"Thirteen cities and counting" would be a great catch phrase for the ever growing series of eat.shop.guides. Created by Portland based Kaie Wellman, the series has mixed the world of art and city guides to produce something very special. With a small crew, this creator, photographer and author continues to create semiannual quick reads on each city's distinctive fashion and food scene.

I tracked down the traveler-extraordinaire to get more information on her thoughts on Austin's scene.

Q: When did you pull together the first eat.shop.austin?

In November 2005 the first edition of eat.shop.austin was published. I'm currently in production on the second edition, which will be released in late October of this year.

Q: Why did you choose to cover Austin?

When it dawned on me that I was going to start doing the eat.shop guides for a living, I made my fantasy list of cities to do, and Austin was on the top of the list. Partially because Austin is very Portland-like, with its raging creative types, but mainly because this is a big city that thinks more like a town - and I love that.

Q: What makes Austin different from the other dynamic cities you have covered?

Austin really is like no other place I know, with its mix of politicians, students, academics, techies, musicians, creatives. It's a serious mélange and it works because everyone seems to be glued together with a super-glue form of queso.

Q: Would you go out on a limb and mention your favorite hangouts in Austin - what you do, what you eat, what you miss?

I would fly here just to go to Uchi. The moment I leave Austin, I miss having all my food covered in jalapeños and drinking Big Red. I think it's spectacular Austin has an organic farm (Boggy Creek Farm) smack dab central in its urban core. By George is one of the best women's clothing stores in the U.S. - Katy and Matthew (Culmo) are retail gods.

Q: Do you notice anything completely signature to Austin's style?

I think Austinites are individualists - so you'll see a mix. There are girly girls wearing pretty cotton candy-colored sundress and wedges, and then girls kickin' around in shorts and little flats and a great vintage top. As for Austin boys, oh my. There's nothing like the musician type wearing the pearl-button shirt and cords.

Q: Where can Austinites pick up a copy?

BookPeople, of course. By George often carries the Austin guide, and some of the other eat.shop cities. Therapy. Big Red Sun - and in October when the new edition comes out, you'll see it at many of the stores featured! And also at www.eatshopguides.com

Q: Future plans outside of the eat.shop guides?

To lose the 10 pounds that I've put on since I started doing these guides. And then put the weight back on as I continue to do more guides. It's a vicious circle.

http://www.eatshopguides.com

Austin's Cat Swanson is loving marriage, thriving in New York and working as the Design Director at Rachel Roy.

Learn more about the perks of going solo, the importance of gaining international experience, the ease of living in New York and the excitement of leading a design team from this 2003 UT Alumni.

Enjoy the question and answer session.

Q: What inspired you to start your own collection in 2003?

After designing under Arkadius in London, I had expressed an interest in launching my own collection and within one month, I was offered, by the president of a company called Fashion Music, an opportunity to participate alongside some of the worlds leading designers in a fashion show and auction to aid the prince's trust at Sotheby's. The opportunity sort of fell in my lap and because it was the chance of a lifetime, I ran with it and rode the momentum following the show with the launch of my own collection at New York Fashion Week the following September.

(The evolution of Cat Gendler's designs from left to right: 2004 spring/summer Tiger Lily, 2004 fall/winter Imminent Storm, 2005 spring/summer Quetzal, 2005 fall/winter Queen of Shades, 2006 Spring/Summer Silver Sea and 2007 Fall/Winter Rachel Roy)

Q: What are the perks of going solo?

The number one perk is complete and total creative freedom.

Q: What are the draw backs of going solo?

Having to balance running a business with being creative.

Q: What is the importance of living in New York?

Although I ran my business out of Austin Texas for the first two years, I ended up opening my own showroom in New York City. Not only is there more opportunity for a young designer in New York, but you just make yourself more accessible that way ... to the press and to buyers. I did enjoy the mystique of being from Texas, and so did many of the people that I worked with. I think the ideal would have been to eventually be able to have a showroom and sample room in NY but an office and design studio in Austin.

Q: What has been your favorite part of your relatively new position as Design Director within Rachel Roy?

Working with an amazing team! Rachel is the epitome of elegance. Its wonderful to head up design for her and to have two amazing designers to work with on the team. There is an amazing energy at our workplace that I have never experienced elsewhere. Although my position requires tons of work, it doesn't feel like work because I love what I'm doing and the environment. Also, Rachel recently hired a president from Givenchy, Marianne Tesler, who is an amazing role model in terms of managing a fashion business. So every day, I have the opportunity to push myself creatively and to grow.

Q: What's in the works?

We just wrapped up our Holiday Capsule Collection and will be closing our Resort Collection soon. Then it's on to the big Spring/Summer Collection and Fashion Week. In October, Rachel Roy will be opening a shop in what used to be the Plaza Hotel, right on Central Park, which is exciting! Also, my husband, Tomer, is relaunching his made in Italy Menswear Collection in June, which we are really looking forward to.

* Shop Rachel Roy online at net-a-porter.com or find a store near you at RachelRoy.com

.

Makeup artist Samantha Packham is a self-proclaimed product junkie so it's no wonder her makeup boutique Violet Rouge, located in south Austin, houses six individual stations of exclusive make-up lines, bath and body products and cosmetic bags. But what makes Violet Rouge the place to shop for new product is the knowledgeable one-on-one assistance staff give customers willing to learn. The quick walk through of each station is worth every minute guaranteeing you will find a new color, new application technique or a fun gift.

