Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

Photo c/o Thrift World Facebook

Thrift World | Thursday, June 29
From 6 to 11 p.m., enjoy BBQ food, drinks, music, and of course, all the vintage clothes your heart desires. There will be women's and men's high-end vintage wear, unique thrifted finds, era-specific items, vintage sports and street wear, accessories, brand new Simplified Clothing, and more! This is definitely a shopping event you don't want to miss.

This event is located at 1480 Gratiot Ave., in Detroit.

Night at the Museum: Intro to European Modern Art | Friday, June 30
The DIA is hosting an event to bring together young professionals in an art-enthused setting for "A Night in the Museum." This quarterly event increases awareness of exhibits/programs at the DIA and creates a culture of new art enthusiasts in Metro Detroit. The first installment of this mixer gives an introduction to European Modern Art by curator Jill Shaw. There will also be live music by blues singer Thornetta Davis and a cash bar in the Kresge Court. This is a free event from 6 to 10 p.m., but make sure to register here.

The DIA is located at 5200 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.

Michigan Rib Fest 2017 | Friday, June 30 through Sunday, July 2
All weekend, everyone is welcome to come out and enjoy the best BBQ from across the state in Downtown Royal Oak! Aside from BBQ and other food, there will be multiple stages for music, a kids zone and yummy drinks. There will be a $3 entry fee, and for more information, click here.

Drop-In Indigo Dye Workshop | Saturday, July 1
A Wool Story is hosting a pop-up workshop at Eldorado General Store from 2 to 5 p.m. to learn all about Indigo dyeing and Japanese shibori techniques. Cotton bandanas will be provided, but feel free to bring your own white shirts or light colored garments. You'll also bring home instructions to recreate the designs in your own home. It's $40 and there is no limit to how many people can come.

Eldorado General Store is located at 1700 Michigan Ave., in Detroit.

Uptown Toast | Saturday, July 1
The monthly wine social "Uptown Toast" is back at the Livernois "Pop Up" Shop from 4 to 8 p.m. for great wines and great times. Sample wines from around the world and shop from great artisan vendors. You can also explore all the Livernois has to offer.

Livernois "Pop Up" Shop is located at 19410 Livernois Ave., in Detroit.

Eastern Market Bike Tour | Saturday, July 1
From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., explore Detroit on a bike ride starting at the RiverWalk, then to the Dequindre Cut, and then through Eastern Market. This tour will include information on the area's history and current development plans. You'll also get the chance to see the district's magnificent murals and do some shopping. Depending on time, the tour will also stop in Lafayette Park on the way back, which is home to the largest grouping of Mies van der Rohe buildings in the world. This tour is $30, or $40 with a bike rental, and you can purchase tickets and see the rest of the tour schedule here. The tour will start and finish at Wheelhouse Detroit Bike Shop.

Wheelhouse Detroit Bike Shop is located at 1340 Atwater St., in Detroit.

La La Land | Sunday, July 2
So Long Sunday will be closing out its bicentennial themed "City of Stars" season with a showing of the Oscar and Golden Globe-winning film, La La Land, starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone. The movie starts at 10 p.m. at the Rackham Stage.

Rackham Stage is located at 915 E. Washington St., in Ann Arbor.

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

SPARK 2017 | Friday, June 9

SPARK is DGG's annual fundraiser! This year celebrate with us from 7 to 11 p.m. at The Baltimore Gallery. Guests will enjoy food stations, cocktails, art and design, a silent auction, high-energy raffle, backyard games, a live art presentation and local designer displays. The theme is Detroit Garden Party and guests are encouraged to wear fashionable outfits fit for a spring cocktail party. (Check out outfit inspiration here.) Tickets are $60 here but will go up to $70 at the door!

The Baltimore Gallery is located at 314 E. Baltimore Ave., in Detroit.

Burger & Brews Bash 2017 | Friday, June 9

At the Royal Oak Farmers Market, enjoy samples of Michigan's best burgers and brews -- all in one place! From 7:30 to 11 p.m., there will be live entertainment and unlimited samples of burgers, brews and sweets. GA and VIP (gets you into the event an hour early) tickets are available here.

The Royal Oak Farmers Market is located at 316 E. 11 Mile Rd., in Royal Oak.

Detroit Music Weekend | Saturday, June 10

From 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., enjoy free music including Aretha Franklin. There will be 300 artists across four different stages. From noon to 6 p.m. there will also be an invited artist performance that is free to watch. For a complete schedule, and to see more events surrounding this festival, click here.

The festival is located at 350 Madison Ave., in Detroit.

