Spring 2011 Trend Event

Tomorrow, Wednesday, 12.1.10, Seattle Fashion Group International is hosting a Spring 2011 Trend Event at Seattle Design Center from 7-9pm (check in begins at 6:30pm). This event will feature a DVD exhibiting the top upcoming trends from Paris, New York, Milan, and more. Following the DVD will be a panel discussion comprised of leading fashion and beauty experts in the Seattle area including Terri Morgan founder of TCM Models, Christina Draper Design Director of the Womens Private Label Lines at Zumiez Inc., Leatrice Eisman, head of the Eiseman Center for Color Information & Training and executive director of the Patone Color Institute, and Kim Lunden, Style Director of Gene Juarez.

Tickets for this event can be purchased here through Brown Paper Tickets. Tickets may also be purchased at the door, but this event has limited seating, so advanced ticket purchase is encouraged.

Price includes admission, sips, snacks, and swag!

Seattle FGI Members: $15

Non-members: $20

Students with ID (must bring ID): $10

The last big Fashion Show for 2010

Regional Director, Courtney Russell's company, Half Past Lavish Event Production, produces the annual EcoLavish Fashion Show. EcoLavish is Seattle's only annual eco-conscious fashion show, and, this year, is the last annual fashion show for 2010. So, don't miss out! Designers, details and tickets @ http://www.ecolavish.com/.

Support Dress for Success this Weekend!

D-List Magazine Announces Covergirl Competition

D-List Magazine, a free publication available in Seattle and Portland has just announced their Covergirl Competition. The winning lady will be on the cover of the 2011 January issue and also receive:
- a 1 year modeling contract with TCM Models
- 1 year free tanning at Seattle Sun Tan
- 1 year membership to Davide Barton Gym
- $1,000 cash

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and be a resident of Oregon or Washington. Visit http://covergirl.dlistmagazine.com for more information, to register and submit your photo.

Presented by David Barton Gym, Neuro, Seattle Sun Tan and Verizon Wireless.

Wardrobe Renovation

Ever wanted to know how to transform your closet into your own personal boutique, find an easy way to organize your purses or how to dress for your body type?

Yes?

Well then, you are in luck!

Mayna Sgaramella, stylist extraordaire for closet fly and Jessie Wolfrum of Simple Touch are hosting The Complete Wardrobe Renovation where you will learn all of that and more!

What: The Complete Wardrobe Renovation

When: TOMORROW! 10/9/2010 10:30am - 1:30pm

Where: Mercer Island Community Center 8236 SE 24th Street Mercer Island, WA 98040

Details: click me! to register!

Mark you calendars!

Seattle FGI is hosting a New Member Networking Night for you to come and find out what FGI is all about. You will have the opportunity to meet the new Regional Director Courtney Russell and network with other business professionals in the fashion industry.

Seattle fashion Group International is a non-profit organization that strives to promote the careers of those in the fashion industry and to unite and build relationships within.

For more information on Seattle FGI please visit our website at http://seattle.fgi.org/ or contact us at seattlefgi@gmail.com

The details:

What: Seattle Fashion Group International Networking Night/Happy Hour

When: October 20th, 6:30-8pm

Where: "The Pig Room" at Twist in Belltown, 2313 1st Ave. Seattle

Please RSVP to seattlefgi@gmail.com by October 14th if you are planning to attend!

thank you to Seattle Boutique Blogspot for helping to spread the word!!

see you there!

On the Radar

International Academy of Design and Technology's 5th annual Imagine Fashion Show

When: TODAY 9/24/10

Where: Benaroya Hall

Details: Student produced, garments ranging from club wear, men’s apparel, bridal and formal wear to sportswear and even costume creation.

Tix: http://iadtredcarpetevent2010.eventbrite.com/

POSTPONED - details to come soon

Jazmin Whitley's Debut Show in Seattle

Emerald City Fashion Week presents Jazmin Whitley, designer of the Li Cari line from Los Angeles

When: Saturday, September 25th, 2010

Where: Asian Resource Center - 1025 South King Street

Details: At 17, Jazmin Whitley launched her label "Li Cari" during Los Angeles Fashion Week 2006. At 21 Jazmin Whitley is a world renowned designer who is helping and supporting local designers boutiques. Whitley has been featured in W Magazine, Seventeen, Teen Vogue, among others. She also stars in "House of Jazmin"a documentary about the life of a young fashion designer. For more info on Li Cari, visit www.shoplicari.com and check out Jazmine's debut this Saturday.

Tix: http://ecfwarcfundraiser.eventbrite.com/

8th Annual Closet Treasures Sale, a Benefit for Dress for Success Seattle

When: Saturday, Oct. 2, 10am-4pm || Sunday, Oct. 3, 10am-2pm

Where: YWCA Building 1118 5th Avenue, Seattle

Details: the YWCA Closet Treasures Sale is a two-day fundraiser supports Dress for Success Seattle. Members of the community are invited to purchase new and gently used designer, name brand, and off the rack clothing items at significant discounts. 100% of the proceeds benefit Dress for Success Seattle. Suggested admission is $35. For more info on the sale go to http://www.closettreasuressale.com/

All for Fall at Pacific Place

When: NOW through Sunday, Oct. 10

Where: Pacific Place in Downtown Seattle

Details: a three-week celebration of fabulous shopping, food and fashion – complete with free gift cards! Latin-inspired sounds abound from 2 to 5 pm each Saturday. More info can be found at http://www.pacificplaceseattle.com/allforfall/.

