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Independent Designers. Emerging Trends. Essentially we're the pencil toting, note-takers of fashion; memo pads in hand, we follow the independent runways and young designers as they show their collections. We scour fashion trends, find the best and brightest and doll 'em out to ya. Our interviews get you inside the heads of fashion-mavens, trend-setters and designers; plus we go behind the scenes at the shows offering first dibs on who to watch and what you'll want to get your hands on. With our monthly video installments, we'll take you around to visit boutiques and help you put together outfits that you can run out and own tonight before dinner. We'll show case some of the sleekest designs from a bevy of talented up and coming designers. Whether you're a total fashion-head and love to be in the know about the latest trends and newest designer darlings, or you're a classical-beauty kind of gal who just wants a few ideas for putting together something fun for a Saturday night out, we've got you covered. -Kari Check out our video installments:
Above the Fray Presents Gen Art Chicago Fresh Faces Recap. Shot and edited by BMP. from Video that rocks. on Vimeo.


Paper Bag Waist Shorts from Kari Skaflen on Vimeo.


Above The Fray, Ep. 2 - Elise Bergman Designs from Big Teeth Productions on Vimeo.

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El Fin introduces some New Beginnings

Chicago’s second annual Latino Fashion Week ended with an epic display of local talent, including Horacio Nieto, Orlando Espinoza and student designer Nora Del Busto.
Nora’s collection showed incredible diversity- from sculptural dresses reminiscent of a neoprene dream to an adorable tuxedo-ruffled mini dress, her pieces echo the vivacity of the culture so proudly represented at the event. Also making a strong showing was Orlando Espinoza. Though his similarly-yoked dresses became a little one note towards the end of the show, his use of grey satin and a unique silhouette was a breath of fresher air for a season that has been all to monotonous. I found his choice of satin paired with rayon or other synthetic materials interesting, and worth some contemplation, if not a second look.

Stealing the show, however, was Horacio Nieto. Opening with his first look- a large skirted, black dress with incredible embroidery- Nieto lifted the spirits of the show. His menswear included innovative vests, crossing over the chest and sipping rather than a boring old button closure. His pants for men were exquisite as well. They welcomed a safari-military-esq idea while still retaining their wearibility and excellent fit. The best look of his show, however, had to be the hunter green riding coat with a lovely skirt and nipped in waist. Drawing gasps from both Kari and I, it’s sure to be a hot seller.

-Kelsey Kreiling