Fashion week came and went, giving local Austinites a taste of local and nationwide fashion. However, Electric Frenchie owner, Chonie Bradley, continues to give us garments from a variety of fashion designers, but emphasizes her love for Austin fashion.

Electric Frenchie is an online retailer that picks up unique pieces that most boutiques don’t. Bradley aims to choose items in consideration of her target market, which are women between the ages of 15-45. Her main focus is on young women who have just exited college and are entering the workforce, but want to remain stylish on a budget.

“I basically pretend like I had a million dollars and select garments that appeal to me,” said Bradley. Half of her inventory are designer pieces that remain on the sale racks and the other half are fresh new pieces from upcoming designers. A little something for every fashionista!

On Saturday, Sept. 10^th, guests enjoyed a preview of Electric Frenchie’s fall inventory at the Electric Frenchie trunk show at Enzo Lounge. In addition to showcasing her latest inventory, Bradley also launched her newest project, Austin Fusion Magazine. Austin Fusion Magazine is an online magazine dedicated to discovering the hidden talents of fashion, art, and entertainment within Austin. Bradley is the Director of Business and Web Development; we look forward to following their influence on the Austin arts scene.  We had a great time working with Chonie Bradley and all the fashionable guests who came to mix and mingle while enjoying cocktails. Other designers who showcased included jewelry by Gay Isber Designs and Stella & Dot.

Model Clarice Jenkins looked absolutely fabulous while posing in Electric Frenchie merchandise throughout the room. We look forward to seeing the popularity of Electric Frenchie arise and love Bradley’s passion to keep Austin fashionable.

To get the latest from Electric Frenchie visit their website or LIKE them on Facebook!

Photos by Peter Tung Photography.

This year marked the 3rd year for Austin to produce and host its very own fashion week and I must say that improvements have really been made since last year’s events.

It was a really busy week for LUXE PR. As VIP ticket holders this year, we really took the opportunity to attend as many fashion shows and events as possible.

Saturday: First we started with the Kick Off event, I was a little skeptical about the location, however Caplin Miller Events really made it work. It was so good to see everyone out and about, all supporting the fashion industry. You could tell from day one that this year was going to be a great AFW!

Sunday: We attended the sold out Fashion Brunch at Flemings at the Domain benefiting Dress for Success Austin. It was a fantastic turn out and a huge success between the fashion, brunch, and fundraising.

Monday: We attended the much-anticipated Dean Fredrick Party, THE HEIST 2, benefiting Dress for Success Austin. We were really excited to have teamed up with Dean on this event. There was so much hype and buzz from last year’s event, we just couldn’t say no. We collected over $1,300 in donations or Dress for Success Austin; thanks again to everyone who came out!

Tuesday: Tuesday was the jewelry showcase at the Driskill Hotel with our client Ana Reign. There was so many different styles of jewelry, it was so much fun! The set up looked very chic and modern, which anyone who knows us, knows that we love modern chic.

Wednesday: We attended the swimwear and underwear presentation at the Driskill Hotel. This was the first night that we weren’t working on behalf of a client, so it was a pleasure to just go out and enjoy the show. My favorites for the night were La Perla and James Tudor. Both are really great quality brands.

Thursday: One of my favorite events the whole week was the private trunk show featuring Celestino Couture. Ron King hosted this event at the Four Seasons Residences. The space was amazing, the collection was elegant, and the people were fantastic. Great networking!

Friday: Friday was the classy couture runway show. These designers were all so amazing! All of their collections were consistent and well put together. It was so refreshing to see some amazing talent.

Saturday: Saturday was a very busy day for us. I was excited to partner with Ron King, stylist to AFW Award show host Kim Iversen. Ron King was able to pull one of Ana Reign’s rings for Kim’s red carpet look. We were excited that Ana Reign was nominated for Best Overall Designer. The awards show started with much anticipation, however, after the first two hours I was completely detached. My suggestion for next year is to cut the award shows content down to no max of 3 hours. I was so drained that I only attended the after party for about 30 minutes.

The biggest criticism that I’ve heard about AFW is that it does not support the local Austin fashion scene enough. People say it highlights and capitalizes on the talents and fame of outside designers, leaving Austinites to host their events in random bars, clubs, and salons. Here is my take on this issue: AFW provides the opportunity for people within the Austin fashion scene and beyond to come together, network, and build strategic working partnerships. It simply provides the opportunity for people to build something. Will there ever be tons of buyers, fashion press, stylists, and celebrities flocking to our city to attend AFW? No. Don’t pay a participants fee and expect to get the bells and whistles. AFW is what you make of it. There are some really amazing, well-connected people working in this business, its all about putting yourself out there and making things happen. When participating in AFW, the top 3 things to a successful fashion week are:

1. Networking

2. Strong social media campaign

3. Great press outreach

I can’t wait to see the creative work that all the new and upcoming designers come up with during the next year for AFW 12. With the constant launching of new technology, I’m expecting fashion week next year to be even bigger, edgier, and plenty exciting.

