity. Fashion designers, photographers, models and hair and makeup artists collaborated to create inspired visual stories that encouraged their audience with aspirational, yet accessible, wearable art. Proceeds from Sac Fashion Week were dedicated to Wind Youth Services this year, which is an organization that provides assistance to youth experiencing homelessness.

Working with local higher education institutions to develop talent, Sac Fashion Week is a platform that allows local aspiring designers to gain real-world experience in being a part of a large-scale fashion event.

Eshonna Trice | Photo by Glenn Jones

Scatha G. Allison | Photo by Igor Kondrya

Says Scatha G. Allison, designer of the gothic glamour line Miss Velvet Cream, humbly, “I am very particular about the models I work with … and I spend time with the models, as we collectively create the vision from idea to reality. The models are the diamonds of the collection—they make the work shine bright, so they need to feel the story and see the idea of the entire collection, as well as understanding their own part in it. For the SACFW show, all of my models were absolutely amazing. They were unique and receptive, they listened and connected as a whole to the vision.”

Lisa Lo | Photo by Igor Kondrya

Lace, sheer, paisley, floral and flowy forms were thematic in Friday night’s Spring/Summer Showcase. The color palette was dominated by red, white, black and midnight blue. On Saturday night, the Fall/Winter Showcase was a mix of mustard, black, white, burgundy and gold. Eshonna Trice, Hagen Valencia and Thimoleon Rodriguez were among the designers that unveiled their hard work at the Railyards. Here, Hagen Valencia’s collection, comprised of male ensembles, was juxtaposed with Eshonna Trice and Thimoleon Rodriguez’s gender-bending, hardcore, romantic, ‘70s-inspired and sheer pieces. Models stormed down the runway with swishes of mesh, sways of form-hugging fabric, sleek hair and unflinching game faces.

Hagen Valencia | Photo by Henry Huynh

Friday night’s zeitgeist Spring/Summer Showcase was followed by Saturday night’s forward-thinking Fall/Winter Showcase, but the whole week was lit with events at various locations, including a Launch and Boutique Showcase at Masonic Temple, Fashion Forum at the Art Institute of California, Model Bootcamp at Barbizon Modeling School, Emerging Next Showcase at Old Sacramento’s Holiday Inn, and Fashion on Film, hosted by Beatnik Studios. Fashion on Film blended movie magic with live fashion, and featured designers such as LOVE by Janelle Cardenas, De Lore/Yummy Honey, Christy Jahleah Jalou and Lataiya Gohlar. At Emerging Showcase, designers included Tatiana Gomeniuk, Oxana Artemencova, Janette Goss, Rong Ben, Manlin Song, Ceceil Lee and Lacey Taylor.

Saphaktra Touch | Photo by Igor Kondrya

Saphaktra Touch was born in Cambodia and came to the United States when she was 6 years old. Her Saloeut Spring Collection was inspired by vintage Hollywood glamor. “Sacramento Fashion Week 2017 was my first fashion show as a designer,” she said. “It turned out to be a large scale project that required extensive planning, timely execution and many late hours sewing to create 15 gowns.” For her first rodeo, Saphaktra Touch brought thoughtful execution and creativity to the table, in spite of the atmosphere of last-minute chaos, and somehow evoked a flowy, carefree feeling with her audience.

“Backstage was the place where all elements came together, some just moments before the show; models, makeup and gowns,” she went on to say. “Five minutes before runway, I was still making some final adjustments to get everything just right. It was an intense experience, but rewarding at the end as well.” As the models confidently stepped onto the runway, you’d never know the chaos from which they’d just emerged backstage.

The rewards of hard, creative work, can be endlessly fruitful. Of her design process, Allison said, “Sometimes, an idea takes so much more time to be constructed than it appears in a sketch. The pattern and shape of pieces around the body, the ruffles, the layers and fabrics coming together, the ornamentation, appliqués and details, some of which are not evident until you look closer—all of these take time and attention. However, when a piece comes together, I can feel it, and it is a uniquely satisfying moment … This is the nature of the creative process.”

Sacramento, you so artsy.

