Recap: Fast Bash 2017

The party of the year has come and gone, but the memories will last forever. For those of you who didn't get a chance to experience Fash Bash, don't fret. There's always next year, and you can live it vicariously through DGG just by reading this post.

This year's theme was punk, and the runway and Fash Bashers did not disappoint. Leather, studs, fish nets were all the rage on the runway but also in the crowd. The soundtrack for the evening was straight out of an 80s time machine in the best possible way and guests were invited to create their own leather key chains complete with studs and stamps.

If you couldn't make it these year, keep your eyes peeled for ticket sales next year. The Founders Junior Council, Neiman Marcus and all of the other sponsors really brought it in 2017, and we can only imagine it getting better from here.

Busy Bee: Detroit Garment Group Expands Its Fashion Incubator Offerings To Better Support Detroit’s Fashion Community

We have exciting news! Detroit Garment Group is now servicing a larger segment of Detroit’s fashion community by offering additional services in its year-old fashion incubator based in TechTown in Detroit. The DGG Fashion Incubator was created to assist Detroit’s burgeoning class of fashion professionals with learning how to be successful entrepreneurs while building their fashion collections and is one of many educational programs presented by the five year-old non-profit organization whose mission is to cultivate education and economic development opportunities for Michigan's fashion community.

Along with offering office and production space, industrial sewing machines, high-end design technology, a mailing address, and 24-hour access, the incubator, which previously serviced mainly the sewing production needs of fashion designers, has now expanded to include ancillary services that cater not only to fashion designers, but other industry professionals such as photographers, bloggers and fashion reps. New services include a photography and design studio with capabilities for conducting full product and fashion photo shoots, as well as onsite photography editing.

"We're retooling the DGG Fashion Incubator to be more inclusive for fashion professionals," said Lindsey Alexander, Executive Director of Detroit Garment Group. "By adding backdrops for photographers, utilizing the desk space differently and only keeping the sewing machines used most, we are able to welcome many different fashion professionals into our space, and create an opportunity for better networking and potential collaborations within the community."

DGG is now accepting new incubator residents, along with hourly, half day and full day studio rentals to utilize either the industrial sewing machines or photography equipment. To learn more about the incubator and other programs such DGG’s annual FashionSpeak conference or Industrial Sewing Certificate Program, contact Lindsey Alexander at lindsey@detroitgarmentgroup.org.

Style It Local: CMU Fashion Student Talks Fashion & Career Pathways

Name: Macey Ronquillo

Major & School: Fashion Merchandising at Central Michigan University (sophomore)

Website: www.chiclyinkedd.wordpress.com

Instagram: @MaceyRonquillo

About Me: I am a sophomore at Central Michigan University, and I grew up in Oakland county Michigan. I love fashion and I am so thankful my parents are giving me the opportunity to follow a career in what I feel passionate about! When it comes to the fashion industry, I see big things coming to Michigan. I want to experience working in fashion in cities like New York or Los Angeles, but I eventually want to come back to Michigan to pursue a career because I am so proud of where I come from!

Style It Local:

Sweater – Urban Outfitters

Leggings – Lululemon

Jacket – Kit and Ace

Shoes – Sorel 

Sunglasses – Ray-Ban

Style Inspiration: My biggest style inspiration comes from the girls in my classes and sorority, as well as the girls I see on social media. I am glued to my phone (especially Instagram), and I like keeping up with my favorite celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian and Jessie James Decker. They are both so causual but stylish all of the time. I believe I am a hippy at heart, so I like vintage styles that have a 2017 twist. 

Favorite Item in Your Closet: My favorite item in my closet is surely any sort of chunky knit sweater especially this time of year. All four seasons though, definitely a black or white bralette they make layering so fun and you don’t have to wear a real bra (yay!!).

Go-To Garment: My washed out black jeans that have a tear at each of the knees. I wear them to class with short booties and when I go out on the weekend I pair them with a chunky or strappy heel. 

Local Designer Series: Designer Merges Architecture and Accessories for a Cool Jewelry Line

Starting as a way to support herself during grad school, Beau Sinchai took her architecture background and created Koonyai Studio. Specializing in jewelry and sustainability, Beau is inspired by building materials including  metals and concrete. Her geometric, simplistic designs are the perfect addition to any outfit.

Photo Credit: Koonyai Studio

DGG: Tell me about yourself, Beau.