16th Annual Berkley Art Bash | Saturday, June 10

Enjoy the works of over 140 talented artists, live music, local eats and family fun from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the heart of Downtown Berkley on 12 Mile. This is definitely an event you don't want to miss!

Motor City Pride Festival 2017 | Saturday, June 10 through Sunday, June 11

Michigan's largest LGBTQ Pride celebration is taking place at Hart Plaza this weekend! There will be five stages of entertainment, craft beers, food trucks, a family area, hundreds of vendors and tons of people showing their pride. On Saturday, gates open at 1 p.m. and the festival goes until 8 p.m., and Sunday, gates open at noon and the festival ends at 7 p.m. There is a $5 cover at the gate.

Hart Plaza is located at 1 Hart Plaza, in Detroit.

Shed 5 Flea | Sunday, June 11

Pickers, makers and shopkeepers unite at Eastern Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.for an epic flea and vintage market experience. This event is totally free and takes place on the second Sunday of every month this summer.

Eastern Market is located at 2934 Russell St., in Detroit.

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

Photo c/o Spring Into Corktown Facebook

Spring Into Corktown | Saturday, May 20
From 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Corktown will have tons of family-friendly, fun activities that will keep everyone busy. You can see the new statues in the neighborhood, listen to the Detroit Party Marching Band, attend free yoga classes, ride free, historical shuttle tours and so much more! You can see the whole lineup for the day here.

Corktown is located in Detroit.

RALLY in the ALLEY | Saturday, May 20
Celebrate the Rust Belt Market's 6 year anniversary with shopping, food and a full bar provided by Revel Bar. Food trucks include Delectabowl, Nosh Pit, Buffy's Mexi-Casian, Detroit BBQ and Pita Post. Western Market and Spun Sugar Detroit will also be there. If you're a huge foodie, this is definitely the event for you.

The Rust Belt Market is located at 22801 Woodward Ave., in Ferndale.

Grand Opening - HopCat - Royal Oak | Saturday, May 20
The grand opening of HopCat in Royal Oak is finally here! Enjoy 100 of the best craft beers, plus free Crack Fries all day. The first 200 guests will receive a card good for free Crack Fries every week for a year. The celebration starts at 11 a.m. and goes until 2 a.m.!

HopCat is located at 208 W. 5th Ave., in Royal Oak.

WhateverFest 7 | Saturday, May 20
From noon to 4 a.m. come out to the Tangent Gallery/Hastings Street Ballroom for the 7th annual WhateverFest! Experience live music and art, yummy food trucks, vendors and Detroit's best talent. You can purchase pre-sale wristbands for $6 at The Bottom Line Coffee House or Third Wave Music in Midtown, otherwise they will be $10 at the door. For a full line-up of artists, click here.

The Tangent Gallery/Hastings Street Ballroom is located at 715 E. Milwaukee St., in Detroit.

Flower Day 2017 | Sunday, May 21
Eastern Market's annual Flower Day will be taking place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. This has been an ongoing tradition since 1967 where growers offer a wide variety of flowers at a great value. This year's posters were created by Ouizi and will be for sale for $10 in Shed 5 on Saturdays.

Eastern Market is located at 2934 Russell St., in Detroit.

Finders Keepers Vintage Market | Sunday, May 21
The Finders Keepers Vintage Market is back at the Chelsea County Fairgrounds for another awesome summer of vintage goods. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. you can find all sorts of upscale vintage, vintage-inspired and handmade goods. Admission is $5 and kids under 12 are free.

Chelsea County Fairgrounds are located at 20501 W. Old US Highway 12, in Chelsea.

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

Image from DIA Founders Junior Council

Founders Junior Council Presents Cirque | Saturday, March 25
The Founders Junior Council, a group of young professionals and one of the DIA's largest auxiliaries, is hosting its annual masquerade ball -- Cirque. This year's theme is Mythos, focusing on mythology from all across the world. From 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., the DIA will have drinks, dancing and debauchery. The dress code is formal, masked attire. Tickets can be purchased here.

The DIA is located at 5200 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.

DOM SUTLE Presents Straight Off the Runway Fashion Show | Saturday, March 25
From 6 to 9 p.m., Dom Sutle will be hosting an unforgettable fashion experience, while also celebrating its owner's 30th birthday. There will be plenty of designers, boutiques and vendors available for you to shop from, all happening at Clubhaus Detroit. For more information, click here, and for tickets, click here.

Clubhaus Detroit is located at 6540 St. Antoine, in Detroit.

Brewery Walking Tour - Detroit | Saturday, March 25
Motor City Brew Tours presents a walking tour of some of Detroit's best breweries! The tour will start at Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria and Brewery and include Traffic Jam & Snug and Motor City Brewing Works. Tickets are $42.50 and available here or at the event. This tour is 21+ and will start at 11:30 a.m.

Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria and Brewery is located at 441 W. Canfield St. #9, in Detroit.

Pure Detroit Fisher Building Tour | Sunday, March 26
Pure Detroit invites you to a tour of Detroit's 1928 Albert Kahn-designed masterpiece. The free tour will begin at Pure Detroit's shop inside the building and is open to all ages. From noon to 1 p.m., learn intimate details and experience firsthand the ornate and intricate designs, which include one-of-a-kind mosaics, painted ceilings, Art Deco chandeliers and the finest craftsmanship of stone, brass and bronze. The tour will include a history of the building, a tour of the interior arcade, third floor and 19th floor, and close up details of the largest marble skyscraper in the world. For more information on Pure Detroit's other tours, click here.

The Fisher Building is located at 3011 W. Grand Blvd., in Detroit.

All Things Detroit & Food Truck Rally | Sunday, March 26
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Eastern Market, you will get the chance to dine on Detroit delectables and sample sweet treats, while receiving acclaimed products and services from in and around Detroit. You're also supporting Detroit's amazing small businesses! Tickets are only $5, but there is also a "Beat the Crowd" package for $15 which gets you into the event a full hour early. To purchase both options, click here.

Eastern Market is located at 2934 Russell St., in Detroit.

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

Chairs for Charity Presented by Empathy313 | Thursday, November 3
Join Hour Detroit magazine and Empathy313 for an unforgettable evening at the Garden Theater. This first annual Chairs for Charity fundraiser will showcase local talent in the art and design community in a unique pop-up gallery of extraordinary chair installations. Sip cocktails, enjoy gourmet bites and bid on beautiful works of art to raise funds for dozens of local charities in the Give Detroit Challenge. Tickets are available here.

The Garden Theater is located at 3929 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.

Well Done Goods' Grand Opening Party | Friday, November 4
Find out what happens when aliens crash-land in Detroit with a load of designery favorites from the MoMA Store, a local screenprinting shop and a natural history museum's basement from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Well Done Goods by Cyberoptix grand opening party. While Cyberoptix is celebrating 10 years of unique neckwear, Well Done Goods is a brand new men's and women's accessories shop featuring handmade home goods, vintage and scientific curiosities, barware and irresistible raw stone jewelry.

Well Done Goods is located at 1440 Gratiot 1D, in Detroit.

American Style and Spirit Exhibition Preview Reception | Friday, November 4
To kick off the Henry Ford Museum's brand new exhibition featuring over 130 years of American style, there will be a preview party from 7 to 10 p.m. You can be the first to see the exhibit while enjoying passed hors d' oeuvres and a wine bar. Tickets are $75, and you can find more information on the exhibit here.

The Henry Ford Museum is located at 20900 Oakwood Blvd., in Dearborn.

Launched! A Women's Entrepreneur and Branding Summit | Saturday, November 5
This is no boring workshop: LAUNCHED! is a one-day summit at MASH Detroit for entrepreneurial women that educates them on being innovative, thinking next level and successfully navigating their businesses for growth via interactive and practical experiences that will be fun and memorable. It's two parts business and one part party. This awesome summit was founded by one of our awesome board of directors, Carlotta Tutt Holloway, and our founder, Karen Buscemi will be giving a Boss on Boss Chat. You can register, here and find out more information, here.

MASH Detroit is located at 14711 Mack Ave. Suite B, in Detroit.

World of Vera Bradley | Saturday, November 5
Kickoff your holiday shopping at Twelve Oaks Mall this weekend! The latest Vera Bradley collection will be showcased at the festive Vera Bradley shop at Macy's. Shop while enjoying yummy sips and snacks. There will also be fun giveaways and a photo booth. This event is hosted by the blog, The HSS Feed.

Macy's at Twelve Oaks Mall is located at 27550 Novi Rd., in Novi.

All Things Detroit | Sunday, November 6
Get ready to shop til you drop and sample a variety of different homemade desserts and cuisine from your favorite Michigan brands from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. In Eastern Market there will be over 200 local artists, crafters, artisans, food vendors and food trucks to kick off the holiday season with shopping, entertainment and family fun. Advance tickets are $5 here, otherwise they're $7 at the door.

Eastern Market is located at 2934 Russell St., in Detroit.

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

Eastern Market After Dark | Thursday, September 22
Celebrate Detroit design as one of the country's oldest public markets, Eastern Market, turns into a creative district by night. More than 30 studios throughout the district will be open late, and sheds 2, 3, 4 and 5 will be open with interactive experiences, brand activations with Detroit's up-and-coming designers, designer spotlights, installations and parties. This will be taking place from 7 to 11 p.m. This is an official part of the Detroit Design Festival, taking place the 21 through the 25.