David Anthony Martinez

This year I started my 4th of July celebrations off a little early. On Thursday, I met up with a few friends for dinner and drinks. Susana Garza, owner of Austintatious Deals, recommended we go to Vivo’s new north Austin location. At first I was a little hesitant because of how far north it is, but I wasn’t disappointed. The setting was unlike anything I’ve ever been to before; it was sexy, intimate, and captivating . From the display of the lighting to the elegance of the roses placed throughout the room, this restaurant is definitely eye-catching. The food was fantastic and the drinks were tasty! Chef Paul Peterson really knows how to prepare some amazing dishes. My favorites of the night were the brisket tacos paired with a cucumber margarita. Fortunately for me, we had Hope Green of HGreen Photography there to snap a few photos.  If you are looking for somewhere new to try, I would recommend that you check out Vivo north Austin location.

-David Anthony Martinez

To our friends, clients, fans, and sponsors,

Wow! We have hit our year in business and what a wonderful year it has been. We are so excited that each of you were able to follow us on this journey in our first year of business. We can not thank you enough for the support we have received and the connections we have made. It’s been quite a year, and we are looking forward to several more!

Our brilliant Birthday Bash Sponsors:
ILD Lighting
BoConcept Austin
Austintatious Deals
Frank
Events by Decisions
Kitten Lounge
Tito’s Vodka
MMC Designs

As a fashion journalism graduate, I found my perfect niche interning with LUXE PR & PROMOTIONS. I have witnessed an example of true fashion importance during the time that we have been working at the Dress for Success Austin office. One of their newest non-profit clients, Dress for Success Austin, is the perfect fit for LUXE PR.

Dress for Success Austin is a non-for-profit organization targeted at disadvantaged women who are determined to enter the workforce. DFS strives to assist in providing economic independence for women who showcase motivation to want to “go places and go strong,” just like the DFS motto claims. Clients are referred from non-profit and government agencies and then proceed to an interview from DFS. They receive a personal stylist from the team of dedicated DFS volunteers to choose their attire. Not only does DFS provide the fashionable look for an interview, but they also offer access to a Career Center where they can get help to build confidence and gain advice and guidance for entering the professional field. Dress for Success Austin also helps instill financial responsibility in their clients within their financial literacy program.

Many believe that Dress for Success Austin is just another organization in need of clothing donations. However, Dress for Success Austin not only provides the appropriate attire to go out and discover new opportunities, but it also instills confidence, hope, and security in their clients.

“Thanks for everything Dress for Success,” said client Joanne. “You all were so wonderful to me and made me feel real good about myself inside and out.” Client, Deborah, expresses her gratitude and stresses how much fun she had throughout the process. ”Yesterday was the BEST day I have had since I don’t know when.  I have hit many walls and hard knocks to get where I am and meeting you and basking in your kindness was a real soft place to fall. It was fun, uplifting and you gave me confidence!” These uplifting notes makes working with this organization a true pleasure. Helping others begin an independent lifestyle by moving fashion forward is the least that we can do.

Inside the doors of the Dress for Success building, you will find rows and rows of business attire draped against each other, all of which are donated. Alongside business suits, there are shoes stacked up against one another. Accessories are provided and matched up with attire, suitable for the individual and their interview. Undergarments are available, as well as basic necessities like shampoo and conditioner, toothbrushes, body wash, lotion, and make up.

During the first thirty days upon employment, DFS focuses on their clients and implement encouragement through their publication, Steps to Success: A Guide to Success in the Workplace. DFS relies on donations and grants to fulfill their financial needs. Disadvantaged women wouldn’t have the opportunity to showcase a well first impression in job interviews without the help of those who donate to their cause. Presentation is key and with the help and support of Dress For Success Austin, these women have the opportunity to change not only their lives, but to impact the lives of their children and loved ones as well.

To learn more about Dress For Success Austin and to learn about how you can donate please visit www.dressforsuccess.org/austin.

Kristen Morado
LUXE PR & PROMOTIONS Intern

We are very excited to have partnered with Dress for Success for our first annual Birthday Bash on June 9th! We are asking that all guests please bring a prepaid giftcard or check of any denomination to be donated to Dress for Success Austin. It is with your donation that Dress for Success Austin can continue to change the lives of women in our city.

To our friends, clients, fans, partners and sponsors,

Wow! This week marks our one year anniversary and what a wonderful year it has been. We are so excited that each of you were able to follow us on this journey in our first year. We can not thank you enough for the support we have received and the connections we have made. It is your never ending support that has helped get us here. We have had some wonderful events, some great success with our clients, and built amazing partnerships. It’s been quite a year, and we are looking forward to several more!

