fashionweektampabay

Posts Tagged ‘Fashion’

, , , , , , , , , , ,

An Interview With Elizabeth Carson Racker ~ #FashionIsAStory

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 6, 2017 at 4:21 am

Elizabeth Carson Racker

You’ll recognize Elizabeth Carson Racker from the Tampa Bay Fashion Week runways. A crowd favorite over the years, Elizabeth’s keen sense of style and dynamic personality sparkles on stage. In this interview, you’ll get to learn her story…

What inspires you daily?
My daily inspiration is pushing my business.

Original creation by Elizabeth Carson Racker Design

How did you pursue your career field?
At the age of 12 I attended my first Ebony fashion fair runway show. Having a chance to see all these amazing black women and men walk the runway wearing the most lavish garments changed my life. Leaving the show I wanted to be a model, designer, fashion producer; I wanted to do it all; so I did. Throughout middle school and high school I coordinated, produced, and modeled for many fashion shows. To my friends, I was their personal stylist and my closet was their closet. I was always pushing the boundaries of fashion “good and bad.” The pursuit of my career field started with Savannah College of Art and Design. SCAD allowed me to spread my wings and truly find where in the Fashion Industry I belonged. After graduating, I traveled with Ebony Fashion Fair as their featured Designer and Wardrobe Assistant.

How do you or your organization help the Tampa Community?
I believe in giving to my community, each year I donate my time and garments to non-profit and for-profit events within the Tampa Bay area.

If you won a “Best Of” award, in what category would you win?
Best Designer Show (Garments, Music, leave you wanting more)

A well-dressed person will always…
…wear the proper under garments, as the foundation is most important.

Elizabeth Carson Racker Design at New York Fashion Week

Describe your signature style in one sentence.
My signature style is bold, unique and simplistic.

What piece of clothing do you wear every day or what item in your closet can you not live without?
I have a ring that I wear every day and no it’s not a wedding ring… lol! My ring is silver moon shaped which has ivory, yellow and red amber stones. It’s a master piece and everything to me.

Do you have a favorite designer and/or what celebrity is your style icon?
My favorite designer is Donna Karen. Most recently Queen Latifah is my celebrity icon.

What’s your favorite fashion trend?
My favorite fashion trend is when something old/dated is made relevant and current to a younger generation. Like right now the blouse/leotards are everywhere now.

Speed Round
Less or More? More
Favorite Color? Purple
Favorite Store? Nordstrom
Best spot to relax in Tampa? Beach with my Dog “Miss Demi”
Skinny Jeans or Bell Bottoms? Skinny Jeans
Heels or Flats? Heels
Tie-Dye ~ hot or not? It can be hot
Dress, Skirt or Pants? Dress
Hand Bag, Big tote, Cross Body or Tiny Clutch? Big Clutch

Following Elizabeth on Instagram: @ecrdesigns and Facebook

 

Save

, , , ,

Their Mark on Fashion Lives Forever

In Fashion, Trends on August 30, 2017 at 4:43 pm

Most people want to make a difference in the world around them but very few can do it through fashion. Unless a remarkable statement is made, just defying societal norms is not going to cut it.

These individuals below not only caused chatter around the world, they changed the way we view society.

When Michelle Obama released her first photo as First Lady, her bare arms caused an uproar.

abc_gma_snow_090302_ms

Photo Cred: ABC news

Showing off her amazingly toned arms in a sleeveless, black dress, people criticized her for wearing what many deemed inappropriate for the wife of the president. Their criticisms stemmed from an unwritten, arbitrary rule that sleeveless dresses, tennis shoes and open-toes shoes are banned in the House of Representatives.

Nonetheless, it didn’t stop Mrs. Obama from donning many sleeveless numbers during her husband’s tenure as President and many have spoken out about the unwritten (and possibly outdated) dress code as it pertains to women, asking for change.

