SAVA's Harvest Moon Fashion Show & Community Fair
I've been wanting to share this you guys since I started making it, but I was having some technical difficulties Finally, it's done and ready for your viewing. During The Philadelphia Collection, I was invited by Sarah Van Aken, designer and CEO of SAVA Fashion to attend the Harvest Moon Fashion Show and Community Fair on the 1700 block of Sansom Street. SAVA is known for creating beautiful sustainable fashions either through fair trade, being locally produced, organic, made in the USA or recycled. I created this little video to bring some of the experience to you! Hope you enjoy and can't wait 'til next year!
For more information on SAVA go to SAVAfashion.com
Mingling with the XIX 9/26
It was such an honor to attend the 3rd Annual XIX Most Fashionable Women in Philadelphia. Being around so many influential woman who are recognized not only for their great sense of style, but also for their long-standing community service and involvement. Some of the women honored were Sarah Van Aken, Founder/CEO & Designer at SAVA and S.V.A. Holdings Corporation, Natalie Nixon, Associate Professor in the Fashion Merchandising Program and Director of the Strategic Design MBA at Philadelphia University and Kristen Laviolette, Supporter of Flyers Charities and Wife of Philadelphia Flyers Head Coach, Peter Laviolette. The event was held at the beautiful and fittingly titled XIX Restaurant at The Bellevue which gave attendee picturesque views of the city. This was my first time attending the event and I hope not the last.
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| Lagos partnered with Mary K. Dougherty for this Wonderful Event |
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| Left: Mayor Michael Nutter with his Wife Lisa Nutter, who was a past honoree Top Right: Designers from The Philadelphia Incubator Kaitlyn Doherty, Autumn Kietponglert, & Latifat Obajinmi Bottom Right: Associate Professor Natalie Nixon and I showing our pearly whites |
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| Top: The lovely Kristen Laviolette, supporter of Flyers Charities Bottom Left: I loved this cape by fellow blogger Doreen Creede of Style Maniac Bottom Right: Chatting with Mary Dougherty, Event Organizer & owner of Nicole Miller Philadelphia |
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| Left: Pat Ciarrocchi Anchor & Reporter from CBS 3 Top Right: Sarah Van Aken, Founder/CEO & Designer at SAVA and S.V.A. Holdings Corporation Bottom Right: These ladies were tons of fun! |
To view the pictures in their full glory visit our Tumblr page here!
Topshop at Nordstrom Fashion Party 9/25
If you don't know by now, you can now find TopShop at select Nordstrom locations and online. They recently hosted a Fashion Party to celebrate the launch at their King of Prussia store. I was able to go and had a great time. They gave everyone the chance to model some of their latest fashions in front of the #BritishStyle backdrop. Shoppers could also get a mini makeover by Nordstrom's Beauty Stylist, Jennifer Kochenour, dance to tunes by DJ Aiden Scott, and with every $100 purchase they gave away samples of their new beauty line coming soon to Nordstrom. Did you get to attend the fashion party? If you got to check out the collection, let me know what you think?
A Night with an Illustrator
It was a pleasure meeting Christian Dior's Beauty Artist in Residence and Fashion Illustrator, Bil Donovan! It was so much fun being in a room full of love for Donovan and his work. I had the privileged of sitting with his sister and other members of his family who by the end of the night made me feel like an extended member. If you are not yet familiar with his work, visit BilDonovan.com and I'm sure he'll become an instant favorite.
The Philadelphia Collection 2012 Kick-Off Event
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| Philly Fashion is Moving Up |
Now that NYFW is over, it's time for Philadelphia to shine with The Philadelphia Collection. Tuesday, I was invited to the Kick-Off Party for this year's The Philadelphia Collection events. Judging from the great time I had, I can't wait for the upcoming festivities. With nearly 75 events, spanning from large-scale "featured" runway shows and fashion presentations to smaller events including trunk shows and expert panel discussions, inviting consumers to shop and embrace fall fashion. Last year, there were so many events, I was running around like crazy. This year I maybe doing the same, but in a more organized fashion.
