2nd Annual FGI Seattle Designer Showcase
I make a point, especially since I’m an independent graphic designer pursuing work in the fashion industry, to attend events where I can get some face time with designers, models, photographers, and other industry professionals as much as possible. Last night was no different. After a long (and dreary, thanks to the nasty weather) day at work, I treated myself to a delicious (and filling) dinner at Olive Garden before making an appearance at the 2nd Annual FGI Seattle Design Showcase.
I added this event to my calendar weeks ago and even though I was exhausted from working all day, I mustered up what energy I had left to network with local designers like Jeanette Svensk Li of Cute Like Mad, Lisa McDermott of Tonik and Rebekah Adams of Poppyseed. I also got to catch up with Joan Kelly and a former Seattle Fashion Week colleague. The event overall was very low-key, but some of the pieces blew my mind.
One, in particular, was a leather jacket designed from the Cute Like Mad collection (which you’ll be able to see on the Fashion First Seattle runway so don’t forget to get your tickets today!). I’m putting that one on my wish list.
The latest collection by FELLER also stood out for me because I was just thinking to myself how I need a good raincoat in my wardrobe (since my umbrella is looking to retire).
Another piece that caught my eye was a fabulous color-block gray and black dress by Victoria Postolit. I have a habit of being drawn towards more neutral shades, especially since I work in a somewhat corporate setting so I’ll have to look into purchasing one (or two).
The last designer I spoke to was Rebekah Adams of Poppyseed. The Zipper Dress caught my eye because of its unique design. The dress is made for women of all body types because of its adjustable zippers. How genius is that?!
It’s so amazing to live in a city with such talented and creative local designers who pay attention to their customers. I’m looking forward to building my business relationships (and hopefully expanding my wardrobe with some new quality pieces as well). In case you missed the event, here’s a list of all of the designers in attendance (courtesy of FGI Seattle):
With 20+ years of design experience in the industry (including 14 years at Nordstrom as a Design Director), the designer, Suk Chai, creates her bespoke ready-to-wear collection through the intrinsic wisdom of beauty and luxe comfort. While highlighting the refined fibers from Italy and manufacturing in New York’s Garment District, Chi’s modern and architectural silhouettes dress the women who seek a new, intellectual, alternative definition of luxury.
Made locally in Newcastle, WA - hand-woven and knit bamboo scarves, zippered shawls, and hand-dyed silk scarves using the Shape Resist/Shibori method of dying.
VARSHA is a contemporary womenswear brand inspired by the woman with strength and purpose; created for the woman who wants to take over the world. Made in the heart of LA’s garment district, we strive to create a fully functional wardrobe for our muse, who is the modern, confident, and professional woman.
Cute Like Mad is for the woman who has a rebellious edge, sometimes perfectly concealed. Someone who doesn’t mind standing out in a crowd, opens their own doors, laughs out loud, wears “too tall” heels and then kicks them off and dances barefoot. Ethically made clothes, sourcing, and manufacturing domestically, in the heart of New York City. #recycle
KINWOLFE is a collection of chic investment pieces that empower a new mother from maternity bump to breastfeeding, back to work, and beyond.
Timeless clothing for the modern woman. Elegant and effortlessly classy.
Clothing that fits regardless. Poppyseed engineers clothing that can change shape, giving you multiple ways to wear an item. Functional and empowering, our clothing will bring you from one stage of life to another.
At Metamorphic, we believe wholeheartedly that your gear should be as unique as you and your adventure. Upcycling to us means an entirely different thing. The tarpaulin, the ropes, the sails, the craft - every piece has had a life rich with experience. You are just setting out on your journey, but for our products, this is just a new chapter in theirs.
Debuting for Fall/Winter 2016, FELLER takes traditional waxed cotton outerwear and adds an unexpected twist with graphic prints and modern, feminine forms. FELLER proudly uses the highest quality rain and wind-resistant waxed cotton, imported from a company that has been manufacturing technical waxed cotton since 1880. FELLER outerwear offers versatility, functionality, and lasting quality for busy women seeking a contemporary look and flattering fit.
We are a women’s cycling apparel company specializing in fits that flatter every body and functionality. Tonik is passionate about encouraging women to get out and ride! Look good + feel good = more rides!
FGI Seattle
The Fashion Group International is a global, non-profit, professional organization with 5000 members in the fashion industry including apparel, accessories, beauty, and home. The FGI mission is to be the pre-eminent authority on the business of fashion and design and to help its members become more effective in their careers. To do this, FGI provides insights on major trends in person, online and in print; access to business professionals and a gateway to the influence fashion plays in the marketplace.
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