UW Fashion Program starts soon!

To all aspiring fashion designers or those already in the biz:

Juliet Sanders teaches the marketing quarter of the UW fashion program: Fashion: Concept to Market, which is designed to help fashion entrepreneurs prepare to launch their lines - the program dives into design, production and marketing.

If you or someone you know has been thinking about an apparel, accessory or footwear product they want to design and bring to market, or is already in business and wants to fine tune what they are doing, please let them know about the program. The program starts in 2 weeks – October 4^th – and there are still 4 spots open.

All the details and to register:

http://www.pce.uw.edu/prog.aspx?id=3646

FGI Member, Luly Yang's Annual Couture Show

Save the Date!

Fashion First is Just Two Days Away!

FGI Members & Friends,

This past weekend I was, again, inspired by the fashion show presented by the students from the Bunka Women's Fashion University in Japan. I've attended the show every year since I moved out here. Each year is a visual treat and gets my creative juices flowing! Seattle is lucky to get to see this production, and it is all thanks to FGI Member Hisako Nakaya at Seattle Central Community College. She has been bringing the group back to Seattle for the last 9 years. Thanks Hisako!

Although you might've missed the Bunka Show, you still have time to get your tickets for Fashion First. One of Seattle's premiere Fashion Show's. For those of us who wish we were in NYC at Fashion Week right now, this is exactly what you are looking for. For tickets and details go to http://fashionfirst.ipower.com/.

If you go, let us know what your favorite collection or trend for the Fall is!

Cheers,

Courtney Russell
Regional Director
FGI Seattle

9th Bunka Women’s University Annual Fashion Show

Bunka Women's University is located in Tokyo, Japan, and this is the 9th year that the USA International Homestay Program in Seattle has hosted this great show.

Where: Broadway Performance Hall 1625 Broadway, Seattle , WA 98122

When: Saturday, September 11^th 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM

Bunka Women’s University students are responsible for all stages of the show; designing, making, modeling plus stage preparation, lighting and developing the program.

Admission is FREE, however, seating is limited. Please contact us for reservation at 425-483-5974, or bunkafashionshow10@yahoo.com. (Please indicate which show you would like to reserve for -1pm or 3pm).

Fashion's Night Out and Fall for Fashion

BIG weekend for shoppers and fashion fans.

Kick off your weekend right with Fashion's Night Out, an event taking place in cities across the globe celebrating all things fashion! You can celebrate at both The Bellevue Collection and The Shops at The Bravern!

The Bellevue Collection has 70 stores participating in this year's FNO with major in store promotions and discounts, DJ's, giveaways, champagne, cupcakes and more! The first 200 guests to check in at Guest Services at Center Court at Bellevue Square after 7pm will receive a stylish wristlet! You can also enter to win a $1000 Bellevue Collection gift certificate! How perfect would that be for developing that oh-so-stunning fall wardrobe you're planning!

The Shops at the Bravern have an entire weekend of fashion, food, and fun (my favorite three F's!) planned! This Fall for Fashion weekend Tonight (and the rest of the weekend) you can celebrate Fashion's Night Out at The Shops with fashion shows, trunk shows, live entertainment, cocktails, discounts on your shopping needs and a lot more!

Sunday, there will be a Fashion brunch and silent auction at Wild Ginger to benefit Sunflower Children.

A full schedule for tonight and the rest of the weekend can be found at their website: http://www.thebravern.com/fall/ .

More info about Fashion's Night Out can be found at http://www.fashionsnightout.com/

FGI's Regional Director

The lovely Courtney Russell is the new Regional Director for Seattle Fashion Group International and was recently interviewed by CRAVE about her other career with her company Half Past Lavish Event Productions:

"Planning a lavish soiree? Turn to event planning, coordinating, and production experts Half Past Lavish!

From breath-taking venues to creating unforgettable emories, Half Past Lavish is there every step of the way to create your dream event! The HPL team brings an eclectic, sophisticated, and unique spin to every event they produce. They are dedicated to every client. They plan stylish soirees- from business meetings to baby yoga! And today Courtney Russell, founder and publisher, shares with CRAVEhow her journey led her to find her “glass slipper of a career”, and how Half Past Lavish has evolved!"

To find out more about your Regional Director, check out the rest of the article with the deets on her background, the inspiration behind Half Past Lavish and more!

And don't forget to mark your calendars, Half Past Lavish has just announced the 3rd EcoLavish Fashion Show on November 11th 2010 and Herban Feast SODO Park (tix can be purchased here!)

CRAVE is the urban girl's guide for the who, what, when and where of Seattle and most definitely a site to checkout when you are craving something fabulous in the city!

