Alright Ladies! I debuted these Cardigans at the Mindy Maes Market, and they sold out in the first 2 hours of being open! Soooo, I have gone and placed another order for ya, and they will be in, next week. How do you get one? Call me, Email me, or head out to the Trick or Treat Bootique on the 17th. These will not last, I promise~ They have Rhinestone Fleur De Lis on the front and a big one on the back. You can wear draping, or tie at the waist! These are $30 and oh sooooo hot!
Also available are these White Fleur De Lis, burnout, long sleeved tshirts. So light, and comfy! Priced at $25, yes only $25!!! Get yours while I have them in stock!
Check out this hot Black long Sleeve number! Cross rhinestone details, and of course, the oh so classic BLACK! These also only $25.
Come check us out soon, as these new items WILL NOT LAST!
Alright Ladies! I debuted these Cardigans at the Mindy Maes Market, and they sold out in the first 2 hours of being open! Soooo, I have gone and placed another order for ya, and they will be in, next week. How do you get one? Call me, Email me, or head out to the Trick or Treat Bootique on the 17th. These will not last, I promise~ They have Rhinestone Fleur De Lis on the front and a big one on the back. You can wear draping, or tie at the waist! These are $30 and oh sooooo hot!
Also available are these White Fleur De Lis, burnout, long sleeved tshirts. So light, and comfy! Priced at $25, yes only $25!!! Get yours while I have them in stock!
Check out this hot Black long Sleeve number! Cross rhinestone details, and of course, the oh so classic BLACK! These also only $25.
Come check us out soon, as these new items WILL NOT LAST!
Despite the sheer exhaustion that lingers over the l'étoile staff post-fashion week, the show must go on! And go on it does with a busy weekend that's majorly heavy on the awesome -- we can't help but perk up! Thursday alone is jam packed with enough cool events to convince us it's Friday, while Friday and Saturday, of course, hold their own in the fun department. We're especially giddy this week, however, as we've scored a coveted spot on the Metro 100 List -- a roster of the 100 coolest things in the Twin Cities according to Metro Mag. We've also received a nod to our Editor in Chief in Minnesota Monthly's "Best of 2009" issue. We feel so fancy! Click HERE to read all about it.
xo-l'étoile
THIS PAST WEEK ON L'ETOILE:
Check out numerous recaps of MNFashion Week by our diligent and tireless fashion editor, Jahna Peloquin, HERE, HERE , HERE and HERE. And mini one from Kate HERE.
See MNFashion Week photos by our staff photog, Stephen Stephens HERE.
Peep Rob Callahan's recap of the Upper Midwest Emmys HERE.
Read Kate Iverson's interview with Nobody writer/director Rob Perez HERE.
Check back later for more recaps and images from our Styling Challenge at Charmed Life!
THURSDAY OCTOBER 1ST
Metro 100 Party
@ 13th Avenue & University Northeast Minneapolis
6-9pm / $40
Celebrating the release of their annual Metro 100 issue (in which we're included!) focusing on the cities' best food, art, and fashion, Metro Magazine is hosting a fall block party like none other at the exciting cultural hub spanning 2 blocks on 13th Avenue in Northeast. There’s a critical mass of artistic awesomeness happening in this area, and Metro invites you all down to party with the galleries and merchants on the hottest block in town, along with epic local rockers Solid Gold no less! Sample delicious fare from the Modern Café and Anchor Fish & Chips (which will finally be opening this weekend, yay!) Indulge in beer and martini samples, hit up Shuga Records for an all day musical affair celebrating the opening of their new stage, and catch a special mini-performance of the Ritz Theater’s Valley of the Dolls. They’ll even give you a map to explore the neighborhood. See you there!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE METRO MAG SITE
THURSDAY OCTOBER 1ST
Pretty Little Houses: Joynoelle Runway Show
@ Gallery 13 811 LaSalle Ave Minneapolis
7pm/$35 general admission/$100 VIP
Designer Joy Teiken hosts this fashion, dance and art event showing off her Spring 2010 ready-to-wear and bridal collections. Get there by 8pm to see the fashion show. The art show is curated by Gallery 13, munchies are provided by Cocoa & Fig, drinks by Crispin and dance entertainment is courtesy The Minnesota Schubert Center, which is also benefiting from the proceeds of this event. A little something for everyone.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE JOYNOELLE SITE
THURSDAY OCTOBER 1ST
Poster Mart/Died Young, Stayed Pretty
@ Walker Art Center 1750 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis
5pm-9pm/free