I asked Samantha to answer a few questions before she carefully walked me through a quick makeover.

What's the concept behind Violet Rouge?

The concept behind VR was twofold. I could not find the brands I was used to using in London and being a makeup artist, I thought I could create a shop that would offer the Austin woman something different, an alternative to the mall. After loads of research I found all these great lines that no one else in Austin carried -- it all just [fit] together.

What individual lines do you carry?

Cosmetics: 3 Custom Color, Face Atelier, Besame, Pixi, I nuovi, and Girlactik.

Bath & Body: Nature Girl, Lucky Chick, Cake, and Perfect Organics.

Skincare: Nature Girl and Task for Men

Other Lines: Cris Notti Bags, The Lip Scrub, Nature Force Blotting Papers, Whish Body Products and A design brushes.

What are some of your most popular sellers with the Austin girl?

Face Atelier foundation, The Lip Scrub, A Century in Red lip pallette from 3 Custom Color, Mandarin White Orchid Sugar Scrub from Lucky Chick, Naples Blush from Girlactik

Do you do any cool in-store events?

April 28th is bring in your make up bag day. Women can come in and I will help them go through their make up bag, decide what needs to be thrown away and what can be added to their bag to help create the look they want.

May 12th I am doing Mommy Make-overs and Margaritas. Bring your mother in, or yourself and I will do their make up and give them a margarita. Just a bit of fun to celebrate mothers. Call for an appointment. And all gifts will be 15 precent off till Mother's Day.

In June I am hosting a bridal event. It will be Afternoon Tea for the Bride to Be with one dress designer, one stationary shop, a caterer and a florist.

What was the first sign you knew you had a different level of appreciation for "products"?

I am not really certain. I have always loved make up. I remember being six [or] seven and playing with my mother's lipstick. I have always been a girlie girl. I just love products -- they can be cheap or expensive. I am just as tempted in Walgreen's as I am [at] a high end store.

Visit Violet Rouge online or in Austin at:

2110 S. Lamar

Austin TX 78704

(512)804-5444 view the map >

A chance meeting set University of Texas graduate, Analea De La Fuente on course to becoming a bridalwear designer. A Houston bridal client sought her design services at a UT Fashion show of her senior portfolio and the rest was history.

What made you decide to go into bridalwear design?

A wedding gown is the ultimate canvas. It allows me complete design freedom and flexibility to use the finest of fabrics while incorporating timeless design elements you don't see in everyday fashion. There's something wonderful about the ceremony behind a wedding gown -- I am intrigued by the layers and structure that are required to make a beautiful composition.

Who was your first client?

My first client was a bride from Houston that attended the UT Fashion show [of] my senior portfolio. She loved my designs and commissioned me to design her gown. She kept the original sketch, but I do have the other conceptual sketches [pictured here] that are centered on the same theme.

Does the sketching process start with an idea or a picture?

The sketching process starts with an idea. I begin by brainstorming through a series of conceptual drawings that address understanding the bride's style and transforming her into the bride she wants to be.

Where you do get your fabrics and embellishments?

My fabrics and embellishments come from all over the world. I look for the finest of materials, regardless of their origin, with the intent of providing my clients with the very best. Most of my silks, for example, come from Italy, whereas my laces usually come from England or France.

How long does the typical design process take from sketch to aisle?

The design process varies depending on the complexity of the project, but I can usually design and complete a gown in less than 6 months, with 4 months being the average. We start with a couple of fittings in a sample gown called a muslin and work on perfecting the fit before we cut and sew the actual dress. This process helps us avoid altering the gown, which inevitably puts stress on the fabric. It takes a little more time but the finished product is well worth the effort.

What is the most difficult part of designing bridal gowns?

Each gown I design is a work of art that has taken hours and hours to create. Like any artist or sculptor, the thought of never seeing my creation again is sometimes hard to bear.

Do you help the typical bride conceptualize the shoes, makeup, jewelry and hair?

Absolutely. With each design comes a different inspiration to complete the ensemble. We have partnerships with established vendors so we can ensure the bride has a good experience.

What is your ultimate goal for your brand?

Within a few years we'd like to create a collection of gowns sold nationwide so every bride can have access to our dresses. It will be difficult for me not to be able to personally consult with each individual bride, but we already have some ideas on how to make a nationwide collection more personable.

The only way to reach that level of success is to continue to do what we do best: provide our clients with the most gorgeous gowns and superior service to match.

Analea De La Fuente, 4410 Burnet Rd. Suite, Austin, TX 78756 For immediate inquiries or to set an appointment call 512.944.3421 or

Matt Swinney, publisher of the exciting and fun to read quarterly magazine, 'Rare Austin,' has launched a new social network -- RareMeetAustin.com. This membership-based club gathers Austin's twenty- to thirtysomething crowd for a packed calendar of creative meet-and-greets all over the city. At the most recent event, The James Brown Tribute at The Peacock, an eastside lounge, provided the perfect backdrop to mix and mingle and chat with Matt.

(Matt is wearing a English Laundry shirt from Estilo and Yanuk Jeans from Hem Jeans.)

How long have you had the idea to create 'Rare Austin'?

