Austin Fashion Week
Strutting their stuff: A stylish start to a fashionable week
- Models on stage spotlighted the Spring 2012 Ready to Wear Ciarla Collection
- Olga Nino, Emily Purvis and Scott Thomas
- Light and fun dresses were a fashion choice for many
- Fashion and beauty industry were also out for the evening
- The fashionable event was a fun way to kick-off Austin Fashion Week
- Guys tried on jackets and button-down shirts from the racks at Estilo
It’s barely August, yet the party circuit is revving into high gear with the start of Austin Fashion Week. Beginning this week, a slew of fundraisers and soirees are slated at venues throughout Austin alongside the AFW’s signature events. On Wednesday, three ladies — each from different sectors of Austin style — kicked it all off with A Fashionable Fete at Estilo on 2nd Street.
Stephanie Coultress O’Neil, owner of Estilo, is no stranger to the social scene. Her chic shop is the go-to downtown spot to find thoughtfully-curated pieces for ladies and men. Owner of Ciarla Designs, Jessica Ciarla, is better known for her bridal wear but showed her prowess in ready-to-wear, evening and cocktail styles on models that graced the stage in store. Newest to the scene, Maria Orozova, a fixture in the marketing world with her company MOD Studio, recently launched her new lifestyle blog, FabistheNewBlack.com. The event also served as a coming out party of sorts for the site.
Guests perused the aisles, even trying on a few looks, to the edgy beats of DJ AZTEC. Seen browsing the stylish racks and sipping libations were Julie Sutton-McGurk of the 2nd Street District, along with Kyle Golden, William Jackson, Kate Stoker and Allen Beuershausen.
CultureMap and Estilo are teaming up this Saturday for another fashionable evening to celebrate Austin Fashion Week, featuring local jewelry designer Rene Guest.
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Austin Social Planner, led by Laura Villgran Johnson and Kevin Smothers provides recommendations and news regarding Austin's social scene.