TCM Models: A Boutique Approach

TCM Models has been around for 31 years (since 1979!) and has been a major industry player for both models and actors in the Pacific Northwest. Taking on a select 400 models and 100 talent, TCM uses a self proclaimed “boutique” approach to the business to encourage the personalized development of quality skills in their models and talent. They do this in an effort to provide their clients with assets, not challenges in working with TCM models/talent. That rocks!

Terri C. Morgan is the founder and director of TCM models. She is also a former model herself giving her the unique experience to see the industry from both sides: that of the model/talent and that of the agency. What an advantage that must give!

"I have been very fortunate to have enjoyed the modeling world from an insider's viewpoint allowing me to share my experiences and successes with new models and talent. I love this industry and I want to pass along all of its rewards and opportunities." - Terri C. Morgan

TCM has recently launched a blog! The TCM Models Blog really extends that idea of the “boutique” approach, featuring some of their models right on the blog! What a great way to get the models more exposure! They also post about fashion related events in the Seattle area so no one will have to miss a single one! I know I’ll be checking back in with TCM Models blog for the scoop.

Recap of the Front Row Fashion Show with Courtney & Sydney

The Bellevue Collection presented their annual Fashion Week presented by Vogue. Our Regional Director, Courtney Russell, and Board Member, Sydney Mintle, of Styled.Seattle and CRAVE, were taking notes while our new Membership Chair, Danielle Bortone-Holt, of Brick House Photography, and Board Member Mike Adams, also a photographer, were shooting the show.



We chatted with Courtney and Sydney (pictured above) to get their thoughts on this season's trend and the show, in general.

Q: What was your favorite section? why?

Sydney: "Animal Magnetism" was my favorite! I'm really looking forward to wearing leopard prints this fall!

Courtney: I liked "Fur and Feathers" more than I thought I would, but I think my favorite collection was "American Sportswear." I'm loving the infusion of Mad Men inspired looks!

Q: What was a hit?

Courtney: My top three would be really high boots or really low ankle boots paired with colored tights, gem tones - teal, eggplant, ruby paired with camel, gray and black, and the hats - I loved the hats!

Sydney: There were lots of hits! I loved the faux fur vests paired with skinny belts, the color spectrum of tights paired with skirts and dresses, and the menswear trousers.

Q: What was a miss?

Sydney: I didn't notice any misses. Although some of the male models were wearing high water pants and it was obviously not planned that way.

Courtney: I agree about the pants...it was distracting to see on the runway, but we know they pull the show together in a week! I was hoping for a different look to come down the runway with the "Sweater Girls" collection than what was presented, but although it was not what I was expecting it was done well.

Q: What one fashion trend will you be sure to have in your wardrobe this year?

Courtney: I have some great pieces that I think are still going to work this Fall (colored tights, ankle boots, a dark purple/eggplant dress I love), that I want to pair with some of those sleek hats or mile high boots.

Sydney: Something military inspired like a khaki trench coat paired with a suede ankle boot.

Q: Thank you to you both for sharing your thoughts from the show. Any other thoughts about this year's Front Row Fashion Show presented by Vogue at The Bellevue Collection?

Sydney: It was fun, and I was happy to see such a packed house ready and willing to celebrate fall fashion!
Courtney: It was a lot of fun, I agree. I'm so glad Vogue continues to support The Bellevue Collection Fashion Week. It's important for our industry up here in the Pacific Northwest.

Photos Courtesy of Brick House Photography

VIP Party Kicks off Bellevue Fashion Week

Tuesday, August 24th was the VIP kickoff Party for Bellevue Fashion Week. The event was held at the Twisted Cork at the Hyatt Regency in Bellevue. On display was the new book American Fashion Designers at Home authored by Rima Suqi, along with the new collection from designer Cynthia Rowley. Models posed on platforms with Rowley's designs that included retro fabrics and ostrich feathers.

In partnership with Assouline and CFDA, the event was hosted by Karen Moyer of the Moyer Foundation. Delectable treats and drinks were provided by Twisted Cork of the Hyatt. It was a beautiful and fashionable event with many fashion industry professionals attending.

Photo provided by Brick House Photography

Woo Hoo

It feels like the holidays! We've been able to raffle off some amazing prizes to our members recently. First, we had all kinds of amazing goodies, like gift certificates to Frenchy's, Vian Hunter, and Tricoter from our big summer shopping event in Madison Valley, and just this week we are giving away tickets to the big REPORT Launch event produced by Girl Power Hour.

If you haven't won anything yet, sit tight. We promise there are more opportunities in store for great deals & steals!

xoxo,

FGI Seattle

Great Mad Men Article from FGI Member

If you haven't heard, "Lady-like" dressing is back in style, and we know much of the thanks is owed to the stellar series, Mad Men.

FGI Member, Cameron Levin, is a local fashion journalist and designer, who recently interviewed Allison Leach, Mad Men costume designer and UW Alum, for an article in Seattlest.

Read the full article - http://seattlest.com/2010/08/20/dress_code_the_good_bad_and_ugly_ma.php

Cheers!