***

The late, great Kurt Cobain is the poster boy for grunge fashion.

ht_Kurt_Cobain_Looking_Up_ll_120323_vblog

Photo Cred: Jesse Frohman 

A strong advocate for LGBTQ rights and racial equality, his anti-establishment standpoint was as present in the clothes he wore, as it was in his music. Cobain layered oversized tees, ripped clothing and flannels in an effort to be unlike greater society as much as possible. He ended up being one of the greatest influencers of street fashion today.

***

Androgyny has always been prevalent in fashion. As society explores gender norms and fluidity, the characteristic line that differentiates men and women become blurred. However, as evidenced by the late David Bowie, pushing those boundaries allows us to explore who we are.

Through his characters Ziggy Stardust and Alladin Sane, Bowie donned colorful, stylistic makeup, tight leotards and exuded sexuality. When he wasn’t wearing stylistic makeup and tight leotards, Bowie wore pastel suits with flared legs. Knowing how seductive Bowie’s style was to both men and women, it’s no wonder Romphims (male rompers), dresses and other traditional women’s clothing are entering men’s wardrobes.

Lastly we have the iconic Kennedys. A vision of New England elegance, the confident and cool couple’s fashion sense has withstood the test of time.

Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy

Jackie Kennedy is in the yellow skirt with Jack Kennedy to her left. Photo Cred: Getty

Ms. Jackie O. transformed stuffy, conservative garbs into soft, feminine ensembles. Her oversized sunglasses, long pea coats and scarves are highly prized staple pieces in our closets. Mr. Kennedy’s bomber jackets, fitted suits and casual style is emulated in men’s fashion all over the world. Thanks to them, it’s safe to say New England wear will live on forever as a part of American fashion.

We couldn’t mention everyone who has changed the world (while in fashion) so we want to know from you, who else is deserving to be on this list?

 

, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Designers Announced for Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2017

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Updates on August 17, 2017 at 2:04 pm

Ahem! We have a little somethin’ to share…the 2017 Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2017 designers and brands!

ECR designs

Elizabeth Carson Racker is returning to Tampa Bay Fashion Week for her fourth year. Constantly creating fresh and new silhouettes, this Tampa Bay-based designer knows what the modern day woman wants and always delivers.

The Dolce Couture Collection by Melissa Dolce will be making its debut at Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2017. In a class all by itself, Dolce pairs baseball tees with grass mini skirts and water pail hats with flowers sprouting out of it. Theatrical, bold and awe-inspiring, Dolce will put on a show we are sure to never forget.

Sopho by Alexandra Bougadis will be showing the Christi Collection, which combines leather craftsmanship with island flare. The line is inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle and culture. Already an international hotspot, Tampa Bay is ready for everything Sopho is going to bring.

After making its mark in the Pacific Northwest, Ohlendorf, atelier by Wendy Ohlendorf has returned to Tampa Bay and we’re thrilled! Drawing on her educational background in fine art and design, Ohlendorf’s tangible pieces express her ideas, romanticism and love for life.

 

Banana Republic is for men and women who make the most of every moment and opportunity. Their ability to make the simplest items seem so elegant is almost magical. Their contemporary classics and thoughtful design is iconic and we are glad they are returning to our runway.

 

 

Known for their on-trend designs, Fabletics inspires people to stay active in a variety of ways for all kinds of occasions. We’re excited to see their passion and energy on the runway!

Free People is for the eclectic, worldly woman with a restless soul. Rooted in femininity, courage and spirit, Free People expresses an important message through their clothing and Tampa Bay Fashion Week can’t wait to hear it!

Lily Pulitzer’s bright, colorful pieces are easily recognized in today’s sea of neutrals and nudes. No matter the weather, using bright prints and pinks they always bring the sun and fun on the runway.

Pandora’s jewelry always draws a breath of awe from us. Their handcrafted pieces serve as timeless love links to family and friends. Made with genuine materials and stones, Pandora is sure to put a twinkle in your eye.

We are counting down the days until we see this fantastic designers and brands on the runway! Learn more about the designers and brands here: http://www.fashionweektampabay.com/designers2017

Save

Save

, , , , , ,

Retail Brands on the Runway: Ready to Go!

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends on September 8, 2016 at 9:13 am

The Tampa Bay Fashion Week runway has always had a variety of designer brands showcase over the years ~ from emerging local and regional designers to established designers that launch their latest collections.