Beau: I was born in Thailand and grew up in Minneapolis, MN. I love food more than diamonds and I am super thankful for Detroit’s amazing food scene. 

DGG: Tell me about Koonyai Studio.

Beau: Koonyai means beloved grandmother in Thai. I grew up under the care of my grandmother and it is where I got my entrepreneurial spirit. Koonyai Studio started while I was studying at Cranbrook Academy of Art as a means for myself to turn my wild ideas into a career.

DGG: What lead you to beginning to work with jewelry?

Beau: It is actually accidental. During my years at Cranbrook, I had been exploring the idea of body architecture quite a bit. The topics of what it meant to be architectural, materials, and it’s social and cultural association came up a lot. Then, I started to merge architecture with body adornment and starting to make jewelry. 

Photo Credit: Koonyai Studio

DGG: What is your vision for the brand?

Beau: I hope that the brand will become a design house and do more design work under all the scopes from jewelry to buildings while making impact to the world, environmentally and socially. 

DGG: Where do you see your brand in 5 years?

Beau: This is what I have been super excited to talk about. I am working toward becoming a zero-waste business. Sustainability, social and environmental aspects have always been the top priority when I started Koonyai studio and I hope to be able to make positive impact to our community through design work and jewelry.

DGG: If you could have anyone in the world wear your jewelry, who would it be and why?

Beau: Michelle and Barack Obama. Michelle wearing my work would make me die happy. I would love to have POTUS wear my jewelry to shatter some stereotypes surrounding gender and jewelry.

DGG: Describe your style.

Beau: Minimalist and comfort, but my friends are calling it “art-mom” style.

Photo Credit: Koonyai Studio

DGG: What's the most meaningful piece of jewelry you own?

Beau: A battery-less watch that uses solar power. I purchased it with my first paycheck in high school. It was the first “big” purchase I ever made in life.

DGG: How do you take your coffee?

Beau: With a lot of sugar and cream. I mean I take a lot of sugar and cream with a drop of coffee. I love tea though!

DGG: Etsy or Bluefly?

Beau: Etsy

DGG: Cartier or Tiffany?

Beau: Neither. I love independent makers and imperfections from being handmade.

Photo Credit: Koonyai Studio

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Oh, Shop It: Zara to Open in Somerset Collection in 2017

Image from Zara

Calling all style and fashion fans: Zara is finally coming to Michigan. Due by the holiday season in 2017, Zara will be debuting a 30,000-square foot, two level store on the north side of the Somerset Collection in Troy.

Zara is known for their fashionable and designer-esque clothing without the hefty price tag. They have about 2,100 stores worldwide and continue to expand. They recently opened stores in suburban Cleveland, suburban Baltimore and at the Mall of America in Minnesota. Until recently, the closest store to Metro Detroit was the Chicago location.

The Somerset store will carry men's, women's and children's clothing, as well as accessories. Unfortunately, there will be no plus sizes. This is a huge boost for Metro Detroit and its roster of stores.

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 Campus Martius Park

Detroit Start-Up Drinks | Thursday, November 17
DGG's very own board member Carlotta Tutt Holloway is the host of Detroit Start-Up Drinks happening from 6 to 9 p.m. at The BLOCK Detroit. This event has no agenda, just community and access to one of the best happy hours in the city. Founders, freelancers, moonlighters and students are all welcome to join in on the fun and mix and mingle with some of Detroit's most highlighted entrepreneurs.

The BLOCK Detroit is located at 3919 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.


Trending with Scott's: Celebrate the Season | Thursday, November 17
The next installation of Trending with Scott's is all about celebrating the holiday season. Get hot tips on this year's holiday trends in entertaining and decorating, and learn all of the secrets of the trade at this free monthly design class. To register for the event, head over to Eventbrite.

Visit your local Scott Shuptrine Interiors for this event.


The 13th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony | Friday, November 18
Presented by DTE Energy Foundation, Detroit is going to light up during a spectacular evening that includes stage and rink performances. From 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., enjoy the sounds of Grammy Award Winner Aaron Neville and watch the Olympic Gold Medalist Meryl Davis and Cahrlie White perform. The tree lighting starts at approximately 7:45 p.m., so you'll want to get down there early and grab a good spot. Admission is a $10 donation purchased onsite only, and all proceeds benefit Campus Martius Park.

Campus Martius Park is located at 800 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.