Thank you, thank you, thank you,
Anthony & Robyn

Austin Fashion Night Out, September 10, 2010
Fashion Rocks The Belmont, October 9, 2010

{i.thee.wed.} An Evening of Fashion & Inspiration, January 27, 2011
aGLIFF Red Carpet Gala, February 27, 2001
Fashion Talks Austin with Celestino Couture, May 6, 2011

We are going to be celebrating our Birthday Bash on June 9th at BoConcept. Check back soon for pictures and details of our wonderful sponsors!

Cerulean blue walls, ostrich seats, wine ready on ice, and a team of extremely talented hair stylists, the Ron King Salon provides their clients with the ultimate VIP treatment and service, that has received nationwide attention.

Just inside the glass doors of the Ron King Salon, located at the Four Seasons Residences in Austin Texas, Gabriel Alvarez, the one whom clients refer to as “the stylist with the painted nails,” demonstrates some outstanding charisma and promising talent.

Born and raised in San Antonio Texas, Alvarez attended high school at Harlandale High. After graduation Alvarez proceeded to Trinity Valley Community College and finished with an Associate Arts degree. He continued school further at Stephen F. Austin University, where he studied fashion merchandising. With a creative mind and passion for the beauty industry, Alvarez continued his education and enrolled in the Avenue Five Institute. Alvarez found the school to be the most attractive and suitable to his needs with their educated instructors and modern look. Gabriel graduated from the institute in August of 2010.

“I came into the interview super determined,” said Alvarez. “I’m smart, dedicated, have a strong personality, and have high goals.” Salon owner Ron King revealed interest in Gabriel right away as he asked for his availability and added, “by the way, I love your nail polish.” At 24 years of age, Alvarez has worked with Ron King since August 2010. Originally styling at Bo Salon in SoCo, Alvarez transferred to the Ron King Salon in September, with their grand opening following in December.

With love and passion for beautiful hair, Alvarez doesn’t define his job as “work.” “I can be creative and make people happy,” said Alvarez. “It’s not work to me, I absolutely love the place that I am today.” Alvarez believes that hair is the most important accessory. He found his niche at the salon, loving their mission of going above and beyond for their clients. “We go the extra mile to ensure extra satisfaction with our clients,” said Alvarez. His love of being a part of the team of stylists shows through his lively and uplifting personality.

His style reflects his eye for fashion and knowledge of currents trends. Always looking prim for work, he wears a Fendi watch, black skinny pants, and bright neon green nail polish, ready for his next client. He’s consistently aspiring to do more with his artistic expertise and hopes to one day become a celebrity stylist.

“I would love to teach my own techniques in the future and become a household name,” said Alvarez. “To have my own brand and exhibit beautiful hair extensively throughout the nation.” Although he has many favorite trends, he emphasizes his favorite. “Be your own star and be happy with yourself,” he said with a grin. “That’s most definitely got to be my favorite trend.”

A note from LUXE PR & PROMOTIONS;

We wanted to write about Gabriel because there is something to be said about being so new to the beauty industry, and being able work amongst some of the cities elite. Gabriel’s passion, talent, and attention to detail comes through with ever client. We had the pleasure of getting to know Gabriel as we observed his craft. We interviewed him during an appointment with our intern, Kristen Morado. We are excited to see where this talent takes Gabriel. It is refreshing to learn about new prosperous talent in an industry that can be so small.

*This blog was co-written by LUXE PR & PROMOTIONS intern Kristen Morado

The celebrities were out last night to celebrate the Met Gala and honor Alexander McQueen. It is an understatement to say that this is one of the most fashionable events of the year, and that was proven on the red carpet.

The Classics – One of our favorite looks of the evening. These women were regal, breathtaking, and every bit timeless. Pictured below is Gisele Bundchen wearing Alexander McQueen, Ashley Greene in Donna Karan, and Taylor Swift in J. Mendel.

Sarah Jessica Parker in Alexander McQueen Fall 2005, Nicole Ricci in Jason Wu, and Dianna Kruger in Jason Wu.

A touch of Spring – Zoe Saldana in Calvin Klein Collection, Jennifer Lopez in Gucci (Her H. Stern jewels were valued at over $475,000), and Brooklyn Decker in Michael Kors.

Influenced by the Royals – Demi Moore in Prabal Gurung wearing a headpiece by Philip Treacy, Janelle Monae in Chanel, and Serena Williams in Oscar de la Renta and a Philip Treacy hat.

The Risk Takers – These women all did something different, and it paid off. Pictured below is Miranda Kerr in Marchesa, Liv Tyler in Givenchy, and Blake Lively in Karl Lagerfeld.

Mary Kate Olsen in Givenchy, Jennifer Hudson in Vera Wang, and Rihanna in Stella McCartney.

The Worst Dressed – These ladies just missed the mark. Pictured below are Alicia Keys, Kirstend Dunst, and Beyonce.

Our other worst dressed picks of the night are Ashley Olsen, Kristen Stewart, and Christina Ricci.

What did you think about the Met Gala and what everyone was wearing? Who are your picks for best and worst dressed?