Thimoleon Rodriguez | Photo by Henry Huynh

Signature Styles

Over the past few years, Sacramento has grown into what I lovingly refer to as “A City of Weeks.” We’re always eager to support local businesses and artisans by attending hour-long, day-long or even week-long extravaganzas based around some of our favorite things: cocktails, beer, coffee and food (I’m lookin’ at you, Bacon Week). And as it celebrated its 10th year, Sacramento Fashion Week was no exception.
Launched in 2006 as a way to highlight and bridge gaps between the fashion industry and emerging designers, models and stylists, SACFW has provided an opportunity for newcomers to work alongside seasoned professionals, gain exposure and stimulate the economic growth of Sacramento fashion. Similar to New York Fashion Week, SACFW was a seven-day event with daily forums, boutique shows, model boot camps and beauty workshops all in the spirit of high fashion. The end of the week was the culmination of these events, with showcases featuring looks from each season.

I was honored to attend the weekend Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter showcases, which were located in a warehouse across from a strip club on Richards Boulevard (yeah, I thought that was weird, too, but it worked out), feeling slightly silly in my vintage blouse with a discreet coffee stain and a blazer that was Target circa 2010—nonetheless I was eager to see what the designers had in store for me. After I snagged a few delicious mini cupcakes and macarons generously provided by Ettore’s, I soaked in the weekend’s festivities and came up with a list of the top 10 looks. Sorry I ate all the sweets, guys. Kind of…

It did not take long to realize why Ettore’s had a delicious set-up of free cupcakes and macarons in the lounge area. Not only were they sponsors for SACFW, they also collaborated with the first designer of the Spring/Summer showcase, Yennie Zhou, to create a dress and headpiece made of layers of sugar flowers and macarons. Modeled by none other than the wife of Ettore himself, Meggan Rush-Ravazzolo, this elaborate and corseted dress was an architectural masterpiece and perhaps the star of the entire weekend. And let me just say: it takes a bold woman to balance a massive cake on her head. While not a functional piece, the dress resonated with what the MC, Bethany Crouch, said during the intermission on Friday, “If you’re wearing it, own it.”

Nina Brown’s “Brownskin” line of stretchy retro-inspired sportswear wowed me with the way she played up the Pantone Colors of the Year for 2016—pink (“rose quartz”) and blue (“serenity”). I absolutely loved this pink jumpsuit with a halter strap and white and blue sashes tied to the waist. It brought to mind a ‘70s roller rink on a Friday night. Her other pieces were made of similar color tones and open necklines, making me eager
for summer.

As they energetically sashayed down the runway, GoldMark had an array of fun pieces that somehow managed to make burlap look comfortable enough to dance the night away while wearing. While the piece I chose here is not a dress, I can see dancing the night away in these cream silk trousers with the colorful wrap blouse. The long train accentuated the model’s movements and created a vision of the carefree spirit and the designer’s mission: to find inspiration in the parts of life least expected.

Daniel Laukat’s line made me gasp. And I’m not the type to get all bleary eyed over a dress, but his stunning wedding frocks drummed up some serious nostalgia for me; they reminded me of … my grandma. Each piece was delicately upcycled from heirloom laces and fabrics—it was as though every model was wearing their grandmother’s gown from the ‘20s. With a modern fit and whimsical flower pattern, this gown is highlighted by a fringed and perfectly draped shawl. I said I would never get married, but if it means getting to wear one of Laukat’s dresses, I don’t know … any takers?

Francis Wright, aka “The Queen’s Chair,” delighted me with these high-waisted pants made from heavy and ornate fabric that reminded me of the decorator fabrics in San Francisco’s garment district that I could never afford, but drooled over anyway. The deep hues were accentuated with a gauzy, sheer top that creates a unique silhouette, and perhaps the best feature of this outfit was the accessory: an oversized red bag that begs to be taken on a weekend adventure on the railways.

Latiya Gholar’s line featured stunning pieces that combined Islamic cultural dress with American cultural dress. The women were covered from head to toe in fabulously movable fabrics ranging from peaches and creams to bold reds and blacks, each accented with gathered silk gloves. As they drifted and danced around each other like graceful swans, I couldn’t help but be drawn to the mesmerizing piece here in airy layers of creamy fabrics, accentuated by a golden belt and shimmery accents; the traditional hijab was modernized with pearl beads that made the wearer seem like a beautifully mysterious princess.

