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.