DC Fashion Week Networking Party

Had an amazing night at the DCFW Networking Party at Tabaq Bistro on U Street. I got to see a few familiar faces, but of course met quite a few more. Upon arrival we got name tags that labeled who we are and our name. For example I was labeled as "Designer" and then my name "Marie" was written below. I felt that it was clever to have these tags because it did make networking a lot easier. I was really expecting just to go in there and put my public relations skills to the test. However, there were only a few designers at the event, and instead of me looking for people, people were looking for me! In addition, as a designer I was again lucky to be able to watch the fashion show right at the front. It was a very eventful evening. I got to meet some very inspiring people and got a lot of advice and input on how I can take my company to the next level. Tonight I will be attending another fashion show by designer Ean Williams. He is also the director of DC Fashion Week this year. He has done a magnificent job putting this week together, and I cannot wait on what the rest of the week has en stored.

MARk

DC Fashion Week Kick Off

So last night was a amazing! I sat front row right at the end. It's quite different to be part of the audience. I'm used to running fashion shows or changing models backstage. The enjoyment and excitement to be able to run a fashion show smoothly is an adrenaline rush. I definitely appreciate the amount of work people put in these shows. But for once I felt relaxed at a fashion show.

After the show was able to meet the designers who have show cased their work. There were 3 designers that have interested me the most:

1. OCO Bags
2. Give it Bag
3. Desired Crochet

OCO Bags is by designer Cynthia O. Her designs are influenced by African prints. This interest me because of a recent project I am currently working on. A friend of mine Jordan had an opportunity to live in Africa for the summer. He brought back his interest of African textiles and stories of their unfortunate lifestyles. Just like designer Cynthia, Jordan created ideas influenced by the culture of African textiles and mixed it with modern America. You can visit their site at http://www.ocobags.com

Give it Bag is a nonprofit organization that uses recycles materials from South Africa. Any company that gives back to the community is always a big plus for me! This company demonstrates innovation, by using these wasted durable materials and creating practical accessories. Each bag is unique with its own number. You can visit their site at http://www.give-it-bag.com

Desired Crochet is by designer Tiombe Johnson. Her craftsmanship is amazing! Being able to look and feel her work was very beautiful. I've had my share of crochet and knitting, however her perfected technique makes these accessories worth it. You can check out her work at http://www.etsy.com/people/DesiredCrochet

Here are some picture form the event!

MARk

DC Fashion Week Starts!

So I'm really excited to be attending DC Fashion Week this year. I hope to get inspired by the exhibits and featured designers. I've never been to a Fashion Week so I'm going to take in as much as I can. I feel that this is a great opportunity for me to get back into the grove. I must admit, my work has been really slow lately, however my networking has not slowed down.

I'm currently shifting directions and editing goals and timelines. I have not lost my focus on becoming a well known designer, and I hope this week can be a start or a great adventure.

I'll keep you updated everyday during fashion week!

MARk

For the Upcoming Valentine's Day Ball

So this weekend Feb. 12th 2011 I and going to be showcasing some of my accessories I have designed and created! The accessories are going to include men's ties, woman's jewelry and hand bags. I'm only going to have prototypes of my work at this event and then have a look book. If people are interested on any of the accessories, I will be able to custom make their piece depending on their preferences.

The men's ties were inspired by Filipino fashion and culture. I used linen fabric and the textures and designs are made by machine stitching. Weaving has always been a great interest to me. I've been coming up with new ways to weave, twist, and fold ribbon. These new techniques I have found influenced my accessories for this collection. Although my MARK has an edgy attitude, I definitely like working with raw organic material for my spring collection. The handbags include duck cloth, burlap, and rope. These materials create a very earthy and creative feel

Below is the information about the upcoming Valentine's Ball. If you are interested, feel free to contact me =)

What: Valentine’s Ball

When: Feb. 12^th, 2011 @ 6pm – 12am

Where: Woodlands, St. Rose of Lima

11701 Clopper Rd.

Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Why: Come together with friends and family to celebrate Valentine’s and help fund for Farmers Cooperative.

Donation: $10

Attire: Formal

Schedule:

Salad Bar – 6-7 pm

Hors d’oeuvres Buffet – 7-9pm

Dessert Bar – 9-11pm

Cash Bar – 6-11pm

Door Prizes – 7pm, 9pm, 11pm

Dance All Night – DJ Music 6pm-12am

Hope to see you there!!!!!

MARk

1st Photo Shoot with Kay Designs

FINALLY! my MARk had an amazing photo shoot with the great Gaper Kay! It took a little while for the shoot to get started, but everything worked out in the end! Amazing amazing amazing photos that I can't wait to put up for my website! Stay tuned! It may be up next week! =)

Mark