Just when I thought I couldn’t be more surprised by the theatrical nature of a dress made of confections, Lena Trotsko’s line took the runway by storm—all of her pieces were inspired by Malificent. Models were transformed into the mistress of evil, with long black hair perfectly twisted upward toward the sky to form those iconic horns. The hair and makeup may have been whimsical, but the pieces themselves were elegant and functional; flowing black evening gowns, fitted silk cocktail dresses and feathered bustiers in deep purples and blues were complemented by dramatic capes. While I would wear any of these pieces, the one I loved the most was this gorgeous floor-length purple dress where dark meets light: the deep purple contrast of the dramatic neckline contrasted with the soft purple pleated skirt striped down the middle. While the feather headdress isn’t necessarily great for every day, this ensemble would be a showstopper at any cocktail party. Cape optional.

Mai Vang’s line was one of the most ready-to-wear of the Fall/Winter showcase, with sporty asymmetrical frocks that could easily be taken from the office to a night on the town. In intense primary blues, each piece had delicate appliqué flowers playfully accentuating the necklines and hems. The dress I chose featured one of the details that I noticed throughout the weekend’s showcases: playful necklines and peephole shoulders. I loved the way the flowers added an extra feminine touch to this springy dress.

Jumpsuits aren’t going anywhere. They’re versatile, easy to wear and can be worn year-round when paired with the right accents. So I loved the way Karisa Gold put her own elegant spin on the pant jumpsuit with wide legs and a high neckline. This piece was all business in the front and a party in the back with a deep V-cut and side cut that lent a nice feminine balance to the tailored masculine silhouette and long leg.

While most of the designers stuck to primary colors and textures, Eshonna Trice offered a breath of fresh air with her line of pixelated color block prints and fearlessly hip-hugging dresses that made me swoon. The color block dress I chose had unique mesh panel arms that truly accentuate and celebrate curves. Black leather gloves added a little extra sass to the splashes of color this look brought to the showcase.

Looks in the Crowd at Sacramento Fashion Week 2014

New York. London. Paris. Sacramento? From Feb. 16 to 22, 2014, the fashion set descended upon our fair city with a week-long celebration that included parties, catwalks and fashion. Since 2006, Sacramento Fashion Week has aspired to challenge the notion that the industry is an elitist enclave where only the likes of the Anna Wintours, Andre Leon Talleys and Tom Fords of the world dare to roam. This challenge to the establishment was in full swing at this year’s launch party at MIX Downtown on Feb. 16, 2014, where the heaving crowd of industry powerhouses, local models, photographers, designers and budding fashionistas mixed and mingled over cocktails, music and, of course, fashion.

On the heels of the packed house at the launch party, the week included several industry events centered around all things fabulous: hair and makeup demonstrations; a social media workshop for enterprising bloggers; an event showcasing the collective talents of the film and fashion worlds; a sold-out showcase of hot, local boutiques; and culminated with the spring/summer and fall/winter fashion shows at the California Auto Museum on Feb. 21 and 22, respectively. With a nod to the eclectic and diverse range of stylistas in the region, Submerge strutted out into the fashion foray and met some of the stylish denizens of the River City—proving Sacramentans can truly work it.

Kathy Chakukuma / Mixing patterns with vibrant pops of color, Chakukuma is the definition of Sacramento chic. Wearing a graphic tank from H&M paired with a skirt from the Target’s latest high-profile designer collaboration with Peter Pilotto—yes, she stayed up late just to snag a piece from the collection after having learned the lessons from the feeding frenzy that was the Missoni-Target collab, which completely sold out in a matter of hours—this fashion-forward look combines soft sculptural shapes with edgy accessories in bright yellow and pink. A recent graduate of the criminal justice program at Sacramento State, this style maven says that being able to network with those who love fashion just as much as she does is the highlight of her Sacramento Fashion Week experience. “It’s nice to be in the same room with people that love what I love.”