This was probably late summer 2004. I had pretty much decided I wanted to do a lifestyle magazine for Austin and I saw what the competition was and tried to find a niche that I felt no one else was really going after. Also, I had several friends that are retailers, restaurant guys, etc. and they told me what they would want out of a new publication. Hence, Rare was born.

How long did it take to make 'Rare' a reality?

I sort of have a take-no-prisoners attitude, so from the concept of 'Rare' to actually having a media kit and selling [ads] for the first issue was only a few weeks. Once I had my head around it, I was ready to go. I started the business in October 2004, but the first issue didn't hit until May 2005. It took awhile to get enough advertisers to buy in and get a really great concept. To this day, I bet I can still name ALL of the original advertisers without looking at any notes or magazines. Those businesses were THAT important to me.

What is 'Rare''s overall mission?

We didn't sit down and create a Jerry Maguire-esque mission statement or anything. Honestly, we just want to create a really unique local publication that "feels" like Austin. I don't think anyone else really does that. We try to capture the essence of down-to-earth funky mixed with Davenport Village high-end. If you wander around Austin long enough, you'll realize that most people wear $200 jeans with a $10 vintage tee. Austinites are much less-concerned about price than people in most cities.

We wanted to show the city the BEST local businesses and have people realize that it's much cooler to go to Hem Jeans instead of Nordstrom. The AIBA quotes a statistic that says that of every $100 spent at a national chain, the total local economic impact is only $13. That same $100 spent at a local business generates $45. Also, from a demographic perspective, we wanted to create a magazine that reached 20somethings and 30somethings.

Why did you start RareMeetAustin.com?

It started because I don't understand MySpace at all. What's the fun in having a community that never meets in real life? Rare Meet is meant to do that. We want people to catch local events where they can hang with friends, meet business partners, find new vendors, seek out the love of their life. Whatever your interest is, you should be able to find it at a Rare Meet event (or 10). We want to establish "community" in a way that no one has done it locally. Plus, it's a great opportunity for us to help show off local businesses, artists, designers, photographers, musicians -- whatever. It's one thing to run advertising for a company; it's quite another to hold an event with 200 people at their physical location. I don't think any other magazine is looking out for its advertising base quite like that.

Do you consider you and your staff to be social connectors?

I don't know. I don't really think of myself that way. I'm just sort of a gregarious guy. I like people in general. I like knowing what makes other people tick and I LOVE entrepreneurs. I love anyone that is willing to really stick their neck out socially, financially, artistically, whatever and take whatever the city is going to throw back at them. I guess [wanting] to be around people like that and to learn from them sort of makes me a "social connector." But, it's not like any of us set out to do that. It just sort of happens naturally.

Describe your typical reader?

I think that's the beauty of the magazine. There isn't a "typical" reader. That's like saying "define Austin." You can't do it -- and if you can, then you're wrong and you don't get what this city is about. I think the "typical" reader is someone who's just as likely to buy a pair of $400 stilettos at Ven Shoe Salon ... with a deconstructed vintage denim skirt from Cream. That's what I love about our readership. Generally speaking, they're okay being out on a limb and they LOVE and I mean LOVE this city. They want to support local business and they're willing to say "I like this, but I don't like that." It would be much easier to go get a bunch of ad dollars from the super high-end, but a lot of Austin has already rejected that. They like the idea of the hodgepodge that is Rare and I like the hodgepodge that is our reader.

What do you consider to be Austin's single most important style influencer?

Without a doubt, music is the biggest style influencer. Deep down, every Austinite wants to be a rock star. Come on, admit it. You know you're scared to death of it, but you want up on that stage wearing sunglasses at night with a $200 haircut that looks like you just rolled out of bed, tats on both arms, and a nasty sneer. That's why you see goofy white dudes like me hanging out at The Mohawk having had a little too much to drink looking at the stage like those guys are gods. ... I've met a ton of musicians and they all put their pants on one leg at a time -- they just do it in a much cooler way. I like the idea of 2nd Street and The Domain and places like that, but it's not exactly Red River on a Friday night. I think that's where you'll find the true style that defines "Austin".

Anthony Nak's luxury line of fine jewelry has earned accolades from the CFDA (Council of Fashion Design and America), editors, designers and critics for their innovative pieces that many work hard to duplicate. I sat down with Anthony Camargo -- Co-Designer and Partner with Nak Armstrong -- to get the big international picture of Austin's prized jewel.

What inspired you to start a line of fine jewelry?

Nak and I came from two different disciplines as designers, mine being furniture and sculpture, Nak's being clothing. We wanted to design something that would incorporate both. Looking at what was available in the market we felt that we could create a luxury brand that could offer women a new take on jewelry and how it was purchased and worn.

What was your main reason for partnering with Nak Armstrong?

Nak and I partnered because we had the same aesthetic about design and we felt that our different backgrounds would be a good combination in pursuing our goals in developing a business and a luxury brand, we also are best friends and have remained each others champions over the years

Aside from each other, who were your biggest cheerleaders in the beginning?

We were very fortunate to be immediately welcomed and celebrated by the press and celebrities, as well as local clientele in Austin who were our patrons and to this day support what we do creatively.

Have you always had distinctive points of view on fashion and beauty?

I would really credit that to Nak as he was from the fashion industry in New York and had a true understanding of what it meant to have a distinctive point of view. He has made sure that we stay true to our brand.