For the first time this year, we’re excited to have the retail brands at International Plaza and Bay Street on the #TBFW2016 runway!

Check out the brands that will be showing at Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2016.

Athleta

Athleta has been outfitting women athletes and health and fitness enthusiasts with the ultimate performance apparel and gear since 1998. Everything they create has been performance and quality-tested. Created to inspire an active lifestyle, motivate others, Athleta will show us how to workout in style.

banana republic

Banana Republic offers versatile, contemporary classics that can take you from the office to date night. A lifestyle brand for the modern man and woman, we are excited to see their designs that will endure through time.

Free People.png

Free People is for the carefree woman who immerses herself in the creative environment that allows her to be who she truly is. A woman’s lifestyle apparel and accessories boutique, Free People is for free expression and we can’t wait to hear what their new collection has to say.

Lilly Pulitzer.png

Lilly Pulitzer’s first shift dress was created to hide the juice stains incurred from running a juice stand in Palm Beach, Florida. The same customers, who loved her juice, fell in love with her bright, printed dresses, which led to the Lilly Pulitzer resort apparel and accessories. Homegrown and home taught, Lilly Pulitzer is sure to make a splash and color the runway.

neiman-marcus.pngNeiman Marcus has solidified themselves in American pop culture and will be showing at Tampa Bay Fashion Week. Offering an assortment of apparel, accessories, jewelry, beauty and decorative home products, Neiman Marcus is for the affluent customer. Hosting a plethora of brands, including: St. John, Salvatore Ferragamo, Manolo Blahnik, Kate Spade, Dolce & Gabana, Zegna, David Yurman, Jean Paul Gaultier, Escada, Bobbi Brown, Armani and Baccarat.pandora.png

Pandora is a handcrafted, affordable, luxury jewelry brand. Known for its unique threaded bead system, Pandora’s bracelets allow for wearers to add different charms making each unique. Offering bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings, Pandora will light up the runway.

If these brands got you excited as they do us, then you know don’t want to miss out on this! Check out the Tampa Bay Fashion Week schedule here, so to peep the dates and RSVP your spot.

See you there!

Jessica

, , , , , , ,

Three Tips to Find a Job in Fashion

In Fashion, Updates on August 5, 2016 at 1:27 am
Image courtesy of UnSplash

Image courtesy of UnSplash

Working in fashion is a dream of many. It seems glamourous, sparkly, creative and innovative, which it truly is. But it’s much more than that. Hard work, indepth industry knowledge and experiences are crucial to succeed. Here are three tips to find and get a job in fashion:

Demonstrate your experiences and know-how
Every career path starts somewhere. Fashion designers visit a fashion school to learn all about fabrics and design, buyers often study business or enroll for a course related to fashion management. However, having attended an educational institution isn’t a guarantee for glory and a successful professional life. Most companies require hands-on experiences through internships, volunteering, etc. Therefore, gaining
experiences and highlighting them in your job application is king!

This is especially important for those who are looking for a career change within the industry or across industries. A successful event manager might also be able to organize catwalk shows. In order to convince your potential employer about exactly that, another thing is especially important:

Be informed about the industry
Whatever career path in the fashion industry you are following. Make sure to know what’s going on. Reading the latest fashion news to be informed about recent developments is crucial. This should be more than knowing who was sitting front row and what the Kardashians wore. FashionUnited combines crucial industry information on just one platform, which is pretty handy. If you opt for ultimate convenience, a newsletter will deliver the essential knowledge directly to your email account.

Check out niche job boards & maintain your network
Various websites list various job offers. Unfortunately many of those websites are general career pages with positions in different fields outside the fashion world. To simplify your job search and to minimize frustration, look for platforms that focus on careers in fashion. You will be able to find more vacancies that are relevant for your search.

Another important source for job opportunities is your personal network. Make sure to connect with former colleagues, students and companies on business platforms such as Linkedin. Job opportunities might cross your way!

