Top designers include Mori Lee Julietta, Maggie Sottero, & Alfred Angelo

RSVP to the event: TRUDYSEVENTS@gmail.com

Contact: 408-377-1987 x 29

Fashion Show location: Pruneyard Plaza Hotel, Campbell 1995 S. Bascom Ave; Campbell, CA 95008

Items include shirts, jackets, accessories, flannels and production tees…look for the ‘I heart SJ’ shirts.

The Usuals Boutique host a party every month and have homegrown events where they bring in local clothing and jewelry makers. They also display the work of local artists.

Location:

1020 The Alameda San Jose, Ca 95126

Upcoming Event: The Usuals is hosting the release of Cutso and Mamabear’s first collaborative release, Getting To Know You: Volume One at Jonny V’s on Friday, 31 E. Santa Clara St. 10:00-2:00

by Amanda Holst

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AQUARIUS & PISCES

Aquarius (January 21-February 19)

Experimenting this month will be of great value for you Aquarius. It can allow you to focus on your style but more importantly, weed out the fashions that aren’t working. If you are sick of keeping up with the latest trends, try reinventing a favorite outfit from the past.

Pisces (February 20- March 20)

Weekend wear will be your main focus for the month. Pisces gals, stock up on leggings that make you smile. Pisces guys, start the year off with a new pair of shades. You work hard all week- so now it’s time to relax and get comfortable.

Aries (March 21-April 20)

So you’ve reinvented yourself- Great! Now’s the time to flaunt the new you. Carry your confidence in something that feels amazing and load up on the bling. For Aries guys, try a carbide link bracelet.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

Professionalism takes a front seat to relax-wear this month Taurus, so don’t get too comfy just yet. Mix-matching outfits will save you both money and boredom, so know the rules. Each garment you have should match at least two others in your closet. Also, don’t shy away from scarves, ties, and jewelery- they can add fun to any outfit.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

You may start to feel a little stagnant with your wardrobe, so maybe it’s time to venture out for different pieces. Instead of hitting the department stores, hit your salon first. A new haircut or hairdo may be the new perspective you are looking for.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

Body issues are only in your head this month. This low self-esteem will need a boost if you plan on making it in fashion this month. Send a message by wearing your favorite outfits. Who cares if people take notice of your repeating trend. The best thing you can do is pad your confidence.

Leo (July 23-August 22)

Going back and forth on styles and trends this month will completely drain you. Keep it simple by wearing clothes that fit and feel comfortable. If you are in the mood for something more daring, try infusing some color.

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

Last month’s spending spree has gotten you to re-evaluate the items in your closet. Don’t be afraid to merge the new pieces with the old ones-its time to start building a relationship.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

Buying on a budget is never easy but quality still should be maintained in selecting your pieces. Make sure that the fabrics you buy aren’t falling apart at the seams and they can be worn with some of your lower-quality pieces.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

Flaunt it if you’ve got it this month, you definitely have the confidence to back it up. Doubts in fashion can be replaced with colors that match your skin tone and accentuate your sex appeal.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

Don’t reserve your fashion this month. Instead take risks that will pay off for your personality. If you are itching to try a new trend, go for it.

Capricorn (December 22-January 20)

Sophisticate your fashion this month with dark colors, classic styles, and statement boots. The sophisticated Capricorn will look anything but sloppy.

Perspective by: Amanda Holst

The Mercedes-Benz Fashion week welcomed the Autumn/Winter 2011 collections last week in Berlin.

Crazy styling owned the runway and brought with it new twists in hair and daring risks in makeup.

Designers A.F. Vandevorst, & Patrick Mohr spearheaded the craze and took some interesting approaches.

Not a single face was shown in A.F.Vandevorst’s collection, as the models strutted their stuff using only their footing for guidance.

A.F. VANDEVORST

A.F. VANDEVORST

A.F. VANDEVORST

Patrick Mohr took a silent approach with his models: Matrix-glued-shut mouths seemed to be par for the collection, which gave off a unisex feel- unpretentious, but still stylish. Colors were typical for the season, lots of blacks and greys, but then some olive green.

PATRICK MOHR

PATRICK MOHR

PATRICK MOHR

Helium Magazine: How long have you been designing? How did you get started?