The event was held at the Art Museum's beautiful Art Deco designed Perelman Building located at 2424 Pennsylvania Ave. Currently the museum is hosting an exhibit entitled Prom Photographs by Mary Ellen Kelly which displays photos of students at their prom from different areas of the United States which turned out to be very interesting. Coming up on October 6, the Ronaldus Shamask: Form, Fashion, Reflection comes to Philly and is sure to attract those who appreciate the art form of fashion. I'll share more info on Ronaldus Shamask and the future exhibit in a upcoming post, but for now enjoy some more pics from the event.
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| Love these Shoes from Bus Stop Boutique |
For more information on The Philadelphia Collection, check out the ThePhiladelphiaCollection.org
Aveda x Fashion of Philly The New One Event During FNO 2012
Once again, I want to thank everyone who came out last Thursday to the FNO Event at Aveda. If you were there and want to check out your pics click here. If you couldn't make it, but still want to check out the pics, feel free. Our photographer did a awesome job capturing the moment and is offering custom touch-ups with the purchase of your photo. If you have any questions, shoot him a email here.
Fashion's Night Out KOP Bloggers Preview
King of Prussia gave Fashion of Philly a sneak peek at what retailers have in store for this year's Fashion Night Out. We got to visit seven stores: Vera Bradley, Wolford, Tumi, BCBG, Aveda, Kate Spade, and Tommy Bahama. At Vera Bradley, we got to preview the three latest colors to be released this Fall. Canyon, a western print, Portobello Road, which is a soft, natural print, and Provencal, a fun paisley print with a mustard background. Along with the bags they will also be debuting two new key chains styles: the braided and the bloom. Vera Bradley showed off a few new bag silhouettes: Saddle Up, a cross shoulder, Mom's Day Out, perfect for Mom's with toddlers, and the Cassidy, a sophisticated look. If you can't wait 'til Fashion's Night Out on September 6th, stop by on Thursday, August 30th for a store wide event of Fall, Fashion ... Fun! There will be great giveaways, special offers, plus sweets and treats all day. If you do decide to wait for Sept. 6th, purchase select totes and receive a free small cosmetic bag.
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| The Vera Bradley Store in KOP is So Beautiful! |
Our next stop was Wolford. If you've never stopped in Wolford, I suggest you take a trip. Wolford is the hottest destination for hosiery, but they also carry lingerie, shapewear, swimwear, ready-to-wear, accessories, and select men's items. I fell in love with the textures, colors, and patterns. Their tights are so unique giving you both an edgy side with a touch of elegance. Some of their popular styles are those worn by celebrities such as Beyonce (Neon 40), Katy Perry (Touch 20), Madonna (Twenties), and Kate Middleton (Naked 8). Wolford is known for their seamless circular knitting technology offering a perfect, flawless fit to the body. When buying one of their items, view it as an investment piece because of its wearability. Shop during Fashion's Night Out and sip on free cocktails!
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| Top Right: The Rose Dress with Maria Knee-Highs and Tamara Gaiter |
Next we went to Tumi. Tumi is what I call luggage on steroids. They have pieces that transform, are super lightweight, and extremely durable. Their three colors for Fall are the Chianti (a sort of plum), Black and Peacock (a teal-ish blue). Tumi offers luggage for every traveler from a high density nylon that's water and stain resisant to packing cubes to keep everything neat and tidy. Every piece from their woman's line of traveling goods has a velvet lined jewelry pocket. How thoughtful! We were most impressed by the Dror collection designed by Award Winning International Designer and Architect, Dror Benshetrit. His collection focuses on the concept of transformation of both style and purpose. Each bag come with the Tumi Tracer, a serial number that is attached to your name just in case it gets lost or stolen, a 5 year warranty and lifetime of service, and even loaner bags while your luggage is being repaired. So if you plan on doing some serious traveling, a Tumi luggage piece should be the first thing on your packing list. For Fashion's Night Out, enjoy light refreshment and an Art of Packing demo.