This post is a guest contribution from Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2016 media partner:

 Fashionunited-logo-black_600x64

FashionUnited is the international platform for fashion professionals. Globally active, the website reaches more than 1.5 million industry professionals per month. The philosophy of FashionUnited is to make the

industry “ more fun and efficient” by combining essential industry information on just one platform.

, , , , , ,

Street Style in Tampa Bay

In Events, Fashion, Trends on July 15, 2016 at 2:51 am

In this week’s blog post we are taking it back to the streets! We saw and met some beautiful women this week effortlessly slaying in this Florida heat and we have just got to introduce them to you!

Jessica, a member of University of South Florida faculty, caught up with Fashion Week Tampa Bay just outside of the USF libraryJessica 1

Her skirt came courtesy of, online retailer, Venus.com and her lovely nude colored flats are from DSW. She was are unsure where her top came from due to how long she has had it, but she thinks it may be courtesy of Kohl’s.

 

Looking lovely and regal in what she described as an “old outfit”, she proves those ‘old’ pieces of clothing in your closet can become your classic, go-to pieces.

Next meet USF student Liza. When we saw her camouflage jacket and gladiator sandals, we had to stop and chat it up! There is something so alluring when a look is so complete… so we asked her where she got it.

Liza

The shorts were a random buy but if anyone wants to buy a pair like them, there are tons of summer sales going on online, it just takes some searching. Liza’s shirt is from Forever 21 and the jacket was thrifted from the Anarchist Closet. Her sandals are from TJ Maxx and so is her adorable floral backpack.

It is always so much fun going out and interacting with the ladies of Tampa Bay. Be on the lookout because the next person who may end up on here may be you! 🙂

Much love and kisses from the Tampa Bay Fashion Week team, ciao!

, , , , , ,

How To Keep (And Look) Cool In The Sun

In Fashion, Trends, Updates on June 20, 2016 at 8:02 am

If you’re in Florida right now, we’re going to guess that the sun has been beating you into a hot, sweaty pulp! And you probably find yourself searching aimlessly for that breeze when you step outside of your home!

Well, look no further. We can’t create wind, but Fashion Week Tampa Bay can help you stay breezy, work that frizz, and look as relaxed as the Florida palm trees.

First things first, remove all tight articles of clothing from your closet, drawers and mind for the foreseeable hot future.

Unknown

Image by PDPics

Tank tops and shorts included! Though they seem like go-to articles of clothing, they will only make you hotter and sweat like a gruesome day in the gym.

images

Image by Janul, Creative Common License

Wear LOOSE clothing. The less fabric touching your skin, the cooler you will feel. If you can help it, wear cotton.

woman-1031533_960_720

Image by Unsplash

Take full advantage of crop tops, bralettes and sport bras. If showing skin is not your thing, wear high waist shorts or a loose skirt.

8343457461_66beb87651_b

Image by Lucy Burrows

bikini-491248_960_720

Image by bohemianbikini

Skirts and maxi dresses give your skin breathing room. Pairing crop tops or bralettes with skirts or donning a maxi dress can give you a simple, very modern look.

14045759074_f07fc91111_bImage by Jamie

Rompers or short overalls can also help keep you cool. The trick is making sure the fabrics are lightweight like cotton or linen. Denim can absorb heat but a nice pair of overalls paired with a bralette or crop top will have you looking chic and Tampa Bay Fashion Week approved.

All women know what the sun can do to our tresses but in the name of Beyonce, we are going to take lemons and make lemonade. Wear hats, scarves or bandanas and style that frizz! Everyday looks can be made with baseball caps, just throw it on.

Images by Urszulam25 (Scarf 2, Scarf 3)

Creatively use scarves or bandanas to hold your hair off your neck. Use them as elastics to put your hair in a ponytail. Put your hair in a bun and wrap a scarf or bandana around your head or the bun. The hair accessories will give your outfit a little flair and let you show off your personality.

These tips will help you stay airy, breezy and easy. Try them and let us know if they worked for you.

Ciao!