 Eastern Market is located at 2934 Russell St., in Detroit.

Detroit Design Ball | Thursday, September 22
Taking place in Shed 5 at Eastern Market from 5:30-10 p.m., come out for a special DDF night of entertainment honoring a new vision for Detroit urban renewal. Some of Detroit's most exciting artists, designers, performers, enterprise and community organizations will be here. There will even be the 6th annual DDF Independent Designer runway fashion show. For tickets, click here, and for more information on the events of the night, click here.

2016 AIA Detroit Celebration of Architecture | Thursday, September 22
Join the best of the best in Detroit architecture, with professionals to emerging creatives, for a special evening in Shed 3 at Eastern Market from 6 to 10 p.m. There will be an amazing cast of creatives, companies and supporters, along with a red carpet experience, awards gallery, award ceremony, celebration lounges and cocktails. Tickets are available here or at the door for $60.

Detroit City of Design Summit | Thursday, September 22 and Friday, September 23
This two-day summit, hosted by Detroit Creative Corridor Center and Creative Many, is especially for Detroit's design community and international partners to explore building a better city through design. This is a part of the Detroit Design Festival and will be taking place at Jam Handy. For tickets, click here.

Jam Handy is located at 2900 E. Grand Blvd., in Detroit.

DDF 2016 Light Up Livernois | Saturday, September 24
The third edition of Light Up Livernois returns to Detroit's Historic Avenue of Fashion. With a focus on how great urban design can drive the economic future of the neighborhood, programming will include open businesses, fashion vignettes, urban redevelopment plans, musical performances and small business highlights. This is something you definitely don't want to miss.

This will be at 7 Mile and Livernois, in Detroit.

Open Streets Detroit | Sunday, September 25
Open Streets is a national and international event that Detroit is joining for two free public outdoor events, the first being this weekend from noon to 5 p.m. The event will cover a four mile stretch of major roadway, connecting Michigan Ave. and Vernor Hwy. People will have the opportunity to bike, walk, jog, skate and more through the car-free street. Participants that make their way through the street park will also be able to sample fun workouts, with everything from hula hooping, kickboxing and yoga. All of this will be put on by local businesses community groups to promote health and wellness. For more information on the Open Streets Project, click here.

Dancing at the Detroit Yacht Club! A Peacock Room Pop-up | Sunday, September 25
Come out to the Detroit Yacht Club for some awesome vintage-inspired dancing. All skill levels are welcome, including beginner. At 2 p.m. there will be free dance lessons, and from 3 to 6 p.m., dance to the live sounds of the Big Band. It's $20 at the door, and there will be vintage-inspired shopping from the Peacock Room.

The Detroit Yacht Club is located at 1 Riverbank Rd., in Detroit.

Hard Cider & Donuts | Sunday, September 25
Enjoy a familiar fall tradition with Michigan by the Bottle Tasting Room with hard cider and fresh donuts. There will be hard cider and Love & Buttercream donuts available for purchase as a package or individually. Donut flavors include pumpkin spice, apple and cinnamon sugar, and ciders available will be Verterra Just Apple, Cherry Blush, Raspberry Rush, Blackberry Bliss and Sweet Peach Chaos Hard Ciders. No reservations are needed, and it's first come, first serve.

Michigan by the Bottle Tasting Room is located at 45645 Hayes Rd., in Shelby Township.

Do It: Detroit Design Festival Returns this September!

Image from metrotimes.com

The 6th annual Detroit Design Festival returns with a citywide celebration of creativity from September 21 to September 25. This event brings together creatives and designers alike to celebrate Detroit's role as a global design capital. This year, the events and programs will focus on how design is shaping Detroit's future. Below is a list of everything going on each day:

Thursday, September 8
Drinks x Design: UNESCO City of Design Celebration, One Woodward Ave.
5:30 to 8 p.m. Celebrate Detroit's recent designation as a UNESCO City of Design with a special edition of Drinks x Design.

Wednesday, September 21
Leveraging Detroit's UNESCO Designation: Panel Discussion, University of Detroit Mercy | 4001 W. McNichols Rd.
6 to 8 p.m. The Detroit Design Festival will be kicking off with this panel discussion featuring international guests from the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

Thursday, September 22
Detroit City of Design Summit: Day 1, Jam Handy | 2900 E. Grand Blvd.
8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Detroit City of Design Summit is a two-day event convening for Detroit's design community and international partners to explore what it means to build a better city through design.