Porter Womble / Proving that an everyday, casual look can be just as fierce as a three-piece, bespoke suit from London’s famed Savile Row, this menswear look Womble’s rocking is a mix of classic Americana and school-boy chic. A study in how to transform a plaid shirt, jeans and a backpack into a look that oozes laid-back chic, Womble works the room of industry leaders with ease. Sourcing pieces from Old Navy, Target and Levi’s, this American River College fashion student exudes a boyish charm that inexplicably blends with the high-fashion crowd mingling about the room. A Sacramentan by way of San Francisco, Womble has immersed himself in the local fashion scene and is thrilled to be a part of the emerging world of Sacramento style. “I work in retail in fashion, and I’m trying to break through in the fashion industry… I realized there is a scene here—I didn’t know we had a scene.”

Lashawn Smith / An aspiring stylist who recently transitioned from a career in the law to pursue her passion for fashion after realizing she’d rather provide her friends and colleagues with fashion tips than legal tips, Smith radiates in a Forever 21 dress in jade and silk headband and styles it all with a bright pink collar from Francesca in San Francisco. As a retail associate at Banana Republic, she bears witness to the evolving fashion world in Sacramento and is invigorated and inspired by its evolution. Her confidence that the local scene is coming into its own is matched only by her ability to elevate a simple frock from a bargain fashion house into a look that exudes a decidedly ’60s vibe while managing to come off fresh and modern. “I love fashion. I love putting weird things together.”

Emetrius “Meechie” Hunter / After having experienced the grandiose convergence of celebrities, fashion editors and models upon the stateside Mecca of fashion (Mercedes Benz Fashion Week during the 2012 collections), this dapper dandy is a full-on fashionista and stuns in an all-black ensemble. Working the room in vintage Ray Ban shades, a crisp pair of Armani trousers and a black H&M shirt littered with glimmering sequins and layered under a Kenneth Cole blazer in sumptuous velvet, this world traveler and self-identified “military brat” dabbles in styling and says fashion is something he embraces every day. And while it’s his first experience with Sacramento Fashion Week, and he was surprised one existed at all, Hunter says he’s impressed by the level of fashion on display.

Lindsay Brent / Embracing one of the trends that dominated the runways during the fall 2013/14 fashion shows, Brent luxuriates in her latest fashion find, the epitome of opulence—the fur vest. Her glammed-up look is completed with understated black “skinnies,” a black top and her L.A.M.B. bag in tow. The local stylist, fashion researcher and writer proudly announced that her furry frock was procured from a recent shopping expedition on the vintage fashion ecommerce website, NastyGal, while the other pieces were found at Nordstrom and Urban Outfitters. Brent, who studies fashion at American River College, says local fashion is all about the unexpected and appreciates the diversity of style that is found in Sacramento.

Caitlen Schmidt / Proving that some of the best fashion finds come from treasures unearthed not from the racks of big department stores but rather from those small boutiques that possess some of those one-of-a-kind items, Schmidt wears a wool coat festooned with blue and navy dots that was gifted to her by her grandmother. A shock of bright blue peeks out from under the three-quarter sleeved jacket, giving the look depth and a vivid pop of color. A black handbag adorned with gold studs provides the outfit with an edgy vibe while her elegant black slacks keep the look grounded. Schmidt, who also studies fashion at American River College, has been working tirelessly with the Sacramento Fashion Week production team in preparation of the big fashion shows on Friday and Saturday and says that when people profess that Sacramentans don’t have style that they’re just not looking in the right places. “I love the fashion here, it’s all around. It’s even in small community colleges.”

Alena Melnik / A photographer and fashion assistant, Melnik brings a dash of European flavor to Sacramento Fashion Week. With most of her outfit sourced from stores in London and Latvia, Melnik’s look borrows heavily from vintage ‘80s elements. Her black blazer, a vintage piece found in the recesses of her mother’s closet is a one of those foundation pieces that should be a part of everyone’s fashion repertoire. Proving that the liquid legging is still in fashion, a find Melnik credits to JCPenny, the shock of green paired with a nest of pearl baubles draped about her neck, the look is refined yet edgy. Melnik, who is currently working on a line of vintage-style maxi skirts, says that while this is her first foray in the world that is Sacramento Fashion Week, she’s been impressed by the level of fashion on display.