Sip & Savor: A Holiday Tasting and Networking Mixer | Friday, November 18
The ladies of The Connection Network, Sumptuous Spirits and The Style Gallery are hosting a after-work networking event from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Kick off the holiday season and do a little shopping while enjoying holiday-inspired cocktails and delectable bites. Tickets for the event are $25 and can be found on Eventbrite.

Sip & Savor is located at 71 Garfield St., in Detroit.


Winter Magic Weekends - Very Vodka Wonderland | Saturday, November 19
Sample delicious holiday drinks every Saturday from now until December 17 at Campus Martius Park. Offering tastings featuring fresh and festive twists on classic cocktails, this holiday drink event will surely inspire your next dinner party. Housed in a 10,000 square foot heated structure, attendees will have the opportunity to experience the best of Michigan wines, craft beers and spirits, as well as beverages from around the globe. Live entertainment, a selfie station and food for purchased will be available all night. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at www.wintermagicweekends.com.

Campus Martius Park is located at 800 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.

Oh, Shop It: Nordstrom Rack Opening Its Doors in Novi

Image from Nordstrom Rack

Nordstrom Rack, a popular discount retail chain, is opening its doors in Novi on Friday, August 26. The store will be located in West Oaks, on Novi Road across from Twelve Oaks Mall. This is the fifth Nordstrom Rack in Michigan with other locations in Troy, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor and Lake Orion.

Nordstrom Rack is a discount version of the department store Nordstrom, with most of its product coming from there at prices 30-70% off. This means great designer pieces for a fraction of the price. You can also shop online, unlike other discount stores such as Marshall's or TJ Maxx. Brands range from Kate Spade to Cole Haan to Nike.

Nordstrom Rack opened up their first store in the basement of a Nordstrom store in 1973 in Seattle. They make up about a fifth of Nordstrom's total sales and have made over $2.5 billion in sales since 2013. In 2017, Nordstrom Rack plans on opening stores in Canada which will begin its global expansion.

Wear It's At: Pleated, Please!

The pleated skirt trend has been around for a while, but the pleated midi skirt trend is the most perfect piece to help you transition from spring to summer. It's breezy, can be worn on the beach and in the office, and is a great closet staple. Check out how we styled this trend below.

Outfit 1

1. Contemporary Pleated Skirt, $23, Forever 21.
2. Barcelona Cami, $40, Express.
3. Carissa Layer Necklace, $40, Anthropologie.
4. Clare V Leopard Haircalf Fold Over Clutch, $275, Intermix.
5. Eryde, $110, Aldo.

Outfit 2

1. Satin Skirt, $50, H&M. 
2. TopShop Ruffle Off the Shoulder Bodysuit, $35, Nordstrom.
3. Rebeckka, $100, Steve Madden.
4. 1969 Denim Jacket, $70, Gap.
5. Quay Zig Cat-Eye Sunglasses, $55, Urban Outfitters.

Outfit 3

1. TopShop Stripe Pleat Midi Skirt, $100, Nordstrom.
2. Sub Urban Riot Weekend Warriors Tee, $34, Urban Outfitters.
3. Eleete, $80, Steve Madden.
4. Dalia Large Leather Backpack, $428, Michael Kors.
5. Chrysler Metal Bracelet, $78, Henri Bendel.

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 Better Life Bags

Small Business Networking Event | Wednesday, June 8
The Detroit Art and Business Institute and the Anton Art Center will be hosting a free networking event for creative small businesses at the Three Blind Mice Irish Pub! You'll get the chance to network with other creative people, as well as meet and listen to how Andrea Rosenfeld, the founder/CEO of DABI, guides artists to make more money and increase their self confidence. This event also guides you in ways to get profit and succeed with your art business, and you will build collaborations and partnerships! The event goes from 6:30 to 8 p.m. To RSVP, click here.

Three Blind Mice Irish Pub is located at 101 N Main St., in Mount Clemens.


Cocktails in the Garden | Thursday, June 9
Celebrate the beginning of summer with The Scarab Club! Celebrate the beautiful walled garden and the volunteers that keep it growing and blooming year after year. Explore the garden and gallery while enjoying great music and delicious foods provided by Caucus Club Catering. There will also be mojitos and other yummy summer drinks available.

The Scarab Club is located at 217 Farnsworth St., in Detroit.


Motor City Pride Weekend | Friday, June 10 through Monday, June 13
Join everyone at Briggs to celebrate pride and the diversity of Detroit all weekend long. Special events will be taking place every night, all night. Briggs is the only gay bar within walking distance of Hart Plaza.