Performance Architecture by Alex Schweder, Michigan Theater | 603 E. Liberty St. in Ann Arbor
5:10 to 6 p.m. Award-winning international architect, Alex Schweder, will discuss the concept of performance architecture.

Eastern Market After Dark, Eastern Market | Info in Shed 2
7 to 11 p.m. Celebrate Detroit design as one of the oldest markets transforms into a creative district.

Friday, September 23
Detroit City of Design Summit: Day 2, Jam Handy | 2900 E. Grand Blvd.
8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Participants in day 2 will get to choose between an ideas challenge or a Detroit city of design tour.

Walkable Warren, Warren Ave. between Woodward and Second Ave.
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Through creative yet practical street art, Wayne State University seeks to re-imagine Warren Ave. as a safe, active and vibrant corridor.

Gary Simmons: Installation, 1301 Broadway St. #101 in Detroit
12 to 7 p.m. Walk into an immersive installation in which Gary Simmons wallpapers the entire space in layers of self-created musical posters.

The Future of Technology and Design in Detroit, LTU Detroit Center for Design + Technology | 4219 Woodward Ave.
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bringing together some of the best minds and creative ideas in the design and tech space, this workshop will explore the future of technology and design in Detroit.

Sensory Architecture: Installation by Sean Ahlquist, LTU Detroit Center for Design + Technology
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This installation demonstrates how sensory architecture can influence the future of autism and the magical opportunity for design to make an impact in peoples' lives.

Metabolism II: Presented by Cristin Richard, Grand On River | 5001 Grand River Ave.
6 to 10 p.m. This will be an intimate, one night exhibition utilizing performance, installation, sound and video.

Detroit Afrikan Funkestra, North End in Detroit
6 to 9 p.m. Join the Detroit Afrikan Institution for an event featuring Detroit's leading Afrofuturist music innovators, broadcasting live from an interstellar performance environment.

Saturday, September 24
Bus Shelter Design Project Kickoff, 19800 Plymouth Rd.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Addressing an important community need through design, Kef Parker's creative and artistically designed bus shelters are in the form of three large letters which collectively spell bus when viewed together.

Youth Day, Dequindre Cut
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Calling Detroit's next generation of design stars: Enjoy an afternoon of design education and exploration featuring special programming by the Henry Ford Learning Institute.

The Detroit Wine Stroll, Angelina's Bistro | 1565 Broadway St.
1 to 5 p.m. Check out several significant structures while enjoying a variety of wines.

Parducci Film Screening: The Man Who Made Detroit Beautiful, University of Detroit Mercy School of Architecture, 4001 W. McNichols Rd.
7 to 9 p.m. This documentary is the story of an Italian immigrant who became one of our country's top architectural sculptors and how he left his mark on Detroit.

Light Up Livernois, Livernois Ave. between 6 and Mile Rd.
5 to 10 p.m. A focus on how great urban design can drive the economic future of this neighborhood.

Sunday, September 25
Open Streets, 3.7 miles of Michigan Ave. and W. Vernor
12 to 5 p.m. In this first-time event, Michigan Ave. and Vernor Hwy. will be transformed into a giant street park as the road is temporarily blocked to car traffic.

Detroit Soup, Jam Handy | 2900 E. Grand Blvd.
5 to 8 p.m. Residents will pitch ideas for design-based interventions for their neighborhoods to the community over soup and salad, letting attendees vote for the best idea.

This will be a fun-filled weekend with lots to do and learn with opportunities available for everyone!

Local Designer Series: A Versatile Designer Creates an Even More Versatile Product

Emma Dawda went from working in the automotive industry in Detroit to making her dream of designing into reality. Her brand, emma.do, creates versatile sweaters for any and every occasion. They're perfect for everything from chilly offices to spending the day at a Tigers game to brunching with your friends. Learn more about Emma and how she got her start.

DGG: Tell us about yourself, Emma.

Emma Dawda: I have been in a dedicated relationship with fashion and design since I was about three years old. My entire childhood was spent making outfits for my Barbies out of old scraps of fabric and setting new trends in the 2nd grade by wearing mismatched socks. I got a sewing machine for my 10th birthday and I never turned back. I am a true hands-on creative. The minute an idea pops in my head I have to rush and sketch it out and by then I'm already picking out fabrics and figuring out the process for sewing.  Starting my own creative business just felt natural to me. I love my home state of Michigan, and I feel so lucky that Detroit is finally getting the attention it deserves when it comes to the art and design scene here. I look forward to the days of people moving here for internships and careers in design!

DGG: Tell us about emma.do.