FGI Seattle

Bellevue Fashion Week is Coming!

We're so excited! Vogue is back in Bellevue for the annual Fashion Week at The Bellevue Collection.

We'll be in the front row @ the Front Row Fashion Show. Will you?

For details go to: bellevuecollection.com/fashionweek

And check back with us after the shows for deets and thoughts on this seasons trends!

FGI Passport to Fashion a success!

July 22nd was the perfect warm, sunny day for FGI Seattle's Passport to Shopping event in Madison Valley. With the added support of the Madison Valley Merchants Association, over 20 local businesses in this trendy neighborhood remained open later to invite shoppers in and contributed to various goody bags and raffle prizes.

Vian Hunter House of Fashion was the center of activity, where guests picked up freshly baked macarons and "passports" to bring to the local businesses where they could get stamped in order to win goody bags. Shoppers also earned an additional raffle ticket for every $10 they spent at the shops which were all within walking distance. Goody bags were given to the first 10 people to visit 10 vendors and return their cards to Casa Del Caffe.

Some of the shops offered wine tastings and free samples. The brightly colored pink "passport" cards attracted the curiosity of passersby as they asked what was going on and how they could get involved. The night concluded with a raffle, offering prizes such as $100 Gift Certificate to Vian Hunter, a classic manicure at Frenchy's and Introduction to Knitting lessons at Tricoter.

Be on the lookout for the next trendy neighborhood take-over from FGI. You can bet it will be the hippest way to share a shopping spree with friends on a summery evening.

Photos by Brick House Photography

FGI Presents: Passport to Summer Fashion

The evening will begin with a champagne reception at designer Lisa Vian Hunter's House of Fashion where guests will pick up their FGI Passport to Summer Fashion which gives them after-hours access to shop at participating retailers including River Song, Lavender Heart, Veritables Home Decor, Fury Womens Consignment, Istina and Red Ticking. Exclusive discounts and sweet treats will be served at each store while guests get their passport stamped at each location for a chance to win fabulous prizes including a $100 gift certificate to Vian Hunter's House of Fashion at the end of the night. So grab your girlfriends for a cool summer night out with hot FGI exclusive discounts!

Begins at Vian Hunter 2814 E. Madison St., Thursday, July 22, 6:30PM to 8:00PM

Details: Participating retailers include River Song (offering 10% off) Lavender Heart, (10% discount) Veritables Home Decor (offering 20% off 1 item), Vian Hunter (offering 20% off 1 item), Fury Women's Consignment (offering 10% off), Istina (offering 10% discount on all items), and Red Ticking (10% off select items and 20% off bedding). Make-up artist Jara Mohlman will also be on hand to offer guests free mini-makeovers!

Tickets: $15/member, $20/non-members in advance and $25/members and $30/non-members at the door. Get your advanced tickets below.


$15 Advanced Member Ticket

$20 Advanced Non-Member Ticket

Seattle CRAVE Business Chat: To Blog or Not to Blog

Our very own Sydney Chavez will be a speaker at this event!



Seattle CRAVE Business Chat: To Blog or Not to Blog

Speakers: Monica Guzman (moniguzman.com) and Sydney Chavez (sydneylovesfashion.com)
When: Sunday June 27th, 2-4pm
Where: Sodo Photo - 2020 Airport Way S. Seattle
Tickets: $25 per person

Have you been CRAVEing a blog as part of your business' online strategy? We've got two of Seattle's best and brightest bloggesses at our June Biz Chat. These blog intelligentsia will show you what it takes to get a dynamic blog up and running. Learn how they've turned blogging into an important part of their business strategy, expanding their network and opening the door for new opportunities. Explore options between WordPress, Blogger, Tumblr, Posterous and more. Discover how you can create new customer opportunities for your blog readers.

Our CRAVE Chatsbring together amazing entreprenesses in an informal, conversational setting. Connect with some of the best and brightest Seattle intelligentsia and enhance your network with fabulous new resources!

UW Fashion: Concept to Market Certificate Program Final Presentations

June 7th, 2010 The FGI Sponsored the UW Fashion Concept to Market Certificate Final Presentations. Twelve students presented their marketing concept and designs to Fashion Professionals, FGI members and other students. Each were given a chance to spend ten minutes with FGI Board members for their presentation and a question and answer period. The work varied from hats and petite shoes to a line of ballroom dancewear and knitted dresses. An amazing UW themed desert buffet was presented by Half Past Lavish and included macrons from Starry Nights Catering and Trophy Cupcakes.

News from FGI NY

The Latest Issue of the FGI Bulletin awaits you at:

http://fgi.org/pdfs/fgi_bulletin_20100604.pdf
(either click on this link or copy and paste into your browser window)

Dear FGI Member,

The FGI Bulletin went digital last May and is now published online as a full color Internet magazine. Our shift from print to an entirely digital product enables us to expand our editorial content and deliver the latest news from FGI faster and more efficiently than ever.