~FWTB Stylista Jessica

,

Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2015

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 20, 2015 at 4:38 pm

FullSizeRender (10)Tampa Bay Fashion Week just wrapped up our 8th annual event (Sept. 16-19, 2015)! This year came with a new designer-centric format – instead of a runway show, we held trunk shows as well as fashion presentations. Our designer trunk shows were held at what we called PURE Haus (PURE = Pop Up Retail Experience).

PURE Haus was held at International Plaza and Bay Street and allowed people to meet with the designers and shop their collections. Our pop-up shop was open the duration of the mall hours (10am-9pm), and at designated times during our week, fashion lovers and the public enjoyed a presentation of the designers collections on display.

On Wednesday, Sept. 16 and Thursday, Sept. 17, the following fashion designers showed:

Accessuri by Rachana Suri: A focus on eco-organic fashion with a purpose of giving women a choice to purchase earth-sustaining products. Rachana also uses her clothing line to bring awareness to the issue of human trafficking and how to stop the epidemic. Rachana shares her mission on ABC Action News here.

12004815_10153328094692946_2934860538322854408_n

Accessuri by Rachana Suri

***

Allison Elizabeth Design by Allison Bailey: This is Allison Bailey’s first time showing in Tampa Bay Fashion Week, and she showed her latest swimwear collection at this year’s event, highlighting high-waisted styles, lace and more and boldly highlighting women’s confidence!

12038490_10153327998667946_7458669390208849805_n

Allison Elizabeth Designs by Allison Bailey

***

CAITE by Karyn Seo: After 30 years in the industry Karyn believed that by launching her own company she would be able to be the best mother when her daughter was born while maintaining a strong and healthy career in the fashion industry. Karyn showcased a contemporary clothing collection with unique embroidery designed for all women.

IMG_5309

Caite by Karyn Seo

***

Jessica Martinez: A recent graduate from Sanford Brown IADT School of Design, Jessica brought her one-of-a-kind designs, all made by hand. She is excited about her future in the fashion industry and we’re excited to see where the future takes her!

12039396_10153328067062946_910598073289701885_n

Jessica Martinez

***

Rhonda Shear Couture: Always a showstopper, Rhonda featured her couture dress collection this year, as well as her lounge wear and intimate apparel. The goal for her designs are to embrace the female body and all of it’s curves while remaining comfortable!

IMG_5343

Rhonda Shear Couture

***

On Friday, Sept. 18 and Saturday, Sept. 19, we had:

Magenta by Wendy Ohlendorf: From Portland, OR, Wendy brought her modern and romantic one-of-a-kind dresses to our stage. Wendy’s love of creativity and travel are very apparent in her designs, as each piece represented a work of art.

FullSizeRender (4)

Magenta by Wendy Ohlendorf

IMG_4917

Magenta by Wendy Ohlendorf

***

Cerulean Blu by Desiree Noisette: Desiree brought us her colorful resort wear collection based out of St. Petersburg, FL, with soft fabrics and artistic designs. The variety of lengths, styles and colors, make Cerulean Blu’s collection easy transitional pieces to wear any time of the day.

FullSizeRender (7)

Cerulean Blu by Desiree Noisette

FullSizeRender (8)

Cerulean Blu by Desiree Noisette

FullSizeRender (6)

Cerulean Blu by Desiree Noisette

***

Be-Bops Custom Swimwear by Priscilla Kidder: Priscilla is committed to providing custom swimwear that helps women feel more confident in what they wear. Her goal is to help all women feel beautiful and comfortable while wearing swimwear that flatters in her vintage style, quality collection.

FullSizeRender (9)

Be-Bops Custom Swimwear by Priscilla Kidder

***

Oscar de la Portilla Escandon: Traveling all the way from Cuba, Oscar brought garments that are all hand-painted and vibrant in color. He mixed art, stones and metals into his unique and inspiring Spring 2016 collection.

IMG_4641

Oscar de la Portilla Escandon

***

Elizabeth Racker Designs: Ready-to-wear apparel that is fashion-forward, Elizabeth brings high-quality garments that are perfect for any occasion. Always staying up on the latest fashion trends, Elizabeth makes sure that what you will be wearing is eye catching and unique!