ED: emma.do is an effortless apparel brand offering cozy women's sweaters that can be easily layered and transformed.  With one quick twist you can turn a warm, oversized sweater into a chic and stylish scarf. Creating a versatile, yet fashionable piece was the main focus behind starting my own brand. I wanted something that was flattering, comfortable, and most of all, beautiful. emma.do has been around for less a year, but it has already grown from selling sweaters out of my trunk (yes, literally) to setting up shop in the beautiful Eastern Market on the weekends. I'm excited to see where it will be in another year.

DGG: What made you want to start this collection? Do you plan on expanding?

ED: emma.do was born out of pure frustration and the desire to have an outlet for creative expression. I was working in the automotive industry and feeling squashed of all of my creative abilities. I had always had an idea in the back of my mind for starting my own business, but it came to fruition one day when I was freezing at my desk under the A/C in the dead of summer. I was huddled under a gigantic blanket scarf trying to stay warm when I thought "Here's the problem that I need to solve!" I was fed up with keeping a ratty old cardigan at my desk to stay warm so when I got home that night I sewed my very first "emma.do". I wanted a simple design that could fit over any outfit without having to worry about how it would look. I mixed the look of a scarf with a shrug and came up with an oversized sweater that can be easily twisted into a scarf if you are throwing on a jacket or just want something cozy around your neck. This simple design can look professional and classic when worn at work, but can also look very laid-back and chic when layered with a white tee and distressed denim. One day I do hope to expand into more knitwear and apparel, but for now I'm happy focusing on growing my business as it is. Stay tuned though because you never know what I have up my sleeve!

DGG: What types of fabrics are emma.do's made out of? Can one purchase a few emma.do's for every season?

ED: The emma.do's are made out of multiple fabrics so that people can either choose one for every season, or pick a mid-weight knit to wear all year-round. I started with a lightweight cotton French terry and classic ponte knit and added boiled wool and fleece for the winter. I've tried to find fabrics that can be easily folded up so that you can keep one in your purse for times when the A/C kicks on unexpectedly. It's like a stylish safety blanket to keep with you at all times!

DGG: What's been the hardest part about starting a fashion business?

ED: The hardest part has definitely been finding good quality fabrics at a decent price. I am the type of shopper that always picks out the most expensive thing in the store, so I constantly have to reel myself in because I don't want to charge an absurd amount for one of my sweaters. Pricing items in the handmade industry is very tricky. You have to show your customers why it is worth spending a certain amount on your product when they might be able to go to Target and buy something similar for a quarter of the price. It takes a bit of handiwork and it's been a struggle, but I think there are more and more people out there who are excited to see what local crafters and artists are capable of doing and I think they are more willing to support them.

DGG: If some one came to you and told you they wanted to start their own fashion company, what advice (or warning) would you give to them?

ED: I would definitely tell someone who wanted to start their own fashion company to research everything as much as possible. Look into every resource you can find and read book after book on owning a business and being your own boss. I am still very new to all of this, and I'm learning new things everyday, but educating yourself on even the smallest things will help when issues arise. I would also tell them to get out there and talk with other small business owners. Visit Eastern Market on the weekends and find out what others have done to get to where they are. It's nice to see successful businesses doing what they love, but it is also important to notice the weak spots so you can make note of them when it's your turn to be in charge.

DGG: If you could dress anyone in your emma.do's, who would it be and why?

ED: The thing that I love about my emma.do's is that I would love to dress Meryl, Streep but also Gigi Hadid. I think Meryl would look gorgeous in a black boiled wool emma.do over a crisp white button down and tailored denim. With Gigi, she could throw on a casual grey knit emma.do over her Calvin Klein sports bra and high-waisted leggings for the gym and still look just as pulled together as Meryl. The design works for all ages, all styles, and all body types and that was exactly my goal when designing my emma.do's.

DGG: How do you keep your workspace?

ED: My workspace is partly clean and tidy and partly organized chaos. It is a little difficult to sew without ending up covered in bits of thread, but I try my best to keep my sewing space clean and pulled together because I work better when things are organized.  However, my fabric cutting space is definitely more chaotic but organized. Anyone who sews will agree with me when I say that sewing turns you into a fabric hoarder. There just isn't a way around it. I hate to throw out any leftover fabric even if it is just a little square of something because I might be able to do something with it! I try to keep all of that as organized as I can in boxes and clear bins, but after a while it just piles up and looks kind of messy.

DGG: How do you take your coffee?

ED: Just a bit of half and half preferably in hazelnut coffee, but if I'm treating myself at Starbucks or something, I get a skinny vanilla latte or a caramel macchiato.

DGG: Crew neck or V neck sweaters?

ED: Crewneck all day everyday. My go-to outfit has always been a crewneck sweater with a statement necklace, tailored ankle pants and a kitten-heel pump. Can't go wrong in my book!