Kayla Carriker / Part of the Sacramento Fashion Week production team, Carriker mixes hard and soft elements in her look—each piece a product of her years working at Loehmann’s before its sad demise. A black, cropped leather jacket with quilted sleeves hangs over a top in a rich eggplant hue. While minimalist in scope, her look is amped up with fun and funky accessories: a necklace constructed of black tiles and her black bag adorned with spikes gives the look a punch that elevates the entire ensemble. Her elegant hair and makeup stand up to the strong elements in her look. As one who is on the front lines of Sacramento Fashion Week as a part of the media and public relations force, Carriker says that Sacramento fashion is really coming into its own and people are really bringing it this week. “Fashion has definitely grown a lot. Midtown has evolved from casual looks into people really getting into fashion. It’s great to see the change.”

Caitlin Robb / Another member of Sacramento Fashion Week’s production team, Robb’s look is minimalist yet completely chic. A white silk tunic drapes elegantly over a pair of black leggings that are tucked into a pair of classic leather riding boots. A staple in any fashionista’s closet, an archetypal Louis Vuitton tote hangs effortlessly off of her delicate shoulder as she makes her rounds networking with the models, photographers and other fashionable Sacramentans. The J Crew visual merchandiser who is a part of the crew in charge of staging the runway shows says that Sacramento Fashion Week is evolving and continues to surprise her every year as more and more people embrace the concept that one doesn’t have to live in New York, Los Angeles or Milan to experience amazing fashion or be a part of the fashion world. “The fashion scene is growing, it’s getting bigger. A lot of people are making fashion happen here.”

Tanner Stymeist / An actor who recently transitioned from the stage to film, Stymeist’s style is a mix of old-world charm and modernity. As a working actor in the industry for more than five years, he’s seen the marriage of film and fashion and thinks the two worlds are a natural fit. His olive trousers are a subtle foundation for the dusty blue Henley shirt strapped down by a pair of grey and black snappy suspenders. And while he isn’t a slave to fashion he says he’s always been fond of creating his own style and employs a casual yet elegant philosophy to the manner in which he dresses. For Stymeist the thrill of dressing comes from the process of creating a unique look that blends personal style with elements that draw from the style of a bygone era. “I’ve always loved the ‘20s and ‘30s and the clothes from that time. I just love that era and that feel.”

Ladies, have you ever looked onto the Internet to browse new makeup and hairstyle trends only to find yourself totally overwhelmed? It happens to the best of us; we search for a few simple tricks to revamp our style and revive our skin, and before we know it we’re putting mayonnaise in our hair because some random site told us to! Legitimate beauty tips are hard to come across, and some even harder to pull off. Thankfully, Allure Salon and Spa is here to make it a little easier. On Thursday, Feb. 27, 2014 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Allure will be holding a free Hair and Makeup Workshop at their salon at 815 16th Street! The Sacramento Fashion Week’s official salon, Allure will be dishing all fashion’s latest beauty trends and awesome tips for care and maintenance. Great tips, trend education and a guaranteed amazing time at a salon and spa for free? Ladies, this isn’t something you wanna pass up. Put the hair mayo mask away and check out Sacfashionweek.com/hair-makeup-workshop for more information.

Sacramento Fashion Week’s designer showcase hints at the season to come

The catwalk at the Elks Tower Ballroom had been dominated by the sexy, the doll-like and the glamorous up to this point.

Designer: Amanda Chan

Now the energy in the room had taken an unexpected turn, when, one after the other, a sequence of models took to the stage, each wearing a different shade of the same sleeveless, A-line dress with the same unblinking, empty stare. The clicking of camera shutters and flashes doubled in speed. Mysterious classical music guided the models in their solemn walk down the runway, each one wearing a maroon, sky blue, tangerine orange or pink dress with flats. Atop their stiff shoulders rested oversized wire or wooden cages confining their arms and necks. Some of the cages were crafted from Jenga-like wooden blocks, while others were wire-wrapped, strung with bits of moss or glass baubles.