The Walker does a great job of tying in the local scene with their special events. To accompany Sound Unseen’s presentation of Died Young, Stayed Pretty, a documentary about underground poster culture, the Walker hosts local rock poster collectives Flora Fauna and Spy Print Lab. Minneapolis native and Village Voice cartoonist Ward Sutton pieces are on display and up for grabs. Bring your pocketbook, buy some prints, and after the film, bring them to the after party at the Kitty Cat Klub to show off to your jealous friends.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 1ST
Nobody: World Premiere
@ State Theater 824 Hennepin Ave. Minneapolis
7:30 pm/ $16.50-26.50 general, $10 student rush tickets, $86.50 VIP
Us MPLS peeps love (and I mean L-O-V-E) our city. And we go even wilder when we seen its beautiful turf on the big screen. So, it's no wonder that the premiere of the latest comedy from screenwriter Rob Perez (40 Days and 40 Nights) is just cause for rolling out the red carpet. The film – shot on location in good ol' MN – follows the befuddled sculptor/geeky hot-stuff protagonist, Lindeman (Sam Rosen) on his comedic quest for a catalyst of inspiration. On his journey, Lindeman tries his luck at the city's goth, gay, vegan and intellectual scenes, and we can't wait to see what local digs Perez threw in the film. Nobody's killer indie soundtrack features new music from Ryan Miller of Guster, and tracks from The Silver Seas, Fruit Bats and Tokyo Police Club to keep audiences' heads bobbing along. Plus, we hear Rob Perez, Ryan Miller, and MPLS-grown actors Josh Hartnett (the film's exec. producer) and Sam Rosen, are all expected to be in attendance for the premiere!
Bonus: A limited # of VIP tickets are available which include premiere VIP seating, a movie poster signed by writer/director and an after-party at Envy with drink and hors d'oeuvres (must be 21+).
Read Kate Iverson's interview with Rob Perez HERE.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 1ST
Project Runway Weekly Screenings
@ Hell's Kitchen 80 S. 9th Street Downtown Minneapolis
8-9pm Fashion Trivia with l'étoile 9-10pm Project Runway 10-11pm Models of the Runway
Come cheer on our hometown boy Christopher every Thursday at Hell's Kitchen -- Ra'mon has been auf'ed but we've got high hopes for Straub! Put on something snazzy and join us for weekly screenings of Project Runway, sponsored by l'étoile and Metro Mag! Show up early from 6-8pm for live music, drink specials and the full dinner menu, then play fashion trivia with Kate and Beth from l'étoile, who will be giving away sweet prizes including a $50 bar tab every week. From 9-11pm settle in and watch back to back eps of Project Runway and spin off show, Models of the Runway, live on Hell's big screen. Enjoy drink specials, fashionable revelry, and damn good food at Hell's Kitchen every Thursday with us! Parking: $5 parking in adjacent lot, or metered street parking.
Bonus: Christopher and/or Ra'mon will be joining us from time to time!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT
THURSDAY OCTOBER 1ST
If I Can't Dance, It's Not My Revolution!
@ Bedlam Theatre 1501 S. 6th St. Minneapolis
10:30pm-2am/$10-15
l’étoile’s favorite radical bookstore needs your help! Arise! Bookstore Collective is a few years away from owning their building, but are having a little trouble paying their rent until then. Not just a bookstore, Arise! houses Women’s Prison Book Project, a library, and a community space for public events. Bands Hot Tony and Tender Meat start the disco dance party to get your cash flowing in their direction. Show up and spill your money out to let them know we love their garden-y backyard parties, their quirky events with cupcakes, their vast zine collection and their no-boss havin’ resource center. In the spirit of Emma Goldman, dance your pants off!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT
THURSDAY OCT 1ST-FRIDAY OCT 3RD
Tapes n' Tapes Minneapolis Tour
10/1 7th Street Entry with Mystery Palace and Lookbook
10/2 Music Box Theater (acoustic show) with Jeremy Messersmith and The Owls
10/3 Turf Club with Chooglin' and Red Pens
9pm / 21+ / $10
If you still haven’t seen em, Minneapolis’ quintessential indie darlings Tapes n’ Tapes are going on a 3-night tour of the TC - the last local shows of the year before the boys start recording their new record. Putting on an especially exuberant show, Tapes never fail to deafen the room with their Pixies-esque floor stompers, fidgety hooks and galvanizing rhythms. Rocking the small stages they got their start on, Tapes will take a turn at the Turf, the Entry, and a special acoustic show at the brand new Music Box Theater.