DGG: Jenna Lyons or Sophia Amoruso?

ED: That's a tough one! I love them both so much. My two favorite #Girlbosses for sure. I'm going to cheat and say both because Sophia's drive and ambition cannot be ignored while Jenna's style and ability to revamp a brand entirely has made her a very inspirational corporate leader.

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

DSO at Ford House | Friday, July 8 to Saturday, July 9

The perfect summer event is here, join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for an evening of music followed by fireworks on the lake. This two-day event starts on Friday with conductor Teddy Adams and vocalists' Will and Anthony Nunziata; then on Saturday the Detroit Symphony Orchestra will have music inspired by beauty and wonder of America. The grounds will open at 6 p.m., concert begins at 8 p.m., and fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. General tickets are $20 for adult, $12 youth, $50 preferred seating. They also offer VIP tickets that are $200 that include valet parking, special reserved seating, gourmet picnic dinner, private beer and wine service, and access to the house.  

Edsel & Eleanor Ford House is located at 1100 Lake Shore Rd., in Grosse Pointe Shores.

Shed 5 Flea: July Flea | Sunday, July 10

Shed 5 Flea this month will take place Sunday July 10 and you don’t want to miss it. You will find all types of hidden treasures, and definitely something you will love. Shed 5 Flea is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and all you have to do is get there because admission is FREE.  

Shed 5, Eastern Market is located at 2934 Russell St., in Detroit.

BEACH BEAT Brunch | Sunday, July 10

We all love brunch on Sunday’s right…. Yes! Then head over to UFO Factory and brunch with disc jockettes Kartrina and Vanessa. UFO Factory wants you to come ship, eat, drink and enjoy summer sounds from beaches around the world, tiki vibes and lazy hammock tunes. Let’s not forget about all the mimosas, and blood marys because they are bottomless. The Beach Beat Brunch is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and admission is free.

UFO Factory located at 2110 Trumbull St., in Detroit.

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

ORT and the City | Thursday, May 19
ORT, one of the largest educational organizations in the world, will be hosting a fundraiser that includes a silent auction featuring unique designs of wearable and livable art designed by students from the College for Creative Studies. The unique pieces are inspired by "Detroit neighborhoods" and include clothing, accessories and furniture from the Somerset Collection. A strolling dinner will be provided via various food trucks, in addition to passed hors d'oeuvres, dessert and an open bar. There will also be a graffiti artist creating a masterpiece, which will be for sale that evening. Tickets start at $100 per person, or $55 for those under 30. The event will take place at Eastern Market and starts at 6:30 p.m. To secure tickets, please call 248-723-8860.

Eastern Market is located at 2934 Russell St., in Detroit.


FGI-Detroit Fashion Tribute Luncheon | Friday, May 20
Join the Fashion Group International of Detroit as they pay tribute to Detroit fashion legends Rosemary Bannon and Linda Dresner. The luncheon will be held at the Heathers Club in Bloomfield Hills and goes from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are available here, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Barbara Ann Kamanos Cancer Institute.

The Heathers Club is located at 900 Upper Scotsborough Way, in Bloomfield Hills.


The Vintage Market - Spring Market Day | Saturday, May 21
The Vintage Market is a vintage inspired, flea-market style, open-air shopping event featuring amazing local artisans, shops and small businesses. This time, it will be held at Elizabeth Park in Trenton, and goes all day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It's first market of its kind to come to the Downriver area. Everything from gypsy couture to kitchenware, as well as delicious local food, and admission is free!

Elizabeth Park is located at 4461 Elizabeth Dr., in Trenton.


Sugar Islands Ice Cream Soc(ial) | Sunday, May 22
Come down and have fun with alcohol-infused ice cream! Aloha Donnie will take you on a tour of the Sugar Islands, including some ice cream cookie sandwiches, a boozy root bear float, champagne and sorbet mimosas and possibly a popsicle or two. You will be exploring new flavor combinations and concepts. The event will be held at The Sugar House and stats at 5 p.m.

The Sugar House is located at 2130 Michigan Ave., in Detroit.


Walk Fashion Show Sunday | Sunday, May 22
Calling all Detroit fashion enthusiasts! The Walk Fashion Show is returning to Eastern Market for a special one day show. The 13th edition of the show will feature established, independent and emerging designers, as well as over 50 Metro Detroit business owners, offering clothing and jewelry, live entertainment, great food and more. For more details, head here. The event goes from 3 to 9 p.m.

Eastern Market is located at 2934 Russell St., in Detroit.

Do It: This Weekend’s Fashion, Beauty and Style Events that Are Not To Be Missed

This pre-holiday weekend is chock-full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you’re itching to hit the town and celebrate the season, these events are sure to keep you busy!