Designer: Amanda Chan

This was local designer Amanda Chan’s line, ZuBauen, closing the first night of Sacramento Fashion Week’s designer showcase. Sacramento designers brought color and flair to the showcase at the ballroom Friday night; however, no designer statement had been more artistically profound than Chan’s.

For about two hours, models strode on the runway beneath high ceilings and chandeliers, flanked by rows of chairs on either side, not an empty seat in sight. To the left, booths filled with VIP guests hung overhead.

Designer: Caren Templet

In addition to Chan, the evening featured designs by Caren Templet, Dee Aguilar, Michael Lopez, Gina Kim, Janelle Cardenas, Nelli Rosh, Casey Sue and Jocelynn Brown.

If the designer showcase was a realistic projection of what is in store for women’s fashion this spring and summer, then expect a lot of trousers, high-waist pants, short dresses and skirts, drape-y tops and tailored blouses and jackets.

Take Lopez’s line, for instance. In a light, dreamy presentation, his models appeared doll-like and delicate, in soft colors and feminine cuts. They donned high-waist trousers and silky skirts, with collared-tops, floral prints and lace-up, heeled boots.

Designer: Jocelynn Brown

Brown’s pieces reminded that spring is upon us, drawing from a pastel palette of colors. Her designs were sweet and lighthearted, incorporating blouses, shorts and knee-length dresses. One model appeared in a baby blue top tucked into high-waist yellow shorts, another appeared in a sea green blouse with high-waist baby blue trousers, and yet another appeared in a lavender cap-sleeve blouse with a knee-length skirt.

Designer: Janelle Cardenas

A remixed version of Nancy Sinatra’s “Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)” and Amy Winehouse’s “Love Is a Losing Game” appropriately accompanied Cardenas’ models along the runway. The looks were palpably ‘60s-inspired, as the models brandished huge beehives atop their heads, matched with heavy eyeliner, red, patterned prints and above-the-knee sleeveless dresses.

Designer: Gina Kim

Kim’s designs were subtler. Her models sported big, crimped hair with mostly gray and relaxed yet elegant pieces. Several outfits were matched with clutches and handbags. Gray shorts, trousers and miniskirts were paired either with an off-the-shoulder sweater, a tunic or an asymmetrical tee.

Sue’s line mixed funky and casual pieces, muted tees and tank tops paired with short floral skirts and makeup that popped. Models entered the stage to the beat of Métisse’s “Boom Boom Bâ” wearing combinations like an above-the-knee skirt matched with a purple tank and turquoise lipstick; an orange, gray and white dress with gray lipstick; or a short, a black vest over a tee-dress with turquoise lipstick.

Designer: Dee Aguilar

Brighter and more colorful was Aguilar’s skin-baring line, complemented with a flurry of electro music. Models approached the crowd in a flashy fusion of sherbet colors: an orange top matched with bright purple harem pants, a dress with yellows, blacks and pink, a blue flutter sleeve dress with an orange necklace. The cuts were sexy–open-backs and cut-out shoulders, thigh-high dresses, and strap-y or strapless tops.

Designer: Nelli Rosh

Rosh’s clothing brought a comparable level of va va voom to the runway, balanced with sexy elegance. The first of the models emerged in a white, loose-sleeved blouse and ink-black, floor length skirt, while another model wore a brown, elbow-length blouse combined with a pink, loose, asymmetrical skirt. Other models traipsed onto the runway in tube or ruffled mini-dresses, completed with elbow-length, satin gloves or blazers. The final ensemble took the cake: a floor-length bright red sparkly dress. Jessica from Who Framed Roger Rabbit? immediately came to mind.

Designer: Caren Templet

Templet’s theme, White on Ice, was characterized both by elegance and sophistication. One by one her models appeared on the stage, their looks tailored and classic, in blouses, trousers and cap-sleeved jackets. Adding touches of glamour, the looks were accessorized with blue turbans, chunky crystal necklaces and royal blue, peep-toe heels.

Templet herself had played a large role in orchestrating Fashion Week. It had been no easy task, she reminded the crowd just before the showcase. The chaotic nature of organizing this kind of event is an indication of the goal at hand, she explained to the audience. The aim of the showcase, and of Fashion Week, is to elevate Sacramento to its rightful capitol status, she said, and make sure that New York happens here.