Karen Lum: My mom had a sewing machine. She taught me how to mend my own clothes. When I got to middle school I realized I wanted to do different things and so I took some classes and make two pieces from scratch. In high school I started to experiment on my own and I even made my prom dress. In college I found out about Charity Show and starting to do this seriously and I do it because I enjoy it. now I realize that it is something that I really enjoy. I do it more for fun, not professionally.

HM: And you’re going to school?

KL: Yes, my major us Science & Technology with a concentration in Product Design.

HM: Any plans when you get out?

KL: I’m interested in product design or working for a company. I would love to travel. Sometimes I think I want to move somewhere like Hong Kong and see what happens in fashion. I don’t see myself working in the fashion industry, but I really love it a lot. It’s all up in the clouds and is a mystery- who knows where I will be.

HM:How long have you done Charity Fashion Show?

KL: Three years, this will be my last, so four total.

HM: What was the best part of doing the show?

KL: The clothes inspire me; CFS gives me a platform for my collection.  I like to just watch it ‘all go by’. The shelves and the mannequin comes to life with my collection.

HM: Remind our readers what your collection at last year’s Charity Fashion Show was like

KL: I lived in India for six months and worked for a non-profit that was developing a low-cost incubator using a pouch-contained material. The collection was inspired by architecture, nature, festivals, religion and colors. I brought my sewing machine to India and I worked on four dresses. My goal this year is to do four more, a smaller collection than usual. Basically, I utilized textiles from India and converted them in ways that express what I saw in India. They were inspired by banana leaves I saw in festivals and worn for decoration as applications. I used Kelly green color and rigid stripes. I made a dress based out of Indian textile, color and banana leaves. I also bought a lot of saries and converted them to dresses. Another dress was inspired by the Indian flag – saffron ,white and green. The colors represent peace and hard word.

HM: Compared to CFS last year, how do you explain your style today? Has it changed much?

KL: I make all these clothes for myself. I make what I am feeling at the moment. There are  two ways I work. I either end up buying fabric that catch’s my eye with no plan in mind, then I create something later OR I find material and I have no idea what to do with it  then later  I find something to do with it—this is the best form of method.

HM: Can you give us an example?

KL: For example 2 years ago at CFS I was given puffy sleeves by another designer that were cut off  a dress. I ended up making a trench coat jacket and this military inspired dress out of them. It makes it more creative when I buy with restriction and then make use with what I have.

HM: Do you have a specific style?

KL: I make what I am interested in wearing at the moment. I make things that I am interested in owning myself. I trying really hard to make clothes that no one else has, just like every fashion designer does, right? I like making dresses, going-out outfits, and good quality cocktail dresses. If I can’t afford it, I make copy of the original.

HM: Have you considered fashion as a business?

KL: Since I have no formal training, I can’t sell my fashions professionally. I could contract my services for construction or have some one to help me replica of the original but I have an attachment to the things I make; so I would feel that I am giving away. You can’t put a price on the conceptualization you are giving away.I have no desire to sell for money, I do it for fun.I make clothes that I want to have and keep.

HM: What are some of your favorite pieces?

KL: This dress I made last year for my 21st birthday dinner last year. It was a black dress- bunch of black stretch twill – short shift-dress with pocket, buttons and Indian hand bead work.

HM: What would you tell someone looking to get into designing? Are there any special skills that you need?

KL: Always try to do something new. The thing with fashion is that it is driven by consumer trends, whatever the style is now will sell. There are so many ways you can go with fashion. I make it [my style] anyway. I go for the accomplishment it brings and the truly original piece that comes out of it. Try something new and be true to yourself.

HM: What’s in the near future for Karen Lum? Are you working on anything now?

Besides working on CFS, I am working on an artwork exhibit for the art fair on campus. I want to blog more about my traveling. What is my dream job? I enjoy travel and then make clothes or art out f that experience.What if my job was to travel the world and make clothes inspired by art– that would be the coolest job ever! To travel to south Korea, Vietnam, France who knows? India was a very valuable experience in the way that I was able to translate what I saw– that is what I really love an am passionate about. I am in the process of trying to find a way to raise funds to go to Italy after graduation.

Karen Lum can be reached at: karen.lum.26@gmail.com

Interview by Amanda Holst

Photography by Ralph Nguyen

Photos used with permission by Karen Lum

Army of One

Click here for more pictures of FAME “Army of One.”