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| Bottom Left: The Tumi Vapor |
At BCBG Maxazria, we drooled over their latest collections from right off the runway with panels of lace and pleats. I love the color blocking pieces, with such vibrant hues for Fall and of course, beautiful gowns and dresses. For Fashion's Night Out, BCBG will be selling official FNO items like a canvas tote and top. They will also be hosting a contest. Stop by and get styled in BCBG from head to toe. Then instagram your shot with hashtag #BCBGFNO for a chance to win a $1000 BCBG Maxazria wardrobe. May the best fashionista win!
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| Middle: The Official FNO Canvas Tote |
Aveda lured us in with their awesome aromatherapy scents and their intriguing new line of hair products. Their Invati System Collection (Shampoo, Conditioner, Scalp Revitalizer)
promotes thicker, fuller hair by reducing hair loss by 33%. Aveda also has a full line of beauty products with colors right on trend for Fall. As always, Aveda specializes in making sure their products are as eco-friendly as possible by using natural based materials. Be sure to stop by on Fashion's Night Out to get your hair and make-up done by the Aveda team, a photo-op by the Fashion of Philly photographers, and a meet and greet with me!
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| Aveda's Invati System Collection |
Kate Spade was as cute as ever with a display of polka dot styles for every piece in your wardrobe from coat to shoes. I always love their quirky accessories. My favorite was the Pardon My French Large Jocelyn bag, the perfect statement accessory. Their second collection was full of illustrative prints by French Photographer and Blogger Garance Dore, who I recently became obsessed with. This store is also my favorite place to find fun gifts for the women in my family. Stop by during Fashion's Night Out for sips, snacks, and an in-store raffle.
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| Fun Quirky Accessories at Kate Spade |
Our last stop was one of the newest stores to open at KOP, Tommy Bahama. For Fall, the company is planning to expand on their denim line with new fits and washes to appeal to a younger crowd. They didn't forget about their staple pieces such as the very popular camp shirt. Their stores which they properly call "islands" also has a cigar shop, home goods, everything perfect for the beach, and a whole line of ready-to-wear. For Fashion's Night Out, Tommy Bahama will be offering a limited edition scarf with every purchase $50 or more. (While Supplies Last. One Per Person.) So get there quick to get yours.
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| Bottom Right: New Looks for Fall Bottom Left: The Gift with Purchase Scarf for FNO |
I'm so super excited for Fashion's Night Out! It seems like every year it gets bigger and better. Click here for a full list of FNO events happening at the King of Prussia Mall. Make sure you follow me on instagram @fashionofphilly, for more photos from behind the scenes. Also make sure you stop by Aveda and say Hello. Can't wait to see you there!
Rent The Runway Blogger's Event
If you haven't had a chance to check out RentTheRunway.com, it's every girls dream come true. Rent the Runway offers designer fashion delivered to your doorstep (or anywhere else) for 10-15% off the retail price. You can rent the dress and accessories for 4 or 8 days with prices starting at $40 for dresses and $10 for accessories. The site has over 150 of the hottest designers with 25,000 dress and over 4,000 accessories so the possibilities are endless. This brilliant idea was thought of by Jennifer (Jenn) Hyman and Jennifer (Jenny) Fleiss. Their dream was to bring designer fashion into every woman's home a reality and they succeed.
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| RentTheRunway.com |
Here's how it works:
- Create a free profile.
- Select the dress and/or accessories you love and a date of arrivial. Rent the Runway also has beauty products, intimate apparel or fashion solutions available for purchase.
- To make sure the dress fits perfectly, you get to select two sizes and even a back-up style for an additional $25. If you need help along the way, you can contact your personal expert stylist by phone, email, or live chat six days a week.
- After you're done with the dress, simply return it in the prepaid packaging and ship it away. Don't worry, they take care of the dry cleaning!
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| Fajr Muhammad of Stylish Thought, Some Goody Bags, and Great Nosh |
I recently got the chance to enjoy an evening mixer, sponsered by RentTheRunway.com. We got to talk about the company, ohh and ahh over the dresses and accessories, and network as well. We chatted about how great the site is for any special occasion. From weddings and graduations to a cocktail parties and vacations. If you ever tried RentTheRunway.com, tell me your feedback. If you haven't, still let me know what you think.