Briggs is located at 519 E Jefferson Ave., in Detroit.


Sunset at the Zoo | Friday, June 10
Join the Detroit Zoological Society and co-chairs Joe Campanelli and Karen Cullen for their spectacular, annual fundraising gala, Sunset at the Zoo, "Penguin Palooza." It will be a sensational evening complete with delicious cuisine, delectable drinks, wonderful live entertainment, dancing and prizes. This year's event will be celebrating the brand new Polk Penguin Conservation Center. Guests are encouraged to dress in black and white. To purchase tickets, click here.

The Detroit Zoo is located at 8450 W 10 Mile Rd., in Royal Oak.


Summer '16 Rooftop Fashion Show | Friday, June 10
Kick off your Friday night with First Class Committee, where they're gathering artists downtown on the top of Data Consulting Group's rooftop to celebrate the unveiling of First Class Committee's summer '16 collection with a fashion show. First Class Committee is a men's streetwear brand founded in Austin, Texas and recently moved to Detroit where they now produce all of their clothing. They will be providing beverages, but feel free to BYOB. This event is free, but donations are always appreciated. The event goes from 7 to 9 p.m.

Data Consulting Group is located at 965 E Jefferson Ave., in Detroit.


Prince Tribute and Friday Night Live Funk Dance Party | Friday, June 10
Join the DIA in celebrating the music and dance legacy of Prince with an open-air party on the museum's Woodward plaza. DJ Thornstryker will be playing Prince's music from 7 to 9 p.m., while some of Detroit's best dance crews will be performing free-style and challenging each other to spontaneous dance battles. Dancing will continue at 9:30 p.m. with a live performance by The Mighty Funhouse and special guests. Non-alcoholic beverages can be purchased from 7 to 9 p.m. and there will be a cash bar from 9 to 11 p.m. The event is free, but registration is required here.

The DIA is located at 5200 Woodward Ave, in Detroit

Open Workshop! | Saturday, June 11
Better Life Bags is hosting a workshop where you can design your own bag or pick up a ready to ship one! Anyone is encouraged to come. It goes from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Better Life Bags is located at 9405 Joseph Campau, in Hamtramck.


Vernors 150th Anniversary Party | Saturday, June 11
Help celebrate the anniversary of Detroit local and favorite pop, Vernors, with the Detroit Historical Society. All day learn more about Vernors and participate in fun events all about the oldest pop in America. Vernors floats, cream floats and Boston Coolers will be for sale at the museum from 1 to 4 p.m., where proceeds will be going toward the purchase of a historic marker to commemorate the drink. The event starts at 11 a.m.

The Detroit Historical Museum is lcoated at 5401 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.


2016 Home & Garden Tour | Sunday, June 12
The Historic Indian Village Home and Garden Tour Committee is hosting another two day tour in celebration of the successful restoration of its historic streetlight system. You can come either Saturday or Sunday, or even both days, if you wish. You will be able to view eight historic homes, two gardens, three churches and two schools. On Saturday, tours go from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday, tours go from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m.

The tour starts at Iroquois St at Kercheval St., in Detroit.

It Trends: June's Style Board

Wear It's At: A Transitional Jacket with an Explosive Name

Bomber jackets are the perfect transition piece for the spring and summer. With all of the different prints and colors available, it's super easy to find one that fits your style. You also don't need to worry about sweating up a storm since there are many light-weight options. Dress the jacket up or down, and for some style options, check out the outfits we've put together below. 

1. Silence + Noise Stays On Tour Satin Bomber Jacket, $159, Urban Outfitters.
2. Strappy Surplice Bodysuit, $16, Forever 21.
3. High-Rise Denim Shorts In Washed Black, $70, Madewell,.
4. Adelphie Bootie, Steve Madden, $100, DSW.
5. NO.7 Convertible Backpack, $498, Henri Bendel.

1. Top Shop Badged Bruce Bomber Jacket, $110, Nordstrom.
2. Sub Urban Riot Kale Tee, $39, Urban Outfitters.
3. Mid Rise Dark Blue Cropped Cuffed Jean Legging, $79.90, Express.
4. Miu Miu Metal Cap Toe Skate Sneaker, $495, Nordstrom.
5. Tiffany & Co., TF3052B, $360, Sunglass Hut.

