From sketches to fabric choices, lost packages and outfits that didn’t fit…you have been well informed on everything that led up to the SPIRIT Fashion Show. Its’ only right that you get to see pictures from the runway, right?! Couldn’t agree with you more!
The setup was amazing and the crowd was definitely ready for a fabulous event.
Photo by: destinylrdrPhoto by: destinylrdr
Are you ready to see shots from the runway???
Photo by @destinylrdr
Take a look at all of the Fashion Not Fear styles that hit the runway and in this order…
Dark Romance Dress | Model: Dominique Aruede | Photo: Christina Jin @jinntonic
Brassy Top & Brassy Skirt | Model: Mabel Tsado |Photo: Christina Jin @jinntonic
Little Red Dress | Model: Tiara | Photo by: Christina Jin @jinntonic
Garden Party Top & Garden Party Skirt | Model: Shadie Ellington | Photo By: Christina Jin @jinntonic
Serious Business Top & Skirt | Model: Mayowa | Photo By: Christina Jin @jinntonic
Tangy Dress | Model: Cassia | Photo By: Christina Jin @jintonic
Femme Floral | Model: Baylea Anderson | Photo By: Christina Jin @jinntonic
Just Cooling Open Jacket & Skirt Set | Model: Bridget Mensah | Photo By: Christina Jin @jinntonic
Neon Mix Top & Neon Mix Skirt | Model: Courtney Holloman | Photo By: Christina Jin @jinntonic
I would like to thank all of the models who killed it on the runway for Fashion Not Fear. Each one of them worked the look that was made for them. Plus, an extra special thanks to my Mom who donated her time in making the masks. I gave her my vision and let her go!
Now, for the even better news: you can shop all of the looks on bluelabelsboutique.com, right now!!! Which styles are your favorite?? Let me know in the comments….
Have you ever been in the midst of doing something and realized that you are doing EXACTLY what you were meant to be doing?Well, that’s how I felt this past weekend.
The SPIRIT Fashion show was on Saturday, April 6th in Pittsburgh at Carnegie Mellon University.In my last entry of The Life & Times Of A Fearless Entrepreneur, I gave you a small glimpse into everything that I’ve been going through since joining the SPIRIT show this year.
Getting everything together for this show has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life!No bullshit.I mean, this isn’t the first time I’ve participated in a fashion show.It’s not even the first time I’ve been involved in this particular show.This time was just much harder for various reasons.The main reason being that all of the styles were handcrafted by yours truly.And if something could go wrong, it did!
Before sewing a single thing, I started as I usually do.I sketched out my ideas.But that seemed to be the only thing that panned out prior to the show.It was pretty unbelievable.The first mishap was the lost fabric packages.Which I never found (by the way.)
After countless trips to the fabric store, cutting patterns, and carefully creating 8 designs, I took two extra special packages to be shipped by Priority Mail.This is my shipping process everytime a package goes out.But this time was different.The worker wanted to give me a hard time about everything from the type of tape that used to them not wanting to give me a receipt.He didn’t know who he was trying…obviously.
After winning that battle, I patiently waited for the required two days for them to arrive at the college. On the 3rd day, the tracking number was entered on their website. Out for delivery…it said. I called USPS, held for 68 minutes and the damn phone hung up on me. I immediately called back.The USPS worker answered, after another hour hold. By that time, I was in tears. I’m a gangsta but how much can a girl take?! LOL Anyway, his answer to me was, “We will do an investigation and get back to you within 3 day.”
3 days.Who the hell had 3 days to wait??
That package needed to be there ASAP!In the midst of freaking out on the guy, I received the best email ever.
Hey Kristie,
The packages were delivered yesterday.I will let you know how everything fits!
SPIRIT Design Team
I apologized to Mr. USPS and hang up the phone.
After my apology, I thought I could coast.Working on show deadlines was a thing of the past. That didn’t last long.
Then this happened.
Hi Kristie,
Here are pics of the styles.There were some issues with fittings.
SPIRIT Design Team
“Issues with fittings” was the nice way of saying it.Some dress sleeves didn’t fit.Two of the models couldn’t even slide their skirts up.I was horrified.How could this have happened?Something was wrong with the measurements.For sure.
I headed straight to the fabric store.There was much work to be done!With only 3 days to do it.The only thing I had to do was make two dresses, two skirts, and adjust a skirt set.How hard could it be??
The next three nights were the longest and crankiest days of my life.This madness carried on until 4am on the morning I was scheduled to fly to Pittsburgh.I had to be at the airport at 630, so I was running off fumes by the time the plane hit the friendly skies.
After a safe arrival, I got tried again.First by trying to overcharge me for a rental car and secondly because our hotel room was somehow no longer available.Went to war with both, won, and then hit the town for a bit of a tour.
The next day was showtime!I went to CMU early in the day to meet up with the girls and finally fittings.It was a relief to know that the pieces fit great.
That’s when I knew that all of the madness was worth it.Sleeplessness nights, lost packages, frantic calls and breakdowns. It was all worth it.
#BTS shots
Now you know the steps that lead up to the show.Shots from the runway very soon.Stay tuned!
Did you catch these beauties on the runway?? My mother blessed me with these masks that she did by hand and these aren’t the only ones! She killed the masks the girls are wearing. They are a must see! Big, big, big shoutout to my Mama for doing this!
A daze.That’s how I would describe the last few weeks.It’s been a daze.As I’ve told you before, BLB and FNF is a one woman show.From blogging to running the online store, pop ups, monthly newsletters, designs, cutting patterns, finding fabric….I do it all.So, anytime there is more added to my plate….I get overwhelmed.But in a good way.There is something about having alot of shit to do that makes me feel like I’m conquering the world.
So, needless to say when I accepted an invite to participate in the 2019 SPIRIT Fashion Show, I knew things were going to get….excitingly overwhelming!You might’ve noticed that there has been a few gaps in