MODEL CASTING: Crystal Couture is Casting for Models

Capitol Fashionista Outing: Crystal Couture 2010

I attended Crystal Couture 2010 before the blizzard that never ended. I had a ball (partly because I was out with the Polished Image crew). The venue was amazing. Held at Lowes Enterprises in Crystal City, the event included a rotation of amazing local vendors selling their wares each night, at least five runway shows per night, painted models, tats, a t-shirt and a jeans design competitions, and much more. Pulled together by beautiful and very busy Angie Fox (shown above). Angie and her team of five work tiredlessly to pull Crystal Couture together. In its second year, this year's theme was Jungle, Jeans, Tats and Tees (Tease). The theme was carried through the variety of designers who participated in the daily runway shows to ensure that the event was accessible, fun, and funky. The event is designed to bring attention to Crystal City and to spotlight local designers.

Planning for the event started right after last year's event. Event planning starts with finding the perfect place. Fox was able to get the entire Lowes space for the event. Next, planning moves to obtaining vendors. It was so successful last year, that there was a waiting list this year for boutiques and designers who wanted booth space. That is always of good sign of a successful event. Next, Fox and her team tackle the runway shows and determining which designers will show their collections, as well as the model search. It is a lot of work. But Fox totally loves what she does. She wouldn't want to do anything else.

Planning for next year's event is underway. Stay tuned later in the year for information on Crystal Couture 2011.

Painted Models



Maggie Francois of the GWFCC and the talented members of the West Potomac Academy Fashion Design Department and its Project Stitch Program




The Capitol Fashionista with the Polished Image crew



Belfigura Swimwear
One of my favorite designers of the night was Belfigura. Belfigura creates swimwear for breast cancer survivors. This amazing design group gives breast cancer survivors a chance to be sexy and maintain dignity. I love fashion with a purpose.

DMV Fashionista Event: Crystal Couture Week

Crystal City is poised to join the ranks of top fashion destinations along with Milan, Paris and New York City. For one week in February, Crystal City will be the center of fun and fashion during the second annual Crystal Couture. Building on the success of last year’s similar event, The Crystal City Business Improvement District will turn available retail space into an exotic runway, boutique and night club – featuring trunk shows, live theater, DJs, specialty drinks, food, comedians, dancing and more.

Dubbed “Jungle, Jeans, Tats and Tees,” (a.k.a. festive animal/island prints, denim, body art and t-shirts), the event is designed to bring great retail and runway straight into the hands of attendees - whether seasoned fashionista or eager newbie.

The creativity does not end on the runway – fashion designers of all skill levels may submit proposals for cutstom T-shirt and/or jean designs. All submissions will be presented on the Crystal City BID Web site and through digital projection at the event. Audience members will vote on a winner – on Tuesday night, voting for the T-shirt design will take place and on Wednesday, voting for the jean design will occur. Prizes will be awarded.

Local non-profit groups will also be on site to collect donations of new or gently used clothing and footwear. Go Red for Women will also have a presence at the event.

Move over New York City, here comes Crystal City!

What: Crystal Couture – a week of fabulous fashion, fun and festivities, runway shows, local DJs, body painting, dancing, open bar, free snacks, free makeovers from makeup artists and hair stylists, prizes for best themed and more. T-shirt and Jeans Design Competition. Entry form and more information can be found here

Who: Bianca Richardson, finalist on America’s Next Top Model and dozens of other local models and fashionistas.

LaNorma, Boutique Mix, Stella & Dot, The Jeans Whisperer, Ibhana Creations, Poulet, Brand of the Free, Bernos, Holland Cox, Aidah Collection, Thembe Fashions, JZ Bags, CG Originals Jewelry and ADMK Jewelry

Where: A storefront will be turned into a fashion hotspot at 23rd Street and S. Crystal Drive (across from Jaleo); Arlington, VA

When: February 1 – 6, 2010, 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. every night

Tickets: No ticket is necessary - the event is free and open to the public