That's right, you come from a furniture design and sculpture background. How big was the learning curve making the leap to jewelry design?

I was self taught. Well, I take that back I started in retail and was fortunate to have had an amazing visionary as my mentor, who took me under his wing and taught me the ins and outs of the retail business. That man was Fred Segal in Los Angeles. I spent many years under that roof and opened my first business there.

I eventually left but took the experience and applied it to my own creative ventures in many different cities San Francisco, Miami Beach and New York ...

What about Nak? Designing and selling jewelry is different from working with clothes.

Nak is a Plan 2 graduate from the Univeristy of Texas studying international business and Architecture. Upon graduating, he moved to New York and began his career in fashion working for a company that specialized in patterns for some of the biggest designers in the clothing industry, this is where he learned about draping and form, and eventually developed his own clothing line which he sold in some exclusive stores in New York.

Tell me about the moment you both took a deep breath and said "MAN," during the last six years?

Winning the CFDA award was our biggest validation. To become a part of this elite group of designers has been such a rewarding experience; to be recognized by the top designers, editors, retailers and to have peers. Unlike most jewelry designers who really only break ground in the jewelry industry, we were welcomed and received into the fashion industry and recognized as ones that actually changed the course of the business by developing a technique that had never been done before.

[It also feels good to have] spawned an entire genre of jewelry designers that implemented our philosophy into their own collections. They say that knock-offs are the biggest form of flattery. We agree that inspiring others to pursue their dreams is a blessing as long as they don't knock us off completely.

And one of the other things happened the other day: Madonna sent an autographed picture to Nak and I along with a lovely note thanking us for making something special for her. That was awesome. It was like Christmas day in the Anthony Nak office when that picture and note arrived.

How has your design philosophy grown in the past six years?

Our original design philosophy was to incorporate our backgrounds [and] create a line of jewelry that had movement, that made the wearer feel sexy, sophisticated and chic. We wanted to create something that did not look and feel like hardware. We never thought that it was sexy for a woman to wear something that looked like a door knob on her neck. We never wanted the wearer to feel like it was the jewelry that walked into the room.

The thing that has changed for us over the years is keeping up with a growing business; this forces us to be cognizant of what we need to do to maintain our brand image which includes making sure that our integrity is in place ... and ignoring the naysayer or the ones that want to see you fail. We recently went down the path of going after some unethical individuals in a legal context, which you have to do sometimes, but we realized -- and I remembered something that Fred Segal had taught me years ago -- that if you are paying attention to what others are doing than you are not paying attention to what you need to be doing.

Do you carry items for men?

Yes we have a men's collection, that we sell only through our flagship Anthony Nak store here in Austin and at the Fred Segal store in Santa Monica. We are [best] known for our women's collection therefore we want to make sure that we don't dilute our brand by going into too many arenas including men's jewelry, except on a very exclusive level.

Check out Anthony Nak's Signature, Specchio and Flora & Feather collections at their flagship store and other fine retailers in the US, London and Japan.

Anthony Nak

800 Brazos St

(512)454-7029 view the map >

www.anthonynak.com/

Austin's dynamic design duo, Suzie Rapp and Amy Posavek, first met while attending a Textile Design class at the University of Texas. After paying their individual dues, Suzie left an internship at Marc Jacobs in New York and Amy turned down a design position in LA.

Reuniting in Austin, Texas with one common goal, the two created Rapp and Posavek, a quality line of "lush-to-touch" handbags, wallets and belts that has caught the attention of fashion editors and celebrities.

Most recently seen on the pages of Lucky and Nylon magazines, and on the shoulders of such A-list American celebrities as Kate Hudson, Teri Hatcher and Cheryl Hines, the R&P style continues to cater to trend-centric style mavens.

Full of distinctive styles and void of flashy signature labeling or hardware, the R&P spring 2007 collection has something for fashionistas who prize their individuality.

Q: Why did you decide to go into business together?
We met in Textile Design class at [the University of Texas]. From then on, we studied together and scheduled all of our classes together. We always joked that we were going to start our own business together and when it actually happened we already knew that we would work well as a team, since we had been doing that with great results all through college.

Q: You have such a varied collection with such distinctive style, I love the Candace bag but would be more likely to wear the Micah bag - Do you have a specific type of girl that you design the collection around?
Our target customer is between 18 and 40. [She] is an independent, working woman who likes to travel and who embraces a fashion-forward philosophy when shopping for herself.

Q: Amy, when you go shopping with Suzie, what is the first thing she grabs?
Suzie's style is a downtown vintage feel so I would have to say anything vintage or unique -- something that not everybody has.

Q: Suzie, if you had to pull three things out of Amy's handbag what would they be?
Amy carries so much in her bag! I would have to say her Rapp and Posavek wallet, her make-up bag, and she always has a Burt's Bees chapstick.

Q: What are your favorite things to do in Austin?
Amy: My husband and I love to go to different places like Roy's and Flemming's and we enjoy great steak and wine. I definitely like the low-key lounges that play blues or jazz. My favorite boutiques in Austin are probably By George and Anthropologie. Favorite food: Anything Tex-Mex!!!

Suzie: Walking my dog Ollie around Town Lake, eating Tex-Mex, having drinks and attending art shows on the East Side, going to see bands and dancing downtown, shopping at Feathers and Factory People.