FullSizeRender (1)

Elizabeth Carson Racker Designs

FullSizeRender (2)

Elizabeth Carson Racker Designs

IMG_5573

Elizabeth Carson Racker Designs

***

In addition to all of the spectacular designers we had showing this year, we also enjoyed a special Student Designer Showcase from Sanford Brown IADT School of Design. The students designers included: Francesca Buot, Jessenia Ocasio and Lakesha Johnson.

FullSizeRender

Sanford Brown IADT School of Design: Francesca Buot, Jessenia Ocasio and Lakesha Johnson

This year’s beneficiary Dress For Success, and we held a purse drive the duration of the PURE Haus event. Thank you to those who donated purses! Dress For Success helps women thrive in their work and life. The mission of Dress for Success Tampa Bay is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support, and the career development tools to help women to thrive in work and in life.

FullSizeRender (11)

We appreciate all of you who came out to support Tampa Bay Fashion Week! If you have pictures you would like to share, we invite you to use #TBFW #FWTB #TBFASHIONWEEK!

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Learn how you can get involved by visiting our website and subscribe to our emails!

IMG_5294

~FWTB Stylista Rechael

, , , , , ,

Fashion Designer INDASHIO Brought His American Dream To Life In Tampa Bay

In Designers, Events, Fashion on March 28, 2013 at 11:35 am

International fashion designer and reality star, INDASHIO, showcased his newest collection at the American Dream Fashion Show in Tampa on Friday, March 1.

Indashio1

Indashio2

Indashio3

Attendees dressed to impress and filled the Hard Rock Café for this patriotism-infused fashion show at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa. From bold stars to color-blocked stripes, fierce camouflage to sparkle and shine, INDASHIO did not disappoint with his never-before-seen American Dream collection. Models rocked the runway to beats provided by DJ Kidd Leow of 93.3 FLZ FM.

Indashio4 Indashio5 Indashio6 Indashio7

INDASHIO, one of the youngest designers ever to show at Fashion Week in New York, was excited to be back in the Bay area to showcase his newest collection and bring an over-the-top fashion show spectacular to Tampa Bay. We caught up with INDASHIO following the show and he enlightened us with the inspiration behind the collection: “Obama and the spirit of equality in America, especially marriage equality, inspired the designs for my American Dream collection.”

Indashio8

Indashio9

Indashio10

While the finale was star-studded to say the least, it was INDASHIO’s talent and passion for his work that truly lit up the night and brought his own American Dream to life.

IndashioFinale IndashioFinale1 IndashioFinale3 IndashioFinale4 IndashioFinale5 IndashioFinale6

A portion of the event proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warriors Project, a cause that INDASHIO holds very near to his heart. Event sponsors included the Hilton Tampa Downtown, Tampa Bay Times, Wild 94.1 FM, Maxima 92.5 FM and ACE Tampa.

Did you attend the show? What do you think of INDASHIO’s American Dream collection?

IndashioModels

~Jenna

, , , , , , , ,

Brilliant Runways Soon To Come

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends on September 21, 2012 at 7:01 am

Looking for some excitement?  Never fear, for Brazilian designer Rogerio Martins is on the horizon.  Known for his unique wearable art, Rogerio brings the feminine mystique and culture of Brazil to fashion.

Martins has been showcased in several prestigious venues and was recently chosen as an Outstanding Emerging Designer of the year finalist at the Miami Beach International Fashion Week.  After a peek at some of his work, I would say this honor is well deserved.

Another brilliant talent to hit the stage will be Essence Flowers.  A native of Florida, Essence has made a name for herself with a breathtaking design aesthetic.  From professional cheerleading uniforms to magnificent art pieces which serve as inspiration for entire communities, Essence Flowers is here to bring great things to the runways of Tampa, and throughout the world.

With so many  wonderful garments to be seen, one cannot forget intimates.  Rhonda Shear, former host of USA: Up All Night, creates beautiful sleep and shapewear using only the finest materials.  Challenging  women to embrace their curves, Rhonda Shear Intimates are the perfect accessory to any style.

Are you ready for all that shimmers and shines at Tampa Bay Fashion Week?