Considering New York fashion involves substantial edge, this vision may be in the distant future. Most attendees of the showcase played it safe in attire choices themselves. The women showed up in solid-colored dresses, chunky platform heels, colorful blazers, and sequin tops and skirts abundant. The ratio of women to men in attendance at the showcase was about three to one, an eclectic mixture of middle-aged and younger guests in the crowd. The men in attendance, particularly the photographers, appeared dapper, but also played it safe, clad in bow ties, white suit jackets, and dress shirts with vests.

There was the occasional spotting of bold fashion statements–teased hair, a crystal-embellished black fedora, a colorful Betsey Johnson necklace with a protruding plastic bird on it, or trendier pieces–i.e. black floppy hats and high-waist skirts.

But for Sacramento, this is perhaps as New York as it gets.

Tiana Vega proves giving never goes out of style

Since its opening in February 1921, a wealth of artists has performed within the grandiose bowels of Sacramento’s Memorial Auditorium, including the Rolling Stones, Beach Boys, Duran Duran and Melissa Etheridge. It was the auditorium’s grandeur and antiquity that convinced the semi-local women’s clothing designer Tiana Vega that the annual Designing Dreams fashion show should also take place there.

“For some reason, walking in there feels like you’re walking into New York,” Vega told Submerge over the phone from her hometown in Jackson, Calif. “I’ve never been to New York, but that’s what it would look like if you were walking into an old, established building in New York.”

Not to mention that last year’s premiere event was the first fashion show at the auditorium since the showcase of Coco Chanel’s collection in the ‘50s, according to Vega.

This marks the second year of Designing Dreams, an event dreamt up collaboratively by Vega and Jennifer Richards, CEO of the Sweet Dreams Foundation. The show will feature the work of 11 designers from both Sacramento and San Francisco, including Vega’s, complete with 120 models walking the 90-foot runway.

Designing Dreams, 2010: Melissa Kay Collection / Photo by Igor Kondrya

Beyond a fashion show, Designing Dreams is a charity event. The proceeds from the evening will go toward one of the foundation’s bedroom-designing projects. The foundation’s mission is to design “dream” bedrooms for children who suffer from life-threatening diseases in order to aid their healing processes. Thirteen-year-old Cassidy, a Folsom resident who was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in January last year, will be granted her dream bedroom using this year’s proceeds.

Last year the event raised enough money to successfully create a dream bedroom for 8-year-old Aimee, who suffers from severe sensitivity to ultra-violet radiation. The project’s goal was to essentially bring the outdoors to her playroom.

In the past Vega has been hesitant to organize fashion shows, especially because so many designers hold them regularly here in Sacramento. Building awareness for a line is understandable, she said, but in Los Angeles designers are focused more on selling their clothing in boutiques.

“So that’s why when I decided to do Designing Dreams I wanted to make sure it was a first-class event and have the buyers there and basically do it right,” Vega said.

This includes making sure the event gains widespread attention.

“You spend a lot of money and a lot of time doing all these outfits, and what’s the point of doing them if you’re not getting the right people to look at your stuff?” Vega said.

Still, she has participated in many events, and her work has been showcased the past two years in Sacramento’s Fashion Week. But Vega makes it a point to participate in charity events, like the Giveback Gala Fashion Show she was a part of this past April.

“I’d rather do shows where basically I’m all for the cause,” Vega said.

While in pursuit of a charity to collaborate with for a trunk show several years ago, Vega discovered Richards at one of the Sweet Dreams events and felt an immediate connection to her cause.

“Working with someone who loves absolutely what they’re doing and every minute of it and not making any money off of it, that’s very inspiring,” Vega said.

The two young designers decided to collaborate and quickly realized that their vision was bigger than a trunk show, so they decided to put on a fashion show instead.

As Vega sees it, she and Richards share a passion for designing the dreams of others, one through fashion and the other through interior design; hence the name Designing Dreams.

Vega’s own fascination with design began at an early age, starting with her childhood days tinkering with dolls and sewing their clothes. Her intrigue with fashion grew throughout her days at Argonaut High School in Jackson, peaking when she was a sophomore interning at a law firm.