1. Jacquard-Weave Pilot Jacket, HM, $67, H&M.
2. Cap Sleeve Pocket Tee,, $25, Gap.
3. Knit Midi Skirt,, $70, Bebe.
4. Tarrra, $140, Steve Madden.
5. Rebecca Minkoff Micro Moto Satchel, $195, Nordstrom.

Oh, Shop It: Glam Gardens at Saks Fifth Avenue

Stopped by the Glam Garden party for soothing tea, fresh pastries, spring fashion and refreshing beauty products at Saks Fifth Avenue Troy. Once the tea was poured and scones were plated, we grabbed a seat to get the garden party started. 

Saks Fifth Avenue Stylist Manager Shelli Pacioni started things off to talk about the fashion, which was light, bright and easy to wear. For example, she brought out a great little Chanel button-down top paired with a Chanel tweed pencil mini that would be great for a spring day when you have to be at the office, but you also need to go to a backyard BBQ when you get out of work. Then, a chic Nicholas dress that could be worn however you'd like but Shelli suggested a denim jacket and flats for a more casual look, or pumps and a cardigan for a night out. Finally, she pulled out sleek white jeans and an off-the-shoulder top that could be accessorized with a great scarf to keep warm on those cool summer evenings.

The fashion was over and the beauty began with Will and Daniel who went over the benefits of a few different products recommended for the new season. Trish McEvoy Beta Hydroxy pads, the La Mer Reparative Lotion Armani Eye Serum, Cellcosmet and YSL Volupte lipstick were just a few suggested. It was all amazing. We got to try it, smell it, touch it, hold it--everything you want when looking at new beauty products. Personally, the Cellcosmet was my favorite. It's a gel activator that brightens, tightens and softens skin - I tried it on my face, and I literally felt my face tightening for the next hour after the tea party.

This was a great way to spend the morning, not only because we got to preview some great stuff, but also because I now know what to get the women in my life for Mother's Day! Two birds, one stone.

It Trends: May's Style Board

Wear It's At: Trapeze Shapes Make for Easy Wear and Interesting Silhouettes

Keep cool this spring and summer with a trapeze top or dress. This easy-to-wear trend can be worn many different ways and in a ton of different situations--just pair the right accessories with it and you can wear it day or night. If you aren't too sure about how to style this trend, take a look at what we've put together below, and you may just want to add this on your to-shop list.

1. Wilfred Octave Blouse, $75, Aritzia.
2. Rosalie Large Raffia Clutch, $198, Michael Kors. 

3, AG 'The Beau' High Rise Slouchy Skinny Jeans (Dunes Destroyed),$198, Nordstrom.

4. Cataclou Studded Cork Espadrille Platform Sandal, Christian Louboutin, Saks Fifth Avenue, $795

1. Michael Kors Collection Short Sleeved Draped Bouse, $850, Neiman Marcus.
2. Pandora Round Sunglasses, $16, Urban Outfitters.
3. Jetsetter Convertible Backpac, $228, Henri Bendel
4. Slinng, $99, Steve Madden.

5. Slacks, $15, H&M.

1. Wilfred Trompette Dress, $135, Artizia.

2. Dior SoReal Leather Round Sunglasses, $850, Solstice Sunglasses.

3. Coiled Cuff, $6, Forever 21.

4. Black Chevron Weave Fedora, $40, Express.

5. Sam Edelman Gretchen Tassel Sandal, $130, Urban Outfitters.

Oh, Shop It: KENDALL + KYLIE Kollection Available at Neimans

The  KENDALL + KYLIE collection has launched at Neiman Marcus and is in stores now. This collection is exclusive to Neimans as part of the #OnlyatNM program. 

"Neiman Marcus is delighted that Kendall and Kylie created exclusive pieces for our #OnlyatNM program,” said Neiman Marcus Senior Vice President, GMM, Lisa Kazor. "The sophisticated, feminine designs will appeal to a great range of our customers." 

The sisters have created nine pieces inspired by their current closet bringing shoppers one step closer to their aesthetic, taste profile and personal style. Kendal and Kylie have brought a modern twist to black silk jumpsuits, leather shorts and other closet favorites.

“The collection is sophisticated, clean and beautifully tailored,” said Kendall Jenner. “We wanted to widen our range of customers by introducing a more premium clothing line. We incorporated a lot of sophisticated and versatile pieces that were simple yet chic.”

This collection comes just in time for festival season. Visit Neiman Marcus Troy to view the whole collection. Happy shopping.