Local Looks
Five years ago, the notion of a Kansas City Fashion Week may have seemed like a highfalutin coastal affectation. But now, Carman Stalker and others believe that this city — with its stylish boutiques and more globally oriented overall sensibility — is ready for its own fashion week, albeit a four-day one.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. today, a costume design seminar kicks off Fashion Week. At 7 p.m., a fashion show follows, with pieces by Tomboy, Encore Too and Hemline, among others. Wednesday offers a schmooze session for students, artists, buyers and retailers from 6 to
8 p.m.; a runway showcase for independent and emerging designers from 8 to 9 p.m.; and a market with wares from A Shade Crazy, MIM Designs, Sikenomics Clothing, and Sophie and Gwendalynn. Thursday night offers another independent show and market. And the whole shebang goes out in a flurry of sashays with a closing show Friday night at 8.
Stalker says she used the New York and Los Angeles weeks as references but tried to tailor the events to KC. The count of arachnid-limbed models and celebrity sightings might not be Parisian-caliber this year, but Stalker intends to make the week an annual happening. KC, a fashion hub? That may be premature, but in the meantime, enjoy shows where you don’t need to be a confidante of Karl Lagerfeld to sit front and center. All events take place at the Foundation Room (1221 Union Avenue, 816-283-8990). See kc.wearhaus.org for more information.
Sept. 25-28, 2007