Here’s a special sneak peek of one if the brand new songs and a taste of what the acoustic show will sound like.
The ever-thoughtful Tapes crew have also thrown together a mixtape of some of their fave local bands for free download just for you!
Bonus points if you can name the sassy l'étoile pal "Insistor" is about!
FRIDAY ART PICK: XAVIER TAVERA: FARSAS
While this amazing at the exhibit at the Weisman has yet to have it's own opening reception (we're rallying to make that happen) we simply must insist that you go check it out. Xavier Tavera is one of Minnesota’s finest portrait photographers whose latest exhibition features three bodies of work in a stunning series illuminating self-identity. Tavera's work always moves us; it's brooding, moody, festive, touching and visually brilliant all at the same time. Go see this exhibit now! l'étoile hearts Tavera!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE WEISMAN SITE
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2ND (THROUGH SATURDAY)
Burlesque of North America Factory Sale
@ First Amendment 1101 Stinson Blvd Minneapolis
Friday 3-8pm / Saturday 12-5pm / Free
Out with the old, in with the new. Rare and classic posters, stickers, T-shirts, CDs and vinyl, all lovingly designed and silk-screened by our pals at Burlesque of North America are on sale at rock-bottom prices to make way for the 2010 models. Stop by their sweet Stinson studio and pick up that poster you’ve had your eye on or that t-shirt that’s been calling your name. Get ‘em while they’re hot!
CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2ND
Art for Choice
@ W hotel 821 Marquette Ave Minneapolis
6:30pm-9:30pm/$25 pre-sale or $35 at the door
Thanks to local artists for making this the sixth year of this event to raise money for Pro-Choice Resources, who provide women and youth with sexual health information and services. If that’s not reason to start bidding on artwork at fraction of the original value, we don’t know what is. Amy Rice, Jennifer Davis, Tara Costello, Nick Harper, Alec Soth, Chris Mars, and about a million other artists donated their works for you to fight over, all in the name of a good cause. DJs Eros and TK spin until the '70s and '80s cover band Bellebottom gets the crowd grooving.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE ART FOR CHOICE SITE
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2ND
Sound Unseen + Vision Models Mixer
@ Vision Models Studio 25 N. 4th St. Suite 501 Downtown Minneapolis
8 pm-midnight/ $3
The Sound Unseen's encompassing culture festival already covers film, art AND music, so why not throw in fashion? Tonight's social mixer is a true eclectic fete where film buffs, fashionistas, and music & art lovers alike can brush talented shoulders in artsy hobnobbing. Groove to hot electro tracks from DJ Real Talk Radio and guests, while enjoying specials on beer and wine and tasty appetizers from Tsunami sushi.
RSVP to soundunseen10@gmail.com to secure your spot on ze list!
For even more Sound Unseen events click below!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE SOUND UNSEEN SITE
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2ND
Pierced Arrows
@ Turf Club 1601 University Ave St. Paul
8pm / 21+ / $7
Dead Moon might not be around anymore, but we can at least see Fred and Toody Cole in their most recent incarnation. Total rock and roll with an edge of sweetness, this long-time rock couple found a drummer and continued the amazingness. Fred has been doing his thing since the '60s, so prepare to see a professional at work.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE PIERCED ARROWS SITE
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2ND (EVERY FRIDAY IN OCTOBER)
Survivors of the Undead Plague
@ Brave New Workshop 2605 Hennepin Ave S Minneapolis
10:30pm / $10
Fake guns! Hilarious creepiness! All month! Ahhhh! Really though, are you prepared in the event of a zombie attack? What about a zombie apocalypse? These educational survival scenarios will give you tips and pointers on what seems to be getting closer every day -- a zombie takeover. A double billing with Creature Feature, who improvise a monster film! Get down there this month — it’s a no-brainer. Runs every Friday in October.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT
FRIDAY OCTOBER 2ND
Get Cryphy
@ First Avenue VIP Room 701 1st Ave N Minnneapolis
10pm / $3 / 18+
It is very important that you go to First Avenue’s Very Important Person Room tonight. Why? Because Plain Ole Bill, Mike 2600, Wezzy F. Baby (Winship), Jimmy 2 Times and Prof will be there, duh! Sweat your lights out this evenin' while dancing to the Cryphaholics special blend of electro, hip hop, Miami bass and a whole lot more. We're pretty sure you'll go insane with dancing pleasure with these boys!