Brave New World

The annual Subzero festival featured an innovative fashion show, telling a post-apocolyptic story. The eye-catching show was brought together seamlessly through the vision of creative stylists Eric Belladonna and Jennifer Thomas along with hair by 5Color Cowboy.

Generations of Change

We teamed up with Goodwill of Silicon Valley to produce the second annual Eco Chic fashion show themed ‘Generations of Change.’ Designs were created specifically for the show, and were auctioned at the end of the night to benefit Goodwill.

Pretty in Pink

This year, we met talented designer Alyssa Nicole, who shared with us her beautiful “Pretty in Pink” Collection as a part of her clothing line Bird by Alyssa Nicole. She was also honored by Women’s Wear Daily for her styling on Chictopia.com

Music Moment

San Jose gave a warm welcoming to Cold War Kids as they performed at the summer series Music in the Park.

Downtown San Jose’s summer music festival Left Coast Live featured artists OK Go and Neon Trees.

The Elemental Issue

Here’s a behind-the scenes look at the moments that made 2010 a successful year.

On set with Vanessa Houle wearing designs by the talented Hector Manuel while shooting for the Revival Fashion Show campaign.

Britteney Reynolds models in a photo shoot we did with Umbrella Salon.

We’d like to thank everyone who have helped make 2010 such a successful year. See you in 2011!

Happy Birthday Capricorn and Aquarius!

Capricorn (December 22-January 20)

As the new year springs into action, unfortunately your fashion sense isn’t bouncing with it. Try to be persuasive with outfits that exude confidence. Aim for clothes that fit and that have a sense of quality. It’s not too late to get a great deal on a pair of statement shoes or military jacket.

Aquarius (January 21- February 19)

Optimistic Aquarians, you certainly have a lot in store for you this year, making your fashion output a priority. Don’t let stress damper your New Year’s spirit; instead, let your self-image do all the talking.  Look for tassels on belts and hats to walk the part in 2011.

Pisces (February 20-March 20)

The planet of beauty brings with her an opportunity to let you shine this month. Encapsulate this foresight and stock up on clothes that will catapult your tastes for professional attire. Pisces men, rock the work front with a sleek cut suit. Pisces ladies, make your female coworkers jealous by striding around in a wool crepe dress.

Aries (March 21- April 20)

While a wolf dressed in sheep’s clothing may be too harsh in describing your take on fashion this month, there is some truth behind this symbolic meaning. Until you figure out who you are [and you will] you need to work with what you’ve got. Small prints can camouflage a blight fashion insight, while a wide-collar coat can rationalize why you aren’t feeling up to the task.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

You are consistent with what you carry out and for the most part deliver on your word, so make a point to do the same for your fashion this month. Embrace your makeover attitude with layers. Pair chunky sweaters with heavyweight vests or wear a bright long sleeve shirt under a faux fur gilet. Your willingness to change will pay off by month’s end.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

While the focus has been on your professional aspects for a while, now is the time to let loose. Use your curiosity to come up with something stylish and fun. Try an affluent velvet jacket with a pair of skinny jeans and ankle boots or style with attitude by showing off your edgy motorcycle jacket.

Cancer (June 22- July 22)

Fashion ruts have a way of following you so try to hone in on the behavior before history repeats itself. Do clothes fit? Are you picking the right colors? What IS your style? These are all questions to ask before making contributions to your closet. This best thing you can do for yourself this month is to find your fashion vibe.

Leo (July 23- August 22)

As the new year is ringing in, fight the urge to be compulsive with the hustle and bustle of a new style. Try fashion out first by experimenting with items you already have. Then gather items that you normally wouldn’t wear and try infusing the two together. You will be surprised with the upshot.

Virgo (August 23- September 22)

This month you want people to take notice of your hard work. Dazzle your audience with pieces that add subtly to your wardrobe without rocking the fashion boat. Stay away from the sheer and the bulgy. Dabble in crimson lipsticks or decorate your professional wear with trendy cufflinks.

Libra (September 23- October 22)

Not in the mood for all the winter fashion hype? No problem-this year is all about accommodating how you feel and what you want to contribute to your personal style. Give justice to whatever you are feeling – quarky, rebellious, optimistic and curious can all represent the undertones you are feeling at the moment.