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| Top: Chatting with fellow blogger Caitlin Sweeney of Cobblestone and Stilettos Right: A stroll with Vanessa, the co-founder of Bisoux Jewelry Left: Posing with Fajr |
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| Top: Talking with Michael Mandola of RentTheRunway.com Left: Drinks with Bintu of The Buzz Klub Right: Networking with the other half of Bisoux Jewelry, Stephanie Lee |
A Day at Sina Marie Salon
Sina Marie Salon is the ultimate salon to get that total city spa experience. From the minute you walk into the door, you're transported into the whimscal, fun world of Sina Marie. The salon is named after the Master Stylist herself, who has been in the Cosmetology business for over 10 years. The stylists take care of everything from manicures to coloring and everything in between.
We began my transformation with a relaxing "Glass Slipper" manicure to shine up my dull hands. Sina applied one of her own multi-functional organic products called Bling-tini to make them soft and bright. I found this beautiful golden polish with just the right amount of shine. After the polish was set, it was time for some "Junkie Nails", which is pretty much a collage of 3-D designs customize for your nails.
With nails looking great, it's time to move on to the hair. Sina started out with a consultation to find out what I liked and don't like. Then she shared her suggestions. After that, I put all my trust into Sina's hands, literally. My hair was deep conditioned, dyed, and cut and I couldn't be more happy with the finishing look. She even let me add a Funky Chunk color streak of blue for an added dose of edge, without being over the top. Be sure to check out the video at the end of the post to view my trip from beginning to end.
Sina Marie Salon - 1513 Spring Garden St., Philadelphia, PA (267) 773-7760
I had so much fun with Sina and her award winning junior stylist, Tasha during my transformation! If you are ever in the need of a make-over, I definitely recommend going to Sina Marie Salon, where they specialize in "Creating Individuality". Make sure you "Like" their Facebook Page to stay up to date on their latest specials and events including a "Pamper Me Pretty" party on September 1st. They also have a New Client Menu to help you take advantage of most of their services at great prices. So call them now and set up your appointment.
Henri Bendel Grand Opening at the Cherry Hill Mall
This past Thursday, Henri Bendel hosted a fun filled grand opening at their newest store in the Cherry Hill Mall. The store was truly a girl's playground with waiters offering champagne, a cool flip book photo booth, and tons of accessories to gasp over. If you haven't shopped at Henri Bendel, it's the perfect place to find that wow accessory for any outfit. They also have a wide variety of luxury travel pieces, home goods, and gifts without having to break your budget.
While there I got to chat with the President of Henri Bendel, Chris Fiore, who says the company plans on opening 5 new stores nationwide and eventually expanding worldwide. How incredible is it for them to bring this New York landmark to the South Jersey area. There were so many pieces that I fell in love with from the Deluxe Hand Me Down Stack Ring to the Brown & White Too Cool For School Tweed Crossbody. Next time you're in the area, check out Henri Bendel's signature brown and white stripes and find your favorite piece!
Tortoise & Blonde at Duke & Winston
Launch Event
Friday was the launch party for Tortoise & Blonde at Duke & Winston. Tortoise & Blonde offers eyewear that is fresh and modern with a twist of vintage flair. Duke & Winston, located in Northern Liberties, is the company's 2nd location in the country to carry the brand, but if you can't make it to the store they offer an at home try-on program, too. Tortoise & Blonde believes that eyeglasses should be viewed like any other fashion accessory and with pricing starting at $77, you can get two for the price you would normally pay for one designer pair. My favorite style is the Nottingham in the Ice frame for $97. It's just what I've been searching everywhere for because of its versatility and instant style. There are tons of styles to choose from that can be made as prescription glasses or sunglasses, so the possibilities are endless. Be sure to stop by Duke & Winston or check out the tortoiseandblonde.com for more info.