Q: Where can non-Austinites find your line?
Anthropologie, Factory People, Verve, Big Drop, Glo are a few stores stocking our pieces.

Q: What are the next steps for Rapp and Posavek?
We would love to do a shoe line one day.

Shop online at http://www.rappandposavek.com.

Austin's Kendra Scott began her company with only five hundred dollars and a tea box. Here, This risk-taking entrepreneur explains the steps she took to forge her way into over 450 specialty stores throughout the world.

(Kendra Scott is standing infront of her inspiration board wearing Kendra Scott Tear Drop Earrings available online at Bloomingdale's.)

What appears to be an overnight success is actually the result of a passionate hard worker who has paid her dues. Before Kendra Scott Design, Ms. Scott ran a boutique she owned for five years. Prior to opening her boutique, she spent three years working in advertising.

"I always knew I had a passion for fashion," Scott says, adding. "I knew I couldn't sew but could make jewelry."

At the beginning, "I would go door-to-door to Austin boutiques with this little tea box filled with a small collection of jewelry. The Austin boutique owners were great. They embraced me and bought my things," Scott says, but business really picked up when her designs caught the attention of a Dallas sales rep. "She called and said, 'Listen. You're taking away my business; I want to rep your line,'" Scott remembers. "I made a trip to Dallas the next day and she picked up the line... It was just gang busters from there."

Shortly after this career coup, Scott was selected to attend the prestigious Coterie. "It was an honor," Scott recounts with pride. Being at the Coterie gave the designer an audience with the big buyers. "[With] the first collection, we landed our first big account which was Nordstrom," she says.

Scott's trajectory of success continues to gain momentum. Last year, Oscar de la Renta commissioned Scott to complement his clothing for the Spring 2006 couture fashion show with her unique pieces. "It was a highlight. I had to stop myself and think wow," Scott says. This year, she plans to launch an online shop and start a new line of fine jewelry.

Attributing her success to tuning out "dream stealers" and working with "creative and dynamic people," Scott says the most rewarding part of owning Kendra Scott Design is the opportunity to indulge her passion. She gushes, "I wake up every morning excited to go to work."

Preview Kendra Scott's fine jewelry at Eliza Page in August 2007.

Purchase Kendra Scott jewelry at the following retailers:

Online: Shoptwig.com laylagrace.comcitizenrose.com

National Retailers: Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Henri Bendel

Austin: A Touch of Sass, Adelante, Eliza Page, Fetish, Garden Room, Leisa Allen, Pique, Salon Bloom and Boutique, Scarbroughs

Fresh off the plane from New York, Robert Verdi made his first trip to Austin, Texas for the Fashion Presentation sponsored by Cadillac. The event highlighting the Grand Opening of the Domain previewed both women's and men's fashions from Lacoste, Lilly Pulitzer, Tommy Bahama, Luxe Apothetique, Metropark, Calypso Christiane Celle and Diesel.

Excited to take a break from his most recent pet project -- the re-design of his office -- Robert entertained a full house of eager Austinites.

"My office houses eight employees who are all exact opposites to me. They are all very cool, calm, collected and super smart," Robert explained -- in sharp contrast to his outspoken and in-your-face personality. But Robert didn't get to where he is being shy. Within the first five minutes of speaking with him it is obvious his self-assured personality has earned him the admiration of his peers, clients and fans.

Having worked for the best in the biz as a style consultant interviewing Tommy Hilfger, Cynthia Rowley, Ivana Trump, David Bowie, Robert continues to dress Eva Longoria, Kathy Griffin, Saturday Night Live's Finesse Mitchell and Hugh Jackman for his events. He has also appeared as an interior design and fashion expert on The View, Regis & Kelly, and The Today Show, as well as on cable's CNN Headline News and VH1.

With such a stellar resume to his credit, Robert continues to build his brand by carefully selecting the projects he'll take on. "At this stage, I know right away if the opportunity is a good fit. In my industry you may be known more for what you turn down then what you actually do," he says.

This said, Robert knows his success is dependent on taking the projects he does accept to a higher level. "I'm never complacent, [I'm] always challenging myself."

SPEAKING OF CHALLENGING...

Confused by the onslaught of "spring must-haves?" Robert says, "It is all about the sunglasses, handbags and exciting accessories... coupled with neutral clothing." So pair those jeans and khakis, and that crisp shirt or tee with funky accessories and flirty but comfy footwear.

Hot New Austin Looks Straight from the Runway.

Ron King, the owner and head stylist of Bo Salon, shares his experiences taken from New York's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week with styleshaker.com. His return promises to bring the latest looks to Austinites faster then ever before.

Enjoy a few tips from one of Austin's top experts:

Why did you go to New York's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week? I was invited by Ted Gibson to partake in Fashion Week and a few editorial shoots.

What are the upcoming hair trends for the spring? The bob, the crop top and frosty brown colors.

What are a few of the top makeup trends for the spring? Natural and blushed lips, flushed cheeks, liquid Liner and violet in eye makeup.

What was the biggest lesson you learned during Fashion Week? You must be willing to work hard. People ARE NORMAL. You need to be aware of weight control and remember to eat. And you must be available.

What are New Yorkers wearing? Walking the streets of New York to get from point A to point B, I noticed New Yorkers are wearing cuff bracelets (silver), and designer jeans (Diesel especially) and Uggs because its too cold for much else!

