With Carnival fast approaching, it’s time to dress up and costume with wild abandon. Whether you’re looking for a couture ball gown or a sparkly leotard to wear with your marching attire, you can find a local maker to bring your vision to life. But outside of Mardi Gras, many of these same creators work year-round as traditional fashion designers. This Thursday, New Orleans Independent Fashion will hold its first fashion show since 2019. The event will highlight 12 independent local designers in a full fashion show.
Melissa Clark of EKS, the sassy lingerie brand, is this year’s event organizer. Clark says, “The show aims to bring the community together in support of fashion, art and diversity.” She adds: “The Peter and Paul Hotel have kindly allowed us to use their space for community events and students and volunteers from Paris Parker are helping with hair and make-up.”
She even got casting help from local agencies like FT 45 and Chic Nouvelle, along with set and lighting design from Omega Lighting and Kaz Mir. Clark says, “We really want this event to showcase the amazing fashion talent right here in New Orleans, outside of the typical Mardi Gras flair, although we love that, too.”
Part of the reason for putting this exhibition together is that it is incredibly expensive for designers to own an independent boutique. “This exhibition gives people the opportunity to see our garments in person and potentially develop our direct-to-consumer creations.
Another local designer, Vanshawn Branch, will be showing his menswear label, Kayie, at the show. Branch says, “I was drawn to this forum specifically because of its collective focus on human rights and social justice.” Vanshawn is the artist in residence at Salon on Canal Place and recently presented his work at Luna Fete. She plans to soon offer sewing classes for the next generation of creators out there as well.
To support Vanshawn and other talented designers at this Thursday’s show, you can purchase tickets right here!
Event information:
When: Thursday, January 12, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM CST
Where: Hotel Peter and Paul, 2317 Burgundy St.
WHO: New Orleans independent fashion
Including: Kayie by Vanshawn Branch, Altar New Orleans + Second Line Jewels, Howlpop, Paige Mcrae, Corinne Margaret Fiber, Xo Boyfriend, Saint Michele, 3MINC, EKS, Birdies KC + Fanum Fauna, Ivana Louvar, House of Calamity
Shopping events and special offers:
11.-12. January – Unreserved Auction online at Neal Auction
January – Audubon Dermatology is offering 20% off Radiesse when used on the body
Ongoing – Hemline Semi-Annual Sale – Up to 75% off selected items (limited time)
Ongoing – Joseph’s Semi-Annual Sale (limited time)