Tiffany's Rubedo Launch Party
Last week, the Fashion of Philly team was invited to attend the Launch Party for Tiffany's newest collection Rubedo, hosted by Philadelphia Style Magazine and Tiffany's Walnut Street location. We were first introduced to the collection during the Fashion Now Blogger's Sip n Stroll Event at the King of Prussia Mall. The Rubedo Collection is a combination of gold, silver, and cooper metals available in 19 styles which were on display around the store and worn by lovely in-house models. The pieces range from $200 to $8000 and for this year only each piece comes inscribed with a Tiffany's signature. Many of Philadelphia's elite were in attendance including former offensive linemen, Brian Baldinger, Publisher of Philadelphia Style Magazine, John Colabelli and Visual genius Michael Deluca to name a few. The food was delightful thanks to The Palm Philadelphia, the drinks were wonderful, courtesy of Finlandia Vodka and the deserts were yummy thanks to Whipped BakeShop. The beautiful Rubedo collection is worth a stop at your nearest Tiffany's location and any piece would make a perfect timeless gift for that special someone or graduate in your life.
Young Couture Mag Launch Party
Young Couture Magazine held its launch event on Saturday November 12th at the beautiful Comcast Center in downtown Philadelphia. It was a celebration of art, fashion,and music. The event was the idea of Amurri Lauren who is the founder and creative curator of Young Couture Magazine. She revolves her world in thefashion and marketing business and shows her passion for the “aesthetically gifted”. Her main goal is to put Philadelphia fashion on the map and she is in the process of having a Look Book just showcasing the fashion of Philadelphia and urban culture. She wants to inspire others to follow their passion and claims that it is ok to be different. She also likes to help others as the proceeds from the event went towards the Juvenile Diabetes. The combination of Young Couture Magazine and Sony equals nothing but a successful event.
-- Shaniece Cole
Philly Fashion Week Black Tie Affiar
Art, Beats, Eats One Year Anniversary 5.1.2011
Philly Fashion Week Couture Show 2.26.11
Philly Fashion Week ended with a Couture Fashion that brought the audience to their feet. Designs by Lara wowed us with her Fantasy Collection while Vintage Tuxedo displayed how a well-dressed man is put together. Here is a video collage of photos I took of the collections which also made me really realize my need to invest in better equipment but hey, I did the best I could with what I have. I hope you enjoy!
Abstract Thought Stop, Look, Listen Event 2/25/11
Abstract Thought hosted a "Stop, Look, Listen" Event at the Exit Skate Shop on Friday, February, 25th. The event was a combination of a preview of their Spring/Summer Collection and fresh, new music from local artists. The "Look" preview consisted of the "UP" tee, which owner Bill Nearn describes as an interpretation of the only direction in which the company is headed and their "New-trition Facts" tee showing a chart on what makes up the Abstract customer. The name "New"trition is also given to a music concert being held on March 12th presented by Abstract Ent. & Ed Brown. The "Listen" part of the night included dope music spun by DJ Aye Boogie and from independent artist Aziz Collins, Bones HR, and The Class Pres. Each artist previewed a few of their tracks, explained the meaning it, and looked for input from the audience. The rest of the event was made up of mingling, networking, and purchasing. I thought the event was very creative and introduced everyone to something new. If you missed this one, I recommend you check out the next one! For more information on Abstract Thought go to ImAbstract.com
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| DJ Mr. Hollywood |
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| Model wearing Patrick Exclusive |
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| Model wearing Mike Thomas |
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| Model wearing Fashion by Lara |
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| Model wearing AmareSinh |
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| Designer Mike Thomas with Model |
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| Model wearing Mike Thomas |
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| Designer Lara Cott with Model wearing the Pheonix Dress from the Fantasy Collection |
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| Left: Emil DeJohn, Fashion Design Instructor Right: Nigel Richards, Owner of 611 Lifestyle |
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| Honoree and Owner of Showroom 77, Engela Edmunds |
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| Honoree John Colabelli, Publisher of Philadelphia Style Magazine |
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| Honoree in behalf of Traci Lynn Jewelry |
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| Me with Kevin Parker |
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| Me with Kerry Scott |
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| Me and AmareSinh |
I got a golden ticket! okay so maybe it's not to a chocolate factory run by a kooky man named Willie, by but it was to the Anml Hse 3 Year Anniversary Party. On January 22, I scooped up my girl Jennifer and off we went to experience the craziness that is Anml Hse. A urban clothing company based out of Philly, founded in 2007 by, then college students, Johnny Rabbit, Panda Reemy, and Cool Calm Coon. The brand collarbates their love of visual arts with fashion putting a spin on some well-known companys such as Nike. The evening was full of entertainment with performances by Lil' Friday, Theo Martins, Gilbere Forte, and DJ Coolhand Luke. Here's a few pics for your enjoyment.