@ Secret Location Minneapolis sign up for info/location HERE
The Hush crew brings us another all night, secret location dance party -- this time featuring Detroit's deep house master Mike Huckaby (Not to be confused with right-wing nutjob politician Mike Huckabee). Jams will be brought and dancing until the wee hours will ensue with additional beats provided by birthday boy Daniel Paul aka Ghetto and the legendary DVS1. Max capacity at this secret spot is 250 -- so get there early to secure your entry.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HUSH SITE
COOL LINK: POSTER CHILD PRINTS
l'étoile loves PCP! No, silly, not the controlled substance (why, what have you heard?), the L.A. based collective, Poster Child Prints! Keeping with our rampant poster art theme this week, this online mecca offers exclusive screenprints designed by rising and established artists -- providing you with a wonderful opportunity to beef up your art print collection in an eclectic range of styles at reasonable prices. A great resource for both the novice art collector and the enthusiastic aficionado, the PCP artists' roster includes legendary artist David Weidman (the illustrator behind the Mr. Magoo cartoon), Dalek, FriendsWithYou, Joshua Petker (love him!), Mike Giant, Mark Mothersbaugh and many more. Each limited edition print is personally signed and numbered by the artist making it that much more awesome. Get your order on now!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE PCP SITE "Sugarwater" by Joshua Petker
SATURDAY OCTOBER 3RD
Renegade Book Sale
@ Northrup King Building 1500 Jackson Street NE #350 Minneapolis
1pm-7pm / Free
This ain't yo momma's book sale, that's for sure. Hosted by the ever-cool Paul D. Dickenson (punk poet, musician, and scene starter -- re: Speedboat Gallery circa 1993) this literary extravaganza will be brimming with tomes of the most edgy variety. Snap up sweet deals on art books, fiction, philosophy, poetry and more, plus CDs, videos, DVDs and LPs priced at $2 or less. Stock up on hip smarty-pants fodder at the NKB today!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT
SATURDAY OCTOBER 3RD
Wing Young Huie's Salon: 2009 Group Photography Exhibition
@ Wing Young Huie's Gallery & Studio 2525 Franklin Ave. S. Minneapolis
6-9 pm / free
When Wing Young Huie isn't busy taking award-winning photographs of urban landscapes, he's mentoring local students of varied ages, genders and backgrounds. Tonight, join Huie as he opens the doors to his private South Minneapolis studio for an opening reception with 100+ emerging artists that this master has taken under his "wing."
CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM
SATURDAY OCTOBER 3RD
Contagious
@ Northrup King Building 1500 Jackson Street NE #145 Northeast Minneapolis
7-10pm / Free
The Northrup King Building is on fire today! Book sales and art shows abound, and throwing their hats into the mix come some of our favorite artistic gals. Join local lovelies Tara Costello, Amy Rice and Jennifer Davis for this one-night-only exhibit of their pretty, pretty work. Definitely girl-centric, the creative creations of these three artists are quirky, sweet, tough and feminine all at the same time -- and most definitely contagious!
CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM
SATURDAY OCTOBER 3RD
Tectonic/Tapolia/Lahr
@ Sellout Gallery Northrup King Building 1500 Jackson St. NE, Studio 456 Minneapolis
6pm-9pm / Free
Sellout Gallery knows good things come in threes -- their shows are always a triumvirate of talent. This month, Bruce Tapola shows paintings and sculpture exploring the meaning of images after their original context is removed. Tectonic Industries’ Danish artist Lars Boye Jerlach and Brit Helen Stringfellow play with modern myths and belief systems of popular culture in their mixed-media installations. and Jason Lahr’s paintings, drawings and installations merge text with appropriated images, focusing on popular culture, film theory and fiction. Neato! Runs through October 24.
CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM
SATURDAY OCTOBER 3RD
The Roaring '20s Party
@ Jungle Red Salon 1362 LaSalle Ave Minneapolis
7-11pm / $5
Throw on your hottest flapper garb and Lindy Hop along to musical troupe Jazz Dudes while munching on apps by Solera at Jungle Red Salon and Gallery’s party celebrating legendary decade the Roaring '20s. Lili's Burlesque will give a special performance, and you’ll also have a chance to meet and greet Uptown city council candidate, Thriftyhipster.com’s Matthew Dowgwillo, who definitely has the l'étoile endorsement!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE JUNGLE RED SITE
SATURDAY OCTOBER 3RD
Lookbook CD Release Party
@ Kitty Cat Klub 14th & 4th Dinkytown
9 p.m. / 21+ / $5
Twin Cities electro darlings, Lookbook, definitely have something to celebrate! Their long-awaited new album will be released for public consumption (and obsession) this very evening at the Kitty Cat Klub. Not only will we be privy to a live performance of the synthtastically moody gorgeousness that the duo is known for, but we'll get to lay eyes on a brand spankin' new music video premiere as well. If we know Lookbook fans (and we know more than a few) this night will find many a starry-eyed lovely dancing their hearts out to the lush and melodic stylings of one of the best bands in town -- and loving every minute of it. Locals Zoo Animal, Shahs, and DJ Skullbuster kick things off.
BONUS: New Lookbook t-shirts!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE LOOKBOOK MYSPACE
SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: WASHED OUT
Washed Out is the one-man dream-pop project from Ernest Greene, who crafts impossibly gorgeous pop that mixes up woozy synthesizers, droney shoegaze textures and funky, sometimes danceable beats, evoking Frenchies M83. For the most part, it’s almost impossible to understand what Greene is singing about, enticing his audience to use their imaginations. With only one 12” and one cassette under his belt, Washed Out is quickly garnering all kinds of buzz - Husker Du’s Bob Mould counts himself a big fan, and so do we!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE WASHED OUT MYSPACE
TUESDAY OCTOBER 6TH
JagerCon: Sci-Fi Tuesdays
@ Clubhouse Jager 923 Washington Avenue N. Minneapolis
Every Tuesday 10 p.m. / 21+ / Free
Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!
Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.
Upcoming Events:
NEW SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED!
Oct 6th: They Live Oct 13th: Planet of the Apes Oct 20th: Communion Oct 27th: Jason X: Jason in Outerspace Nov 3rd: Westworld Nov 10th: Cocoon Nov 17th: Class of Nuke Em' High Nov 24th: Legend
This week's flick is THEY LIVE!
GUEST BLOGGER: A TINY MACHINE
Beth Hammarlund recaps fashion week and really needs a nap.
I need a nap
MNfashion week came to a close this weekend after having one of its most successful and engaging weeks to date. Like many others, I am completely exhausted, and am fantasizing about spending this evening wrapped up in a blanket, drinking tea, and preparing myself for the cold months ahead.
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE TINY MACHINE BLOG
GUEST BLOGGER: LE PETIT CONNAISSEUR
We are always amazed by the energy of our fashion editor, Jahna Peloquin. Check out her weekly fashion roundup on her blog, Le Petit Connaisseur de la Mode!
Local Fashion Round Up 9.28
With MNfashion Week and New York Fashion Week behind us and a surprise elimination of a local from Project Runway, there is a ton of local fashion news in this edition. This past MNfashion Week was quite possibly the biggest and baddest (in a cool, vintage MJ kind of way) yet!
CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE LE PETIT BLOG Image by Kara Nesvig/MN Daily
Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson Contributing Writers: Lacey Prpic Hedtke, Robyn Lewis, Juleana Enright, Rob Callahan, Kate Iverson, Beth Hammarlund, Jahna Peloquin
Friday, September 25: SGSM, Eat Street Fashion, kjurek couture, and Eat Street after party
by Jahna Peloquin
[A kjurek couture look modeled by Tearra; Image by Denis Jeong Plaster Perfecta Pictures]
We’ve hit the weekend at MNfashion Week, meaning there is no conceivable way I can hit every single event. But it won’t be from any lack of trying. First up is the Fresh Fruits Basket Fashion Show at MCAD, part of the annual anime workshop Schoolgirls and Mobilesuits. It’s actually not part of MNfashion Week officially, but it seemed deserving of a spot on my agenda. The show is full of MCAD students, and I’m clearly one of the oldest people in the room. I’m there mainly for the Libertine Asylum, a local trio of neo-Victorian and Lolita designers. Well, not so local anymore – it turns out Megan Bishop and her line Apatico have moved to Seattle. Regardless, it appears she’ll still play a strong role in Libertine’s shows in the future (including the Carpe Noctem show at the Loft on November 6).