Some of the terrific new additions you'll find online in the Bulletin include in-depth special reports and more topical features. Of course, all your favorite features will remain in the mix. The bulletin will continue to be written and edited by our Publications Committee.

Also for your exclusive viewing is a recap of our recent Regional Directors' Conference written by Susan Alveshere, regional director of our Seattle group. Read all about this dynamic 3 day event at:

http://fgi.org/pdfs/seattle-rd-recap_2010.pdf

Past issues are available online in the member's only area of www.fgi.org For access:

* Go to Member's Login screen (either at the top right, at Members on the red navigation bar
or just click on the FGI Bulletin picture)

* Login by using your email (if you need to update your email, call FGI at 212.302.5511) and your password. If you never received a password or cannot remember it, follow the prompts and FGI will automatically send you one.

* After login, the newest FGI Bulletin and past issues can be simply read online or printed by clicking on the bulletin picture. (if the pdf does not open right away, just save it and then open it)

Here at FGI, it has always been our mission to be at the forefront of fashion and work to bring our members the best and most important tools to enhance their professional development. I'm confident in its new digital format, you'll find the Bulletin a vital way to stay in touch with fellow FGI members around the global.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Margaret Hayes
President

SCCC Line/Portfolio Show

Please join us in celebrating with the
2010 Apparel Design graduates
as they present their Final Line/Portfolio Show on

Tuesday, June 15
9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Seattle Central Community College Room 1110



For more information please call 206-903-3223

The 2010 RD Conference in NY

Susan and myself went to NY for the FGI Regional Directors Conference last month and met with many of the different regions of FGI. It was quite fun and really interesting hearing about the ups and downs of all the other chapters. It really put everything in perspective.

Susan was kind enough to sum it up for you all so we could share the info with all of you. Enjoy!

Oh and Seattle won the Membership Award!!

Open publication - Free publishing - More vogue

Project Red Dress

MONIR ZANDGHORIESHI Presents 3rd Annual PROJECT RED DRESS Back by a popular demand!

Local and National celebrity judges including Project Runway Nick Verreos, will judge one of a kind red gowns all designed by local fashion designers students. Proceeds from the event benefits the American Heart Association and the student winner with of Project Red Dress with a scholarship. Directed by Eduardo Khawam.

WHERE
Fairmont Olympic Hotel Seattle
Spanish Ballroom
411 University St
Seattle, WA 98101

Ticket Prices:
$35 Students
$50 General admission
$75 Premiere runway seating and a luxury swag bag!

TIME
Cocktail Reception 6:30pm
Fashion Show 7:30pm

Buy your tickets now at
http://www.projectreddress.com/
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/107718

DRESS CODE:
Dress to impress

FACEBOOK: Project Red Dress become a fan

élise Magazine

Seattle Regional Director, Susan Alveshere, was hired at the end of February 2010 by Designer Bloc to be the Editor in Chief of their new magazine entitled, élise Magazine. Check it out! Way to go Susan!!

élise Magazine is an international publication with a focus on luxury fashion and lifestyle which debuted on April 28, 2010. To reflect the magazine’s eco-conscious perspective, élise is published in a digital, interactive mode as well as a limited-circulation print edition. Print edition copies can be purchased exclusively online at élisemagazine.com. élise can be viewed free at www.elisemagazine.com.

While striving to promote sustainability, élise features the latest trends in global fashion and the hottest new designers, as well as beautiful photography and intriguing articles all within an e-flip interactive and hot-linked magazine that can take the reader directly to online shops, websites, and direct email, that are linked within the magazine to the web.

Technologically advanced, élise merges with weekly updates of runway, fashion photography, blogging, and an interactive fashion community for its readers online.

Editor in Chief of élise Magazine is Susan Alveshere, who is formerly of Beauty Revolution Magazine which had a circulation of 170,000. Alveshere is also a Regional Director for Fashion Group International, a global, non-profit organization that supports the fashion and design industry.

CEO David Stoyanov is also the CEO of Designer Bloc, publisher of élise Magazine. Designer Bloc partners with the University of Washington for educational and publishing experiences for students. As a strong supporter of education, élise will continue to partner with colleges and universities internationally.

élise staff and contributors includes award-winning and recognized writers, artists, and designers such as Emmy Award-nominated Lori Ann Robinson, luxury jeweler Nancy Grando, and couture designer and stylist Giuseppe Grazioli.

To find out more: marketing@elisemagazine.com or info@elisemagazine.com.

Rockaholic National Tour Bus Event

Please Join Salon Ciba and TIGI Haircare and Cosmetics for a Rockin Cinco De Mayo from 5:30pm-9:30 pm!

Salon Ciba's most sought after hairstylists will be offering $10.00 haircuts to be donated to Children's Research Hospital!!!

Come have fun the "Rockaholic Salon on Wheels", Guitar Hero contests, local Seattle Rock band, door prizes and more!

"Jewels" Unveiled

Seattle FGI Member, Cameron Levin, will have her cocktail line, "Jewels", featured in Ethan Jack Harrington's 10-piece oil painting series, and both will be unveiled at Amber in Belltown for the Susan G. Komen event (click on the flyer below). Come out and show her your support!

