OK! Here is our 'review' of the 2010 Voltage show . . .
The event began with the musical talents of Blue Sky Blackout. Great sound! We could get into that. Their wardrobe was created by Steven Kang, an up-and-coming menswear designer who is starting out in St Paul. His boutique is called BlackBlue and is located on the corner of Selby and Dale. The band was decked out in beautifully fitted matching suits, each wearing a different shirt underneath.
The first line to be presented was by Raul Ocorio. His first two looks were adorable women's ensembles. They were the backdrop for the following menswear looks. There were a few pieces that would probably be appealing to most men, but it was hard to imagine full ensembles off the runway. Same goes for the accessories by Carrier Pigeon.
Next up was Frances Zerr. Her looks were simple and airy, although the color palate was a bit washed out. It was fun to see the models carrying flowers though - a nice change from purses I guess! We also loved the wrapped bangles and unique pieces from Vintage City Classics. The hats were equally fabulous - go Angie's Hats!
The next band was Red Pens. Their look was created by Red Shoe Clothing Co. The dress that the drummer was wearing pretty much rocked! It had a ridiculously long train that was draped over some of their equipment.
Next up was Kelson by Brianne Jones. Honestly, it didn't feel like a collection. There were a lot of neutrals, some lime green, and black. It was just hard to find a theme. The jewelry by Karin Jacobson was pretty awesome though.
Elena Mercurio was next. Her bio was very impressive! Collection? Not as much. I think Jessica liked some of the keyhole details, and Christina appreciated the consistency of the color palette. The jewelry by Silvercoon was pretty neat, but the bags by Post- were not that memorable.
We loved the next band - Caroline Smith & the Good Night Sleeps. Their sound and vocals were fabulous!! Calpurnia Peach was their designer.
After not being super impressed, the next designer lifted our spirits! It was a great collection by Danielle Everine. Her technique of starting the models out in full length capes built the suspense. They tossed them off to reveal the stunning ensembles underneath. The collection was both equestrian and totally bad-ass at the same time! We loved the tailored vests, high waisted pants, fun blouses and clever spats! She even designed a totally adorable swim suit. Christina was quite taken with a sassy little coat with attached 'pants' that were open at the back thigh. HOT. Oh, and the hats (more from Angie's Hats) were so perfectly paired too. Yeah for this designer!
Carmichael Claith was next. Her color palette was so nice and summery, and her draping style was surprisingly organic and care-free. She also did some nice tailoring. The gloves from "Pea's and Bean's" were adorable.
Our next musical treat was Mayda. Man, that chick rocked! One could only hope to be that sassy someday. Laura Fulk designed the perfect look for her and her band. Gotta love that edgy jacket.
Mayda provided the backdrop for next designer - George Moskal. It was a 'pretty dresses' line with great colors. The silhouettes were nothing new though. Our camera died and we can't remember individual pieces very well, so I guess that says it all. Oh, we do remember one thing - there was a lot of silk and some of the seams were not pressed well. Gotta do that when you work with silk! Accessories were by Liebling Designs and Nelle.
The next line was pretty fabulous - Kevin Kramp was the designer. You wouldn't know it from his bio picture, but he designed some of the most outrageous and unique knitwear for men! Obviously not something that most men will go for, they were pretty amazing art pieces. And isn't that what Voltage is all about? Also, can't complain about seeing the male models again . . . Oh, and there were some well chosen accessories by Ferociter and eyewear by OGI Eyewear.
Final band up was Ruby Isle. We could live without that. Their wardrobe by Anthem Heart was slightly better, but it was hard to tell.
The next designer was Pafoua Thoa with PFT Couture. Her line was aptly titled 'watercolors', although it still did not do justice to her gorgeous collection of silk gowns and obi belts. Everything was impressive - the colors, the draping, the fit, the finishing touches. It held together so well, and every new look made us melt. Hers should have been the finale. More of Christopher Straub's handbags were featured along with fabulous accessories by Ruby3.
Finally, Emma Berg ended the evening. I think we decided that it must have looked great on paper, which is why it was picked as the last line. It was not quite wearable, but it hadn't gotten into the 'artsy' camp either, to make it OK. The organza details did not seem completely thought through. Specifically the yellow dress with the scrunched up organza boobs. The rest of the fabrics also seemed poorly chosen. The bags by Christopher Straub were excellent though, and the accessories by Rox Minneapolis pretty fun too!
All in all, it was a pretty fun evening! We saw some creative designs, great friends and fun entertainment :)