What did you learn? I gained more knowledge of the commercial aspect of hair and makeup, and I enjoyed this opportunity to continue my education... [I also got the] reconfirmation that service is paramount in this industry, and that there are no short hours. You must have a lot of patience.

What else did you do in New York? While in New York, I also worked with Ted Gibson on a few editorial shoots [for] Glamour, Elle and Lancome.

What is your next in-salon event? The Beauty Blowout is the next event. I will instruct and have three other assistants on hand. It will be Monday, March 12th from 10am-12pm. The cost is $200. Participants need to bring all products they use on their vanity-brushes, and tools. Also, they should have their hair styled before they come so they can do "before/after" shots.

The workshop be can broken down into five stages:

1. shampoo/conditioner
2. styling tools (gels, mousses, etc)
3. what works and doesn't work for the attendees
4. techniques for proper blowout
5. hands-on training

Mr.King has twenty years of experience and extensive training within the Beauty and Hair industry. He specializes in special event up-sweeps and complete makeovers.

Bo Salon, 2004 S Congress Ave Austin, TX 78704 512.448.0060 Map >

Give me an "S"

As one of Sugarluxe's perkiest cheerleaders, innovative, articulate, creative and inspirational are just a few words to describe illustrator, artist and designer Chandra Michaels. I will let her explain the rest...

"The S for Sugarluxe... is emblematic of the commonalities connecting all my customers. They are undoubtedly women who are Secure and Self-Assured and just as Smart, Strong, and Sexy as they are Supportive and Sweet. The secret is to strike the right balance between these seemingly disparate characteristics."

What is your background?
I'm a UT Graduate and my education is actually in Psychology, with an emphasis on learning and cognition. I've always been fascinated by the factors that influence human performance and motivation. And for me, I'm pretty sure that the motivation behind what I do now with my life really began when I was just seven years old.

That's when I started training as a competitive gymnast. I think the discipline required and the sacrifices made then as a young athlete developed the drive in me that seems to reveal itself in everything I do.
I also think it helped me to uncover my need to create. I had to escape the pressure of such a demanding sport and drawing was (and still is) a good outlet for me.

How did Sugarluxe begin? The Sugarluxe Brand was designed first and foremost as a crazy, idealistic mission to minimize this destructive "Mean Girls" mentality so rampant today. But you can't just wish for that kind of sweeping social change, I think if you want something bad enough, you have to be willing to get in and risk everything to make it happen.

Creating artwork and products with which people could personally connect is simply a way I figured out that I might somehow be able to do that.

So, the identity of Sugarluxe was created long before I actually had anything to sell.

Can we see your first illustration?

Oh my gosh - I knew I might be asked this someday...

If you want to see my VERY first drawings, you would have to check with my mom. She is so wonderful for treating everything I ever made like it was a masterpiece. So, I'm certain she has them somewhere.

But this is my first full-on digital illustration. I have never had a computer class or any instruction, whatsoever...so, when I went from sketching on paper to drawing on the computer, it was really awful and awkward. I just didn't know how to make the most of this particular medium. This image took me almost two weeks to complete, now I'm lucky if I have a whole day to create a new illustration. Plus, stylistically, it's totally different from what I wanted to create for Sugarluxe.

What is your latest project? I just returned from San Francisco. I was asked to paint a Sugarluxe Room for the Hotel Des Arts, which is one of the most talked about boutique hotels in the nation. I had two weeks to complete the entire space and it was definitely a challenge to apply my style of artwork to their highly textured walls. But what an amazing experience!

The hotel features the work of some of the most prominent pop artists alive today. So, it was an incredible honor to get to do this project. John Doffing is this unbelievably cool entrepreneur and curator who coordinated my work with the hotel. He is the founder of START Mobile and the START Soma Gallery. He is a well-respected visionary and regarded as one of the top tastemakers in the world of emerging art. We have collaborated on a couple of other projects and I feel so fortunate to have someone of his caliber believe in me and my work so much.

Here are pictures that document my time painting the Sugarluxe Room . And for those who would like to know how you can book the Sugarluxe Room (504), you can call the Hotel Des Arts or go online.

Shop Sugarluxe located within The Little Pink House at 1117 W. Fifth St. Austin TX 78703 Map >

or online.

Continue reading "Sugarluxe - Give me an "S""

Linda ASAF's dual role in shaping Austin style has her "spinning plates" and loving every minute of it.

After four incredible years, most know Linda as the founder and dress designer for Linda ASAF , but few also know her as the Retail Recruiter for the Austin Downtown Alliance.

This well kept secret ranks her among the most prominent Austin style influencers. I caught up with Linda following a recruitment trip for ADA and asked her a few questions.

The Austin Downtown Alliance

What is your role within the Austin Downtown Alliance?
I'm responsible for attracting quality retailers to Downtown Austin. It's a fun challenge as I have met so many cool, talented retailers from nationals to bohemian locals.

What part does the Austin Downtown Alliance in play Austin's downtown development?
The DAA is a non-profit agency funded by downtown property owners. We are stewards of all things downtown including promoting it as a destination, supporting development projects, lobbying city council, keeping it clean, safe and more. I guess you could say that everything we do is tied to developing downtown Austin and bringing it to its full potential.