[Image by Drayke Larson/Photosynthetique]
The show started off with models dressed in animal pajamas. Samantha Rei of Blasphemina’s Closet filled me in: These are not mere pajamas, but “kigurumi” (or disguise) pajamas. “They are SUPER popular in Japan.” Popular characters include Stitch of “Lilo and Stitch,” Marie from “The Aristocrats,” Pikachu and Winnie the Pooh characters. Apparently, teens and young people wear them in public in Japans with tennis shoes, face jewels and backpacks.
[A look by Heather Luca; Image by Caitlin Longley for MCAD]
In the second half of the show, we get to see the latest from the Libertine ladies, which includes Heather Luca of Scoundrelle’s Keep, Megan Bishop, and Samantha Rei, as well as Atlanta-based Lolita designer Megan Maude. Luca showed her Neo-Victorian line of corsets, bloomer shorts, frilly skirts and blouses. The corsets in particular were a feat of technical skill, including an impressive excess of straps and buckles. Oh, and mini top hats?! Yes, please.
[A look by Samantha Rei; Image by Caitlin Longley for MCAD]
Next up were Megan Bishop and Samantha Rei, who showed mostly looks already seen at last week’s “Couture Noir” show. (Read my recap here ).) Bishop’s line is somewhat more wearable than the others, my favorite look being a pair of blouson suspender shorts made in a dark tweed paired with a sheer blouse. For her part, Rei made a fun addition – menswear, particularly side-button, Edwardian-styled vests. With their powdered hair and sooty eye make-up, the guys looked straight out of “Sweeney Todd.” Rei seems to be particularly adept at creating period looks that have just enough of a smart, modern twist to them to make them unique. Bonus trivia: Did you know Rei is one of the longest-running Lolita designers in the U.S.? She’s been at it for nine years now.
[A look by Megan Maude; Image by Caitlin Longley for MCAD]
In between Samantha Rei and Megan Bishop, we saw the work of Megan Maude. Her ultrafeminine blouses, dresses and skirts were just what you would imagine life-size dolls would wear if they could. I noticed at least two looks I would wear, particularly an adorable white dress - at least if a few of the ruffles were taken down a notch.
[Image by Stephen Stephens/Digital Crush]
The moment the show ended, I rushed off to stop by the Eat Street Fashion show at Head to Toe Salon. Blacklist Vintage, Lost & Found, and Head to Toe each were to put on a mini fashion show that featured their own customers as models. I stopped by the staging area to check out the looks up close, and Blacklist’s steampunk-themed collection appeared the best-styled of the bunch, and even featured – gasp – men in women’s clothing! (Check out Kate Iverson’s recap here.)
[A kjurek couture look modeled by Cana; Image by Denis Jeong Plaster Perfecta Pictures]
I realized I had better head to Kimberly Jurek’s show at the W Hotel before I was too late. I arrived to a warm welcome from Josh Sundberg, the co-owner of Cliché – one of the places Kimberly’s line kjurek couture is sold. I took my front-row seat at the front of the runway next to Angie Hanson, a l’etoile contributor and stylist for the “Couture Noir” and “SCENEaSOTA” shows. Her BF Ken Hannigan manned the turntables under the moniker DJ Real Talk Radio. (Check out a video of the show by Anthem Heart A/V.)
[A kjurek couture look modeled by Liz; Image by Denis Jeong Plaster Perfecta Pictures]
Jurek’s “Exclusively Fall” runway show was executed flawlessly, and showcased her wearable dresses, tops and skirts. Styled with Anna Lee’s new faux-fur babushka hats and luxe hat-wraps for Ruby3 and Zoby’s bold feather earrings, Jurek’s Indian summer collection was given just the right amount of a wintery touch, showing you can indeed wear a halter cowl-neck silk dress into the colder months. I particularly adored a flirty cotton dress in a bright yelow with a surprisingly low back, a full-length yellow dress, and an ivory coat with bell sleeves and an empire waist – one of kjurek couture’s trademark silhouettes. (I happened to be wearing a “vintage” kjurek couture design from Fall 2007 to the show.) I also can’t help but love on the models of the evening, provided by Ignite Models - Lily, Liz, and Tearra are such darlings.