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| Chillin Wit the Mascots |
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| Strike a Pose Jacket & Shirt from Metro Park, Tights from Conway, Boots from Steve Madden |
Earthly Beauties Fashion Spotlight & Shopping Extravaganza 12/11 & 12/12
Saturday I went to the Earthly Beauties Fashion Spotlight & Shopping Extravaganza located in CitySpace, a Victorian style mansion on 2200 Walnut Street. The event was a great opportunity to shop the collections of local designers and two of Philadelphia's hottest indie boutiques, Bus Stop Boutique and Arcadia Boutique. All types of items were available for purchasing from one-of-kind jewelry by ZivileArt to the fun, whimsical collection of Ivy Glass. There was music, light hors d'oeuvres and refreshments, also a fashion show that took place at 5 p.m. The event is free and there is a raffle with three great gift baskets filled with gift certificates and pieces from some of the designers. Raffle tickets are one for $5 or 3 for $10 and the proceeds are donated to Career Wardrobe, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting women in their transition to work by providing professional attire. If you missed it today don't worry, the event takes place again tomorrow from 12 to 6 p.m. so go check it out!
L.A. FITNESS BODY ROCK SPORT TRUNK SHOW 12/09/10
On Thursday, Decmeber 9th, I attended the Body Rock Sport by Kelly Dooley Trunk Show at the L.A. Fitness in Mt. Laurel, NJ. The event was hosted by Bryanna Morris, who did a great job with providing potential customers with knowledge of the brand and it's many sell-able features. Seven models were also on site to showcase the various looks and show off it's versatility, whether it was for working out or just hanging out. Here's a few photos taken from the event for you to enjoy!
THE DNTN BRAND POP-UP SHOP GRAND OPENING 11/26/10
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| The J.J. Bear is The DNTN Brand Mascot |
On Friday, November 26, 2010, The DNTN Brand, the online shop known for the freshest styles in men’s apparel opened it’s first pop-up store in the University City neighborhood of Philadelphia at 3808 Lancaster Ave. I got to attend the Grand Opening of The DNTN Brand pop-up shop. The music was banging, the bottles were poppin, and the snacks were yummy as shoppers got to view the collection first hand. Creative director and artist Don Scott and other members of the brand were there to talk to fans of the line. The DNTN Brand also introduced “Art by Don Scott” within the store. Proceeds from an on going silent auction of “D1” an original piece of art from Don Scott’s collection will go to Art-Reach. This Pop-Up store is a special way to bring together all the aspects of The DNTN Brand, from it’s website, it’s new collection, it’s one of a kind visual artwork, and it’s newly adopted Arts for Social Change Youth Initiative.
Art- Reach is a Philadelphia organization solely devoted to bringing arts and cultural opportunities to underserved audiences. Each year Art- Reach’s services enable over 15,000 people with disabilities or economic disadvantages to enjoy the beauty and richness of the arts.
Here are some pictures from the event thanks to brand manager, Shaun Miller and myself...Enjoy!!
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| The DNTN Brand Store featuring Art by Don Scott |
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| Customers enjoying their DNTN Brand purchases |
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| (L to R) Kris Johnson American Dreaming Magazine Sponsorship Director, Designer Shavonne Deann, Don Scott The DNTN Brand Creative Director, Brandon Davis American Dreaming Magazine Editor-in-Chief, joy Hoagland |
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| Original Artwork, D1 by Don Scott |
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| Cupcakes by CupKake Kouture |
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| Hoodies from the Collection |
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| The DNTN Brand Duffle Bag |
Do you know of any fashion related events happening in the city??? Shoot me an email at stewartbrittiny@fashionofphilly.com to have it featured on Fashion of Philly!