Scorpio (October 23- November 21)

You have been very sensible and riding on whatever fashion wave the stars have been giving you. This new year will give you clarity, so stay dedicated and sensible to your tastes and your fashion will be rewarded. Gravitate toward styles that add spice without compromising your personal touch.

Sagittarius (November 22- December 21)

Don’t jump into the new year using your animal instincts, just yet- it will take some time to find your fashion footing. A little patience can go a long way in solidifying a new look. Look at magazines, blogs and TV for inspiration, but take time to develop your style before you begin your metamorphosis.

Perspective by Amanda Holst

Fashion 101

If you’d ever been to the Dickens Fair at the Cow Palace in San Francisco around this time of year, you know how enthralled and immersed one can get in the 19^th century streets of Victorian London. If fathoming of the invention of the transatlantic telegraph cable or wrapping your head around the beginning of the civil war is too much for you to imagine, maybe a dance at the lively Fezziwig’s Dance Party, a portrait taken at Mrs. Piper’s Photo Parlour or a run-in with Scrooge or Oliver Twist will truly capture the essence of the Victorian period and dress portrayed at the Dickens Fair.

Fine art, alluring jewelry and Victorian clothing are just a few things found in the shops and boutiques that dote London’s Petticoat Lane, Fish Street, Nickelby Road and Fagan’s Alley.

Feast your eyes on the main attraction Dark Garden Unique Corsetry.

The Beauties of Lady Lovelace are always a main attraction and you can’t help but stop to stare at the women posing in these ready-to-wear and couture corsets.

Photo by Raymond Van Tassel / Corsetry by Dark Garden San Francisco

Or stock up on your Victorian hats, gloves and jewelry from Petrushka (Farber)

Petrusha (Farber)

Gentlemen are certainly not left out from the Victorian merriment. Let Mr. Alan Jeffries, Fine Gentlemen\’s Apparel reproduce the Victorian look all year round. Coats, cloaks, trousers and dressing gowns are just a few things that this bespoke tailor of fine clothing offers.

Frock Coat $600

Double-Breasted Waistcoat $200-$250

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Even the embellishments of peekaboo masks or braids can liven up your Victorian spirits and put you in the mood.

Masks by Mitchell Walker $139-$450

Mask by Mitchell Walker $139-$450

Adorn Thy Hair by Lynn Combs

Perspective by Amanda Holst
Fashion 101

As winter is just around the corner, it’s a good idea to start pulling your styles and sense together. Here are some fun essentials to consider for this chilly season:

Tolani Lakshmi Scarves ($95), Lucky Brand Plaid Pucker Scarves ($39) ,Juicy Couture Couture Stripe Scarves with Tassles

Scarves, Hats & Gloves

Winter accessories such as scarves, hat and gloves are a fun way to infuse practicality with fashion. Why sacrifice warmth? Instead, dress up in fun winter amenities. Play on fedora hats, beanies, or ear bands–they can be both fashionable and functional.

Peacoat

Kimchi Blue Ruffle Peacoat (Urban Outfitters $138)

If you are throwing all of your money into one statement piece for this upcoming season, do so in a cute winter coat. A peacoat is a great choice because it serves a dual purpose:

1) it will go with a ton of outfits, shoes and accessories and

2) you can turn drab into appealing at any moments’ time.

Invest in something that will invest in you.

Mudd Midcalf Boots, $39, Kohl's

Cute practical boots

So while the suede boots that you have lying in your closet are REALLY cute, you have to admit they are not all too practical for the rainy season. Think of what you want to be trekking in this season and go from there. If you will be wearing a lot of skirts, you may want to invest in knee high boots. Ankle boots are great with trousers and we all know that there is a pair of Ugg’s for any kind of personality.

Tights

Maggie's Organic Grapevine Tights, $26

Who says you can’t sport skirts or dresses when the temperature drops? Outsmart the weather with some fabulous patterns and goofy colored tights. Gone is the warm weather but not our personalities. Maggie\’s Organics carry a variety of styles including opaque, patterned and even striped!

United Colors of Benetton 2010-2011 Autumn Winter Collection

Layers

Layers have been my thing this season. Experiments have left long-sleeve shirts under short-sleeve sweaters, Cuddl duds under jeans and tights, and cardigans and vests over my layers of tighter fitted layers. However you want to play it, layers can be a fun way to express your inner ski bunny.

Perspective by Amanda Holst

Fashion 101