How do you find the time to do both the Austin Downtown Alliance and Linda ASAF designs?
It's definitely a challenge but I love both! I'm good at 'spinning plates' which helps a lot and there are many synergies between the two. It forces me to be very efficient with my time. At the end of the day, both are very satisfying for me professionally.

The Linda ASAF Collection

When and why did you start your company and collection?
In 2002, I had been riding the dot.com rollercoaster and decided to stop the insanity, 'face the truth' and follow my passion. Having my own fashion company allows me to leverage my business and design skills at the same time which makes me feel like a kid in a candy store. It's very satisfying.

How many exclusive pieces are one of a kind for limited clientele?
As a rule, I don't make a lot of the same design so my customers don't see themselves 'coming and going' around town. Many pieces are one-of-a-kind and I also do original custom designs for clients.

Where can we find Linda ASAF in Austin?
At my showroom located at 1117 West 5th Street by Whole Foods.

What is the time frame and cost involved in a custom dress for lets say maid of honor or the bride?
A custom dress takes a minimum of 2 months. For a wedding gown, as an example, this includes a concepting session with the bride, time to source raw materials, 1-2 fittings with a 'mockup' of the design and 1-2 fittings after the gown has been made.

Where did you grow up?
Corpus Christi, TX. I attended Catholic schools and learned to sew from the Sisters of Incarnate Word!

Did you have an early interest in design and fashion?
Yes, I remember even in 2nd grade how much I enjoyed drawing and designing things. Art was my favorite class! Then when I learned how to sew, it was like a huge bonus - being able to create something beautiful AND wear it!

Favorite designers, places, stores, people, things that were formative to your current creative vision?
I am inspired by so many things around me everyday. I once had fabric custom-made that was inspired by a sunset over the lake. Other sources include beautiful textiles, a fashionable woman at a party, movies, celebrities, menswear, etc.

What is your vision for your collection?
My vision is to create really pretty, feminine, classic yet sexy designs that accentuate a women's best aspects. I steer clear of overly trendy things or fads as I want my clothes to be good buys that my customers can wear for more than one season. I love to incorporate beautiful european couture fabrics as well to make the designs even more special.

What cities inspire you?
Paris and NYC! I also love the casual individual style of Austinites especially women who put together unexpected combinations

Favorite Stores (new find):
Apple Store in SoHo. It has a theater inside and the salespeople feel like rock stars in their own right. I love how they take pride in their work.

Any unique non-fashion stores that you love?
Kuhl-Linscomb in Houston. It's a totally unique concept that is actually a series of homes plus a large retail building. Everything in their series of shops is really cool, interesting and tastefully designed. They sell gifts, home furnishings, furniture, and even luxury european kitchens.

Anything new on the horizon for you?
I'll be doing the evening gowns for the Austin Music Awards this year! This will be so much fun. I'm also doing a Fall Fashion show in August at the newly redeveloped Austin Music Hall to benefit Heart House.

I know, I know, I know -- You are a girl of substance and firmly believe superficial identifiers should never supercede the company you keep, convictions you hold, or the life strides you make.

Wisen up, Polly Anna. The world thrives on common denominators. Truth be told -- a few include the coffee shops you frequent, the boutiques you love, the play lists you rock, and the Austin glossies you read.

So, choose wisely. We wouldn't want the simple minded to confuse you as ....

Ms. Southern Socialite...
Brilliant is the only Austin glossy delivering a triple hit. Offering the complete line up of Texas Style & Substance for socialite within Austin, San Antonio and Dallas. The monthly publication holds a solid Luxury and Style influence with a strong Travel and Leisure section, The Brilliant crew always has the inside to all the fabulous events in Austin and beyond.

Ms. Impressionable...
Austin Magazine is a newcomer to the Austin Lifestyle glossy scene. The bi-monthly magazine contains features including Celebration, Personality, Selections. This publication is said to focus on those people and destinations influencing Austin Style. It screams of Tribeza under tones. Rightfully so, it's a Tribeza publication. Duplicating efforts in the Austin market - I'm confused.

Regardless, The Tribeza crew does an amazing job pulling together another niche lifestyle glossy.

Ms. Popular...
Tribeza is filled with "topics - from the arts to design, dining and style." The monthly publication highlights prominent Austinites and has a strong see and be seen slant. Honestly, anyone and everyone featured always seem a bit too good to be true.

Tribeza's featured articles include Community (event recaps and exposed sections highlighting Austinites), Style & Design (filled with featured articles) and Cuisine (capturing the best places to fine dining).

Ms. "Silver" Austin ...
Glossy, an Austin American Statesman publication, will expand to a nine month publication soon enough.

Limited in distribution it's a true secret. Similar to Dallas's Paper City and F!D Luxe, Glossy is high on style. Capturing the ole Austin socialites and families beyond the typical world of fundraising events.

Ms. On The Go...
Austin Monthly seems to be everywhere you are.

It's a well-circulated monthly publication with a strong readership base; Austin Monthly maybe the best page to page read of the lot. It offers the big picture of talk, scene, style, events and dining within Austin.

Ms. Outgoing...
Rare captures the true youth college feel of Austin. The monthly publication is light on style and high on the fun factor.

The Rare crew does a great job at profiling the true-blue and down-to-earth Austinite.

Ms. Shopalcoholic...
Jewell is full of shopping picks. Lighter on advertisements and editorial, this quarterly publication is a great quick read for those who love to shop without the fluff.