How to Secure Local & National Media Attention | Thursday, December 17

Do you wish you knew more about media strategy, press release writing, spokesperson training, and interviewing with media? If your business could grow based on becoming an expert in any of these topics, join Detroit Consulting to help your organization with traditional and nontraditional media outlets. The world of media can be a whirlwind, and this event is the perfect platform to gain exclusive access to inside knowledge for engaging and securing local and national media attention. Detroit Consulting is happy to have Ben Bowman as the featured presenter. Bowman is a former broadcast journalist whose reports have aired on: CBS, Fox News, AOL News, and local news outlets across the country. Come prepared to share a story about your experience contacting the media and receive feedback on any press releases you may have. Bamboo Detroit will be hosting this event from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased for $20 online, buy yours today before they are sold out.

Bamboo Detroit is located at 1442 Brush St., in Detroit.

After Dark: Holiday Mixology at the Michigan Science Center | Thursday, December 17

You are sure to be in awe at Toytopia, an interactive exhibit that focuses on learning through play at After Dark, this weekend. Featuring life-sized toys, vintage games, and more, challenge your friends with vintage video competitions and extreme dot-to-dot challenges. Get inspired by the holiday beverage blends at the cash bar as you learn about the chemistry of color changing liquids. Who said drinking and socializing couldn’t be an educational experience? For only $10 online or at the door, you can bring your friends from 5 to 8 p.m. to experience everything the Michigan Science Center has to offer. Once you’ve had your fill of this colorful event, visit Maccabees, Chartreuse, Seva, or Treat Dreams Ice Cream for a dinner discount if you show your MiSci ticket stub.

Michigan Science Center is located at 5020 John R St., in Detroit.

Free Fiber Workshop: Crochet & Tapestry Weaving | Thursday, December 17

Gabrielle Duggan is holding a free workshop on crochet and tapestry weaving this Thursday at 6 p.m, at Ponyride. This designer creates elaborate installations of disparate materials; glass, tar, rocks, wire, yarn, and other textiles. Her pieces twist multiple meanings infused in the material itself. This workshop is open to the public, with no previous experience required, and materials are supplied. Come learn a new skill as you have the opportunity to pick the brain of a developing artist that is also trying to make a name for herself in the industry.

Ponyride is located at 1401 Vermont St., in Detroit.

Detroit Santarchy 2015 | Saturday, December 19

Come all ye faithful for a night of alcohol infused fun. Experience a night with over 2,000 Santa’s and his Elves for the 16^th Annual Detroit Santarchy from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. This festive holiday celebration consists of a bar crawl in Corktown, Cass Corridor, Eastern Market and all over downtown with thousands of people dressed as Santa. Pick out your best red suit, as costumes are mandatory. The kickoff party starts in Corktown at the Gaelic League Irish-American Club near Slow’s BBQ with live entertainment. Don’t have a DD? No problem! Private busses will be transporting Santa’s all night if you purchase a $20 buss pass. Get there early to ensure you get a spot!

The Lodge // A Cozy Drinking + Shopping Excursion | Saturday, December 19 and Sunday, December 20

Skip the lines, ditch the malls, and shop handcrafted goods at The Lodge from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. This event features top-shelf regional artisan vendors and brands, food trucks, and The Wild Turkey Bourbon Bar. A complete list of all the talented vendors is available online, some of the vendors on that list include Alchemy Detroit, Dolly Rockers, City Girls Soap, Slow Jams Jam, Green Toe Gardens, and Detroit Marshmallow. Get some Christmas shopping done at the bustling Eastern Market.

The Eastern Market is located at 3434 Russel St., in Detroit.

On The Town: Local Retailer Opens Flagship Location

Photo by Lisa Spindler Photography

Orleans + Winder has opened its first storefront in the heart of Eastern Market, and it's time to celebrate! The grand opening is from 6 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, September 24, and will feature an exhibition of contemporary jewelry designed by the Cranbrook Metals Department.

"We are so pleased to be in the heart of Eastern Market, where our idea for a new concept store was born," said Erin Wetzel, proprietress of Orleans + Winder. "We had been looking, for the better part of a year, for the perfect location here in the city. We were so lucky to find it right in our own neighborhood!"

She says the diversity and energy of the market makes for a great place to introduce its slow, fashion-focused designers and artists to a variety of people. The backdrop to the collections at Orleans + Winder is very industrial, with brick and concrete interior.

"We felt it was the perfect canvas for presenting our curation of pieces," said Erin.

Orleans + Winder is located at 2501 Russell St., Suite 200, in Detroit.