[Jahna, center in kjurek couture coat, with Allison and Jessica of Ignite; Image provided by designer]
As things wound down, I found myself at the after party for Eat Street Fashion at Azia’s Caterpillar Lounge. There I spied a very chic table of peeps, including Blacklist model Zach Pearl, also known as a talented graphic designer, artist and stylist, sitting with the always-chic photographer Joe Kramm, stylist Danica Andler, local designer Laura Fulk, and Joe’s boyfriend Raul Osorio, also a model in the show. After ordering some scrumptious happy hour snacks (a spicy tuna roll and fresh herb roll) and Lychee-tinis with l’etoile’s own Kate Iverson and Beth Hammarlund, and finished off the night by ordering a bottle of the finest cham-pag-ne we can afford to toast Blacklist owners Vanessa Messersmith and Jennifer Sapiro on a job well done.
l'etoile is proud to announce a couple big dealios! This month we've scored some pretty sweet accolades from our pals at both Metro Magazine AND Minnesota Monthly Magazine. Both glossies put out their "Best of 2009" issues and l'etoile made 'em both! Fancy! We'd like to thank our fabulous staffers and readers who so passionately support arts and culture in the Twin Cities -- you guys make the scene! And keep your eyes peeled on l'etoile this year, as we plan to launch a new, more dynamic website before 2010 so we can cram in even more coverage of what makes our cities so special.
Peep the excerpts from both mags below. Thanks Metro and MnMo! l'etoile hearts you longtime! From Metro Magazine's Best of 2009 issue:
Metro 100: l'etoile magazine
Such events are the medium through which boutiques and the local fashion scene collide, especially when they have the stamp of approval from professional party-throwers like (70) l’etoile, an online magazine with the biggest Rolodex in town.“Drawing attention to independent designers and boutiques is a win-win situation,” says l’etoile editor-in-chief Kate Iverson, who helps promote and produce roughly two events a month. “If the little guys can make enough money to grow and evolve, they’ll eventually be spending that money to take their business to the next level, which means buying more goods and services from the medium guys, who in turn buy from the big guys.”
From Minnesota Monthly's Best of 2009 issue: Best Social Director: Kate Iverson
It's commonly believed that Kate Iverson has not slept in years. How else can you explain the fact that the indefatigable Iverson has helped produce or promote just about every cool arts and fashion event in the Twin Cities, from Art-A-Whirl to Project Runway showcases to Fall Fashion Week at International Market Square. All this while compiling a popular weekend guide to hip happenings as the editor of L'etoile magazine online. In everything she does, Iverson strives to open up an oft-exclusive scene to the rest of us. "I want people to be excited about the scene, to feel like they're a part of it," she says. "Events should encompass the cool vibe of the Twin Cities without being pretentious."
Screenplay writer Rob Perez arrived in the Twin Cities two years ago and set up camp in Josh Hartnett's Lake Minnetonka home to pen the indie comedy Nobody, and subesquently fell in love with his surroundings. So much so, that when it came time to scout locations to shoot the flick, Minneapolis/St.Paul was the obvious choice. Best known for writing the romantic comedy 40 Days and 40 Nights, which starred local boy-made-good Hartnett (who aptly enough is executive producer on Nobody), Perez set forth with co-writer Ryan Miller to design a thoughtful film about an artist on a mission of self-discovery, and Nobody was born. His first crack at writing and directing one of his own films proved fruitful -- Nobody opens with plenty of fanfare with a red carpet premiere at the State Theater on Thursday night.
The film stars Minnesota-bred actor Sam Rosen (now of NYC) as Lindeman, an art school student who struggles with his final project -- and hence the meaning of life. Through a series of comedic events and revelations, Lindeman eventually realizes that "he doesn't need to be somebody to be someone." Filmed at numerous recognizable Twin Cities locations such as the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and even featuring a scene at Porky's Drive-In, Nobodyhas plenty of local flavor (and plenty of familiar faces).
The red carpet premiere of Nobody happens this Thursday, October 1st at the State Theater. Tickets are available HERE. Nobody opens to the public with an exclusive engagement at Kerasote's Block E in downtown Minneapolis on Friday, October 2nd -- for more info click HERE.
We chatted with Perez this week about his new film and his appreciation for the Twin Cities....
Your new flick, Nobody, is opening October 1st with a fancy premiere party at the State Theater. How did this labor of love come to fruition and why did you choose to set the film in the Twin Cities?
