STLFW: Emerging Designer Competition

Wednesday night was one of two big runway shows for St. Louis Fashion Week (#stlfw). This was the Saint Louis Fashion Fund's Emerging Designer Competition presented by Brown Shoe Company. The Saint Louis Fashion Fund was developed in order to support and promote aspiring designers in the Midwest and ultimately help them advance in their field. Six finalists were chosen by the Saint Louis Fashion Fund's panel, and this runway show featured their collections. One winner, chosen by expert judges, would receive $15,000 on top of all the networking benefits and exposure the competition in and of itself offers. 

So where do I even begin to summarize this night? It was unlike anything I have ever experienced before in my life, and it absolutely was just like what you see in the movies in terms of talent and electricity. Honestly, it was way better than anything I have ever pictured a runway show to be. Let's start with what I wore and work from there.

Earrings: Kate Spade (option) | Necklace: Express (option) | Blazer: Frenchi (option, option) | Tank: Express | Bracelets: Kate Spade, Stella and Dot, Cara | Bottoms: Hue (similar in black here | Shoes: Kate Spade

I decided to go pants this round since I did dresses for the blogger awards and the Neiman Marcus event, and then I rocked my skort for the Blogger Lounge. Trying to be diverse here! Same reason why I kept my hair in the updo from that morning/afternoon - I wanted to change it up a bit. Plus it had been rainy and cold for about a week, and I really just wanted to be warm and comfy. These Hue Leggings were perfect for the event, and I was able to pull inspiration from my past collaboration partner, Jenna.

I was extra excited to have a partner to pose with me! Although, I'm standing awkwardly because I'm not used to posing next to someone! Haha! This is my cousin, Beth. The mother of the little girl previously mistaken as my daughter in this post here. How cute is she!? She pushed her comfort level on this outfit - faux leather is not usually in her wardrobe, but I love that she took the chance for the sake of being fashion forward at this runway show. The fact that she is pregnant and rocking heels just makes me love her even more. I couldn't help but snap a couple of details of her outfit.

Blazer: The Limited | Tee: JCrew Factory | Necklace: Premiere | Leggings: H&M | Shoes: Sam and Libby

The doors opened at 5:30, and we ended up arriving around 6pm. I heard that last year there was about 750 people in attendance compared to this year that was around 1,000. The show didn't start until 8pm but between the still fashion presentation, the photo booth, the Butik shopping, cocktails, and eats, there were plenty of things to keep us busy in the meantime.

There was also a people's choice award for Designers to Watch. A still fashion presentation of their collections was set up prior to the runway show, giving us spectators the opportunity to vote for our favorites. Not to brag, but my favorite designer - Pink Elephant Designs by Truly Alvarenga - won the $2500 prize. But seriously, I could wear this organza number every. Day.

That's not to say her competition wasn't equally as stunning. It really amazes me how much local talent we have here. I thought I knew, but I truly had no idea and I am now seeing St. Louis through a different lens. 

Nasheli Ortiz

Paulie Gibson

OK, now for the show! I seriously came home with 300 photos, y'all, so narrowing this down for you was such a big feat for me! These pictures don't really even do the collections nor the experience justice, but here are some of my favorite looks from each designer.

Daniella Kallmeyer - the winner of the competition

Wai Ming

Jessie Liu

Remi Canarie

Collina Strada

Harbison - who ended up winning a last minute runner up prize of $3500

I have been over the moon excited ever since these #stlfw events started. It's been such an amazing experience that is hard to articulate into words. I truly feel more connected to the City, and I have a newfound respect for the fashion inspiration here! I am so thankful that Alive Magazine has given me this opportunity to network, grow, and become more inspired! More to come on the second runway show! It's time for me to get dressed for it!

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