Tiana Vega Collection 2011- Margaret Mary / Photos by Vang Studio Photography

“I was finding myself sketching more than anything and having more fun dressing up to go to work than actually being there and taking care of the stuff I had to do,” Vega said.

After high school she relocated to Los Angeles to attend the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, where she learned draping techniques, how to make patterns and how to sew.

Shortly before graduating with her degree in fashion design in 2008 she met Dave Icarangal, who would eventually become the cofounder of her contemporary clothing design venture. The two reconnected when she moved back to Northern California.

For the past two years she has been living back home in Jackson, selling her custom pieces online. However, the designer plans to return to Los Angeles in the near future, where she anticipates a better market to sell her collections.

Though she expresses admiration for the extravagant, over-the-top creations of designers Betsey Johnson and Monique Lhuillier, Vega does not look to others for inspiration. Rather, her inspiration stems from timeless, elegant looks of eras long past, especially those of the ‘30s and ‘40s.

Tiana Vega Collection 2011- Margaret Mary / Photos by Vang Studio Photography

“Honestly, I try to break out of my shell and do something crazy, like Lady Gaga-ish, but I can’t do it,” Vega said. “I always end up going back to something classic and tailored.”

Vega’s work is feminine and chic, intricate collections that usually take the artist two to three months to produce. Her fall/winter 2012 collection, the Margaret Mary collection she fashioned in remembrance of her grandmother, includes fitted, tight-fitting dresses with flattering necklines, or boxy cropped jackets consisting primarily of solid colors. Her collections have included bridal pieces, formal gowns and custom wear.

“I’m old school, so I always go back, like ‘30s, ‘40s, I love those looks,” Vega said. “It’s so sophisticated and sexy and I love it.”

A scene in a video for which she was a stylist inspired the 2012 spring/summer collection that will be featured in this year’s show. The scene was of a croquet match, so the clothing has a sort of Hamptons feel with a preppy vibe, she said.

Designing Dreams will feature six other Sacramento designers, including Maisha Bahati, Janelle Cardenas and Samuel Parkinson, in addition to returning designers Melissa Kay, Yennie Zhou and Nelli Rosh. Four San Francisco designers will also feature their work: pair Aya Yoruha and Diane O, Shirali Singh, Vasily Vein and Violetta Vieux.

The collections featured will cross a spectrum of looks for both men and women, ranging from ‘50s-inspired, classic pieces by Cardenas, to the surprising and chic looks of Aya Yoruha, Vega said.
Even over the phone, the designer’s excitement was apparent.

“We have a great lineup,” Vega said. “I am so excited, I am trying to slow down.”

And, as if the show of massive proportions wasn’t enough, organizers have confirmed that the runway show will open and close with performances by the Sacramento Opera. A grand night for a great cause.

According to the stylish and reputable website Dailycandy.com based out of New York, some major spring trends are here. Namely, bright make-up, sheer fabrics, “Tutti-Frutti” flirty prints, wide-leg pants, long skirts/dresses and spring hair (big, natural, textured) are exciting trends that perpetuate the “free-as-a-bird” attitude that is so loved about spring.

Audrey Jade

Although true style and fashion relies on new perspectives and creativity rather than “following trends,” Sacramento deserves kudos for keeping up with national fashion trends.

Audrey Jade

During the 2011 Sacramento Fashion Week, emerging designers, fashion lovers and design supporters displayed the ability to stay current and on trend, as well as forming some new trends. Braids, bracelets, fun hair buns and chain accessories are carving a spring niche in Sacramento fashion.

I attended the “Emerging Artist Showcase,” supporting up-and-coming talent cultivated right here in Sacramento. Audrey Jade, Brenda Vie, Faatui Toele, Kira Martinson, Maisha Bahati, Nkaujer (Jules) Thor and Noognuv Thao showed varied and thematically orchestrated lines.

Good Show, Sacramento.

Words and Photos by Josselin Basaldu
capitalcapture@submergemag.com

Nkaujer Jules Thor

Nkaujer Jules Thor

Faatui Toele

Faatui Toele

Maisha Bahati

Maisha Bahati

Kira Martinson

Audrey Jade

Kira Martinson