The short version goes something like this: Nobody came about because I was tired of writing screenplays for a living and wanted to get back to what I set out to do in the first place - make movies. It involved taking a huge paycut and finding a new place to call home, but it was well worth it.
Co-writer Ryan Miller and I choose to set the story in the Twin Cities because the vibe of the film felt right here. The tone of Nobody is sweet and charming and this town has that feeling in spades. Coincidentally, Sam Rosen, my leading man is from here. Josh Hartnett, as everyone knows, is also from here. So as we started scouting locations, everything kept pointing us to the Twin Cities. Even after scouting a few other cities, there was no other place we could shoot the film but here.
Nobody and your first film, 40 Days and 40 Nights, seem to be very different in tone, though they both fall under the "romantic comedy" umbrella. How has your writing evolved and do you ever see yourself settling into a particular niche?
One small correction - Nobody is not a romantic comedy. It's just a comedy that may or may not have some romance in it. My writing has evolved immensely since 40 Days and 40 Nights. I was just a wee pup when that picture was made, but five years from now I expect I will be saying the exact same thing about myself as a writer now. As you know, writing is not something you master - it's one of those student-for-life kind of deals. I expect I've gotten more sure of foot, and more comfortable in my own shoes as I've gotten older. This helps with writing because a point of view is very much at the center of telling a story. At the heart of what kind of writer I am, I'd have to call myself a comedy writer. I love telling stories that make people laugh. Life's plenty hard and if I can give people a reason to smile or, even better, laugh, success!
Not only did you pen the screenplay, but Nobody is also your directorial debut. Wearing both hats pretty much puts you in the superhuman category -- have you slept at all since the project began? How hard was it to make the jump from writer to director?
What is this word 'sleep'? I've heard it used before. It sounds familiar...I remember during the middle of production I was averaging about four hours. I would go to bed around 3ish and often be up by 6. The worst part is your brain is going so hard that even though you're exhausted, it's difficult to slow it down to actually fall asleep. But what you lack in that sharpness that comes from being well-rested, you make up for in adrenaline. you show up on set, see the circus, the 100 or so people and trucks and equipment there to make this film and you instantly find the energy to do the job as best as you can.
Jumping from writer to director was less preparation than I had hoped. As a writer I know structure, character, and arcs, but I didn't know anything about where to put the camera, how to talk to actors, how to lead a crew, editing a film. So you learn as you go. I'm a pretty quick study, so even though directing was the steepest learning curve I've ever been on, I feel like everyday I got better and the fact that this film makes any sense at all (and it does) is a huge triumph of sorts.
We love that Nobody was filmed at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Were you able to incorporate any local artists into the film?
My crazy answer to your good question is: I didn't use any local artists in the film because I didnt use any art in the film - at all. One of the conceits in this film is that I never show any art. maybe an edge of a canvas or a very small part of a sculpture, but never-ever the whole thing. The story is about an artist (a sculptor) and his artist friends (fashion, photographer, performance, etc.) and yet we never see one whole piece of art the entire picture. I do that because this film is not about the art; it's about the artist and his journey. The finished product, the actual art he makes is a bit beside the point.
You wrote Nobody while living in Josh Hartnett's home on Lake Minnetonka. Now that the film has wrapped, do you plan on sticking around the Twin Cities? Have any juicy Hartnett gossip you can spill?
I've been here in the Twin Cities exactly two years and I plan on staying as long as this community will have me. I want to tell stories that make people laugh and smile and feel. If I can do that in this city again (I've now done it once) I will stay and try my hardest to make my next story a little bit better than this one.
Josh Hartnett gossip? Don't you have the tabloids for that? And, if so, I would recommend you believe everything you read in there.
What's next for Rob Perez?
When I first got to town in September of 2007 I was completely inspired by the theater community here and I wrote a play. The story is set here in the back room of a pub and I hope to put it up this winter at Keiran's Irish Pub.
What are your top five favorite things about the Twin Cities?
-Enjoying a Prairie Vodka martini while watching the sunset on Lake of the Isles -Little kids wearing winter jackets that are so puffy their arms stick straight out -Enjoying a beer at the Bryant Lake Bowl -Sunday brunch at the Grand Cafe -Scarves
The red carpet premiere of Nobody happens on Thursday, October 1st at the State Theater. To purchase tickets and for more info click HERE.
Nobody officially opens on Friday October 2nd with an exclusive engagement at Kerasotes Block E. Click HERE for info.
