April 16, 2018 – When we think of fashion, sustainability isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind. Common Threads presented the Recycled Runway Show on April 10th which aimed to shift that notion. The plot is genius: young designers from grades 6 to 12 make and compete their original, unique garments from completely recycled materials. Held at the Boulder Theater, this event was sure to be a hit. I was astounded at the talent, drive, and individuality these young innovators held. Not to mention that proceeds from the night went towards Blue Sky Bridge – a prevention and intervention association in the fight against child abuse.  Here are my top 5 looks from the evening:

This first look was incredibly intricate and the designer must’ve been meticulous when crafting this. Bryn Leith-Matison, only in 6th grade, utilized a number of distinct materials to construct her outfit. By incorporating wine wraps, tennis balls, fruit roll-up strings, and mesh netting, this young lady really challenged herself to create something that was tough yet inspiring. Tennis balls, not only difficult to work with but bold in color selection, were the center piece of this look. She hand-sewed each individual ball … Read more!

March 29, 2018 – The opening night of Denver Fashion Week was completely unconventional, pushing the limits of fashion and social standards as we know them. 303 Magazine put on yet another fascinating evening of fashion. Held at Wings Over the Rockies, this show featuring all local designers and nontraditional models sure didn’t disappoint. Fashion is all about making a statement and crossing boarders and that’s exactly what the designers on Thursday, March 22nd, did.

Topping Designs started the show out with an all inclusive gender line. These models were confident and they were given a grand platform to show it. Featuring almost all red and black outfits, the dark mystique of these designs held a lot of weight. I also loved the more contemporary pieces that were showcased – trousers, blouses, and midi dresses. I admired Topping Designs’ way of making everyone apart of their line.

Tyne Hall brought out models of all heights to rock their trendy designs. I was absolutely living for this black asymmetrical pleather lined skirt and cropped top combo. I want to first say that this model looked beyond stunning in this outfit. The fitted band of the skirt cinched the waist in … Read more!

March 26, 2018 – Who knew that paper could be cut, stapled, and put back together to make whole dresses and outfits? Friday, March 23rd, marked a day Denver fashion will never forget. The 14th annual ONE Paper Fashion Show challenged all preconceived notions that clothing has to be made out of materials like cotton with a thread and needle. From participants like various design students to local artists, partial proceeds from this event benefit the Downtown Aurora Visual Arts program. This organization helps provide after-school art programs for at-risk youth. Spicers Paper, along with other paper mills, donate and support these designers in their creative passions. Seemingly, fashion for a good cause can’t get any better, but when unconventional, paper outfits are apart of it, it can. Here are some of my favorite looks:

This dress was full of texture and 3-D elements that made it come to life in the most electrifying way. Designed by Unsung Wolves, this dress emulated my multiple armed sea friends and I felt like I was watching Ursula, from The Little Mermaid, come to life. The layering and depth was intricate and the flow of the hanging pieces followed the model like a … Read more!