(Img sources: Thank you to each publication for allowing stylelist.com and styleshaker.com to post their front covers)

Rochelle Rae, is a sought after make-up artist, who shows no signs of slowing down.

This natural beauty and savvy business woman has built a huge following. Her impressive list of clientele and Rae Cosmetics firmly secures her rank among those in the running to be the next Bobby Brown.



Q: What type of formal training and how many years of experience have you earned as an makeup artist?

I Studied Fine Arts at the University of Missouri - Kansas City and Makeup at the Makeup Designory (MUD) - Los
Angeles. I have been a professional makeup artist for 12 years.

Q: Who has been your favorite person you have had in your studio?

It was very exciting to do makeup for Lizzy Jagger (Mick's daughter) and Erin O'Connor (British Supermodel) I did their makeup for a Zack Posen Runway Show.

But one of my favorites is Liz Carpenter. She is so smart, interesting, and funny.



(Line n' Shine - High-shine dynamic duo. Coordinating lip pencil and gloss all in one fun, convenient package. $25.00)

Q: When did you decide to start Rae Cosmetics?

I launched the makeup line in 2005 but started thinking about it years before. All the makeup I was finding on the market was heavy looking and even heavier feeling. I live in Austin and the lifestyle here is active and the weather is hot, humid climate. This called for a lighter, more natural approach to cosmetics. I started mixing products with moisturizers, sunscreens and anything to "lighten them up". I discovered lighter, oil free, natural products were not only healthier for skin but also looked better and lasted longer. After about two years of research and design, Rae Cosmetics was introduced in August 2005. It is a mineral makeup line created to take the heat, like the women who wear it.

Q: What is your most popular seller?

Climate Control is the signature of the line. It is a Multi-mineral tinted Foundation, Sunscreen and Anti-oxidant lotion all in one. SPF 20 guards against the sun, anti-oxidants Ginko Biloba, Ginseng and Vitamins A, C, and E protect against free radical damage and moisturize skin. The ultra-sheer formula is water resistant and pro-sports, perfect for a hot, humid climate and active lifestyle.

Q: Do you have any new make-up techniques to share?

To visually lift and brighten the eye, swipe a small line of concealer from the outside corner of the eye at an angle, up towards the outer edge of your eyebrow.

With a sponge blend very well. Blend down towards the cheekbone, removing most of the concealer. This will
clean up any eyeshadow that may have fallen down onto the face and visually lift the outside corner of the eye, for a brighter, more youthful look.

For under eye circles, it is very important to watch how much product you use. Less is more!!

(Concealer Hypoallergenic, Fragrance and Talc free. $16.00)

Place the concealer only where it is needed, stop and look at the actual area that is dark. Most of the time
concealer is not needed close to the lash line.

For dark circles, concealer is usually only needed in a half moon shape under the eye and in the corner, next to the tear duct. Avoid the area next to the lash line, to help prevent product from settling into fine lines and wrinkles. Even use a Q-tip dipped in moisturizer to remove excess concealer.

Schedule a consultation or buy Rae Cosmetics on online. Rae Studios, 830 W. 3rd St. #1136 Austin TX 512.320.8732.

Austin jewelry designer Andrea Moore combines natural gemstones, metal and artistry to create her one-of-a-kind Gypsy Born Designs. Her handcrafted jewelry has been described as vibrant and instinctual; every piece is made with an extraordinary attention to creativity and craftsmanship.

I found Andrea at Stitch Austin and couldn't wait to spread the word .


Q: What inspired you to create your collection?

A: As long as I can remember, I've been very visual. I am constantly exploring how adornment (in any form) can create interest and if successful, enhance the original, simplistic beauty of things. Whether the subject is a blank wall, empty vase, or simple dress, I believe adding interesting details, texture, color, and occasionally a little sparkle communicates a certain "joie de vivre". I still pinch myself that am able to satisfy this passion by creating jewelry that others choose to wear to express their own style.

Q: What inspires and influences your designs?

A: I am most inspired by designs that only Mother Nature could create: for example, the symmetry of a seedpod, the gnarls of a tree trunk, the patterned shimmer of a butterfly wing. While I adore these things, I am also attracted to luxurious fabrics, sparkling chandeliers ... a certain elegance in design. I am most happy when I am able to successfully marry these contrasting aesthetics into my jewelry... natural shells, rough lava rock, or sinewy leather in harmony with refined and glamorous elements of sparkling stones, fine gold wire, and shimmering chains.

Q: What are a few top picks on your play list?

A: Music is an important part of who I am and it usually creates the backdrop to my day. Most recently played in my studio would be: Calexico/Iron and Wine (In the Reins), The Black Keys (Thickfreakness), John Scofield (A Go-Go), Adrian Quesada (Ocote Soul Sounds), Stanton Moore (III), Led Zeppelin (How the West Was Won), Anders Osborne (Ash Wednesday Blues)

Q: When did you realize you had hit a sweet spot?

A: I guess that would be a few years ago when it dawned on me that I had fans and collectors outside of my friends and family. When I realized my pieces were being sought out, not just an impulse buy, I thought hmmm, maybe I've finally found my look, a recognizable design direction that people are responding to.

Q: Where can we find more Gypsy Borne Designs?

A: Gypsy Born Designs can currently be found in Austin at Eliza Page, Wildflower Organics and also at www.gypsyborndesigns.com