Eco-Chic Expo Blooms this May Day in Seattle

Interactive Green Lifestyle Event Debuts to Share Tips and Tricks to Going Green

Eco-Chic Expo: an interactive green lifestyle event launches May 1st to prove that going green is more stylish and easier than some think. Showcasing more than 15 local companies in every lifestyle category, Eco-Chic Expo exhibitors will entertain and educate guests of this free event about how to live more sustainably. The latest harvest from three local, eco-friendly companies – Tread Light Gifts, mamaswap.com and Satsuma Designs - the Eco-Chic Expo will be held Saturday, May 1st at the Ravenna-Eckstein Community Center from 10a-2p.

“Going green isn’t all about having a chicken coop and composting, although those are great ways to live sustainably! We want to share with our community that a greener life can be easy, fun, even fashionable,” quips Tracy Anderson, Eco-Chic Co-founder and CEO of Tread Light Gifts. Among other demonstrations and interactive how-tos, guests can learn how to create a landscape to feed a family, make organic paper for writing and wrapping, mix up non-toxic, all natural cleaning products, enjoy natural spa treatments and complimentary brow and lip sugaring, design green interior spaces, fashion organic clothing and jewelry, swap gently used kids clothing and gear, and enjoy an Eco-Chic Expo exclusive, a Dante Inferno’s Eco-Dog!

Designed to connect community with accessible, fun ways to live a greener life, event organizers reached out to local lifestyle brands known for their commitment to sustainability. “At thinknow, we believe sustainability or 'being green' is not a single effort or one-time fashion statement. It’s a lifestyle, a community ethos and a plan for the world's future. The Eco-Chic Expo presents an excellent platform to participate in a premiere eco-community effort to inform and inspire a great local audience,” shares Becky Ellis, exhibitor and eco-friendly jewelry designer.

“There are so many levels of green and just as many ways to go green. Being green can be as simple as remembering your mom’s voice reminding you turn off the lights when you leave a room or rinse out that Ziploc bag to use again,” laughs Sarah Bell, Eco-Chic Co-Founder and CEO of mamaswap.com, an online consignment community for families.

Bell will moderate two family gear swaps at 11a and 1p where gently used, durable and beautiful brands will be passed on to greener pastures. Guests planning to swap their gently used baby and children’s items are invited to visit mamaswap.com to register for the swaps.

About Eco-Chic Expo
Eco-Chic Expo: an interactive green lifestyle event is the first travelling local showcase of sustainable lifestyle companies working to educate, encourage and entertain Seattleites interested in going green in any part of life: home, health, food, fashion, baby, beauty, interiors, travel and more. For more information, visit www.ecochicexpo.blogspot.com

About Eco-Chic Expo Creators
Tread Light Gifts offers eco-friendly, yet eco-chic gifts that you will be proud of giving to your friends, family, colleagues, and even yourself. Tread Light Gifts believes that you don't have to sacrifice style in order to live a life that is earth conscious. www.treadlightgifts.com

Mamaswap.com is an easy way for people to sell their used kid's stuff directly to people who want to buy it. www.mamaswap.com

Satsuma Designs creates all natural gifts and gear for baby and home. Made in Seattle and sold around the world to comfort and clothe babies of all ages. www.satsumadesigns.com

FGI DVD Fall Trend Show at SPU - May 19th

Please join us for the showing of the 2010 Fall Trend DVD show.

Following the presentation there will be a panel discussion regarding Fall Trends by some local experts.


Wednesday May 19th 7:00-8:30pm
DVD Fall Trend Show
Seattle Pacific University
3307 Third Ave. West
Seattle 98119
Peterson Hall Room 201


Panel Speakers:
Lisa Vian Hunter: vianhunter.com
Tamara Donaghy: swayandcake.com

Cost:
Members prepay-$15 (pay below) or Door-$20

Non-members prepay-$20 (pay below) or Door $25

Students prepay $6 (pay below - student ID required) or Door $12

Parking is free in the unnumbered spots in the Dravus parking lot.

Save the Date! Spring Runway Fashion Show May 21, 2010

ALSO: FGI Member, Lisa Vian Hunter, is now officially a Project Runway applicant, having sent in her completed paperwork, photos, videos and design samples as required. Hopefully, Lisa gets selected to be on the show. Fingers crossed everybody! Best of luck Lisa!!

FGI Event: Twice Blushed Trunk Show

A Special Presentation Sponsored by Fashion Group International

Seattle's Fashion Group International is "Going Green" this month with a special Twice Blushed Trunk Show featuring wedding gowns and eco-conscious jewelry designers.

Twice Blushed turns once-loved bridal gowns into unique, one-of-a-kind art that represents an environmentally conscious approach to the traditional wedding gown. An essential component of a “green wedding”, Twice Blushed gowns are handmade right here in Seattle. Come meet the designer, see the beautiful showcase of gowns and learn more about the unique process that goes into reconstructing each gown into a signature piece.

Light refreshments including Champagne and Cupcake Royale Cupcakes will be served as guests network with FGI members, fashion industry professionals, and students studying for a career in a fashion-related field.

What: FGI Twice Blushed Trunk Show
When: April 28, 2010
Time: 6:30pm-8pm
Where: Vernell Studios. 5228 20th Ave. NW. Seattle, WA 98107
Tickets: $10 for FGI Members, $15 for non-members, $5 for students with valid ID

Please RSVP!

Luly Yang 2010 Tea Show Preview

Seattle’s premiere fashion designer will present her new collection of Day, Cocktail, Bridal and Cashmere dresses on Sunday, May 16, 2010 at 12:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. in The Georgian in Seattle’s beautiful Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Washington State’s only AAA Five-Diamond Hotel.

Luly Yang’s inspiration was influenced by Parisian women who are known for being feminine, chic, worldly and sexy; women who take the time to savor life’s many flavors and adventures. Miss Yang’s silhouettes are shapely and feminine, with form fitting knee length dresses and skirts. Her suitings will be accompanied with timeless cashmere separates along with her signature bridal gowns. Luly’s color palette includes French Vanilla with cream, ivory and white; Mocha with deep browns and taupe; Strawberry Cream with hues of pink and blush; along with Carmel and Lavender Glace’. Luly hand selected her fabrics from Europe, Asia and New York. Fabrications include Silk Chiffon, Charmeuse, stretch Crepe Blends, and lightweight Silk Cashmere that will be the perfect new wardrobe addition for a woman’s wardrobe with our mild climate. Accents to complete Luly’s looks include Chantilly and Venetian Lace; light gathers and subtle ruching; ribbon appliqué; leather piping; and faceted glass beading.

Afternoon tea in The Georgian is a truly a memorable experience. With an array of delicate tea sandwiches and petit sweet delights all served tiered-style, accompanied with Fairmont teas ranging from Japan Sencha, Kyoto Rose, Empress Blend 1908, and more. Under the lead of Executive Chef Gavin Stephenson, The Georgian recently earned its 21st consecutive AAA Four -Diamond Award, celebrating decades of unrivaled culinary excellence.

Since opening her first boutique in downtown Seattle in 2000, Luly Yang is celebrated for her elegant and timeless designs for both women and men. She has been editorially featured in a variety of fashion and bridal magazines nationally, including Seattle and Beijing. Luly opened her second boutique at The Fairmount Hotel in Beijing, China in November 2008. Luly Yang has earned and received many awards, including the prestigious Nellie Cashman Award in 2007 for Women Business Owners; and in 2008 the International Academy of Design and Technology IADT Lifetime Achievement Award.

To purchase tickets for the 12:00 p.m. or 4:30 p.m. Tea Show, please contact Bojana Marusic at 206.287.4049 or bojana.marusic@fairmount.com. Tickets are $75.00 per person, and $35.00 for children 12 and under.

Pour l' Amour

Need your fashion show fix? The runaway fashion show, entitled Pour l' Amour, is on Saturday, April 10th at 7:00 P.M., & 9:00 P.M. at New York Fashion Academy 5201 Ballard Ave NW. Seattle, WA 98107

Giuseppe: Dishing with Kathy Casey

FGI member, Giuseppe Grazioli, spent some time with local foodie, Kathy Casey! Here is the adventure straight from her:

Seattle Dances! It was fun ... and I did not fall on my freaking a!%
I want to personally thank everyone for all their support and votes! I trained hard and danced my heart out Charleston-ing on stage. YES – it was stressful! But I’m happy to say I now know how to do something other than disco down, thanks to my dancing instructor Josh Welter!

It all came together this past Sat., Mar. 13th. The event started at 5:30 pm but I was up and getting ready at 11:00 am! I can’t say that I was that nervous … okay, who am I kidding? I was absolutely jittery and panicky! I’d rather shake up a cocktail or cook up a storm in front of thousands than do the Charleston in front of the judges. Sheesh!

The night started off with a signature cocktail called the Lizzie Highfly that my gang shook up in honor of a great 1929 Charleston dancer. It’s fresh raspberries, Pearl Vodka and fresh lemon juice, topped with a lush raspberry foam made with Monin Raspberry Syrup and a sprinkle of edible gold flakes!

hen there was a silent auction and then a live auction during dinner—I wasn’t really sure what went on during this time because I was in the green room getting ready!

The dancers took the stage at around 8:45 and we gave it our all! All the dance sets were incredible. You can watch the event on the Seattle Dances! website.

Because of your help, the other dancers and myself, as well as Plymouth Housing Group raised over $400,000! That’s just truly amazing! None of us could have done it without your amazing inspiration, great encouragement, and wonderful resolve to support the Plymouth Housing Group.

Picture: Steven Goldfarb, me, Giuseppe Grazioli (our fabulous costume designer), and Cathi Hatch minutes before our big performances!

So congrats to all the winners—which in my book we all were! Even though Seattle Dances! is over now, I still want to keep on dancing! West Coast swing dancing anyone?

Razor Clam Lovers Unite!
It’s almost here! Sat., Mar. 27th in Ocean Shores, Washington. I will be hosting the 4th Annual Razor Clam Festival from 10:00 – 6:00 pm at the Ocean Shores Convention Center. It’ll be a clam-tastic event filled with lots of great activities: a clam dance, a clam chowder cook-off, and of course, razor clam digging!

A Firefighters' All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast will precede clam fest activities from 7:00–9:45 am. Tickets are $5 at the door. (The breakfast is ok but the firemen who serve it are HOT… and that just makes it better!)
Events will include live music all day long, an Artisans' Marketplace featuring NW artists, contests for the best–decorated clam shovel & clam gun (CRAFTERS take note!!) and a Kids Zone with visits from the Ocean Shores Pirates. And of course there’s lots of clam chowder, great Bloody Mary’s and plenty of good eats!
Come join me for fun clam festivities! Admission is $2 for adults, and children under 12 are free! A great deal for a weekend trip to enjoy some good salt air and get your fill of clams!

The Buzz is on …
…and the bees will be a lot closer than you think! The Ballard Dish D’Lish and Ballard Bee Honey have plans in the works to install hives in our back garden area. Beekeeper and honey man extraordinaire, Corky Luster, reassures us (and I’m not the biggest fan of bee stings!) that the bees are docile and super–passive. I know because all last summer his bees were zooming around our back garden—especially near our fennel—and didn’t mind me getting in their way at all.

Have you tried Ballard Bee Honey yet? If not, stop in Dish D’Lish and grab a bottle for yourself. It’s mighty delicious! And there is also a Bee Happy for Summer event in the works … stay tuned on Twitter!

Great Reads …
Spring means time to get outside, sit and soak up some rays and read a good book. Or cook from it, shake from it or just get inspired! Here are new books by my favorite friends and authors:
The Modern Mixologist by Tony Abou-Ganim – a must-have for the cocktail enthusiast.
Gourmet Game Night by Cynthia Nims – if you like playing games, eating and sipping then this is the book for you. Hey! I even got to be a taste tester when she was writing this book. I give it a full D’Lish recommendation!
Discover Cooking with Lavender by Kathy Gehrt – now you’ll know what to do with this beautiful flower—from appetizers to drinks.

Egypt – Yes, I am jealous I didn’t go!
But, hey, I’ve been to Miami for the Cheers Beverage conference … Vegas for the Night Club and Bar Show … BUT Keith Waldbauer, my Sr. Mixologist Associate, did get to go to Egypt, where he opened the new Fairmont Nile City’s bars and trained all the bar staff. Keith had an amazing trip. As you can see, he did squeeze in a little time for an adventure to the Giza Plateau … Keith how did you reach the top of that pyramid?!

That’s it for now. Wishing you a happy spring. Don’t forget to check out my blog for the most up-to-date recipes and foodie and cocktail news, or follow my adventures on Twitter. - Kathy

Check out Kathy Casey's Blog!

AIS Portfolio Review- March 25th

The Art Institute of Seattle is hosting it's it's Graduate Portfolio review on Thursday, March 25th from 10:00am-2:00pm at Benaroya Hall. Come see talented grads from a variety of majors including Fashion Design & Fashion Merchandising. 

For more information contact:
Darcie Thompson at darthompson@aii.edu

"Technical Sourcebook for Designers” Book Launch Party

To remain in-sync with current trends in apparel manufacturing practices, design students need to understand principles of technical design, such as how construction influences design, how to conduct a fit session, and how to write concise instructions for prototypes and revisions. Technical Designer's Sourcebook will provide students with essential techniques, principles, and terminology related to current apparel production technology and manufacturing practices. Through practical exercises and the authors own industry experience, the book will integrate the fundamental knowledge that students have gained in their design courses with the technical design skills they ll need to demonstrate in an apparel manufacturing firm. FGI is proud to present a book launch party for the authors of the "Technical Sourcebook for Designers" written by local fashion industry insiders Jaeil Lee and Camille Steen. 

What: “Technical Sourcebook for Designers” Book Launch Party 

When: Thursday, March 18th @ 7pm

Where: Patricia Nugent Design and Textiles Studio. 2158 8th Ave. W. Saettle, WA 98119

Cost: FGI Members- Free/ Non-Members $10

RSVP: seattlefgi@gmail.com


About the Authors
Jaeil Lee, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor and Director of Fashion Program at Seattle Pacific University. Her experience includes technical design position at one of the top retailers in the nation. Her research focuses on apparel product development, creative teaching and curriculum development, and cross-cultural study of fashion consumerism. She has presented her research in the United States and abroad. She has published in Journal of Fashion Information and Technology, International Journal of Costume and Culture, and Korean Clothing and Textiles Research Journal. She maintains her active membership with The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS), International Textiles Apparel Association (ITAA), and Fashion Group International (FGI). She currently serves on the chair of Curriculum Development Committee for ITAA.

Camille Steen is Senior Technical Designer at Ex Officio LLC, a leading maker of travel apparel. She has had twenty-five years of experience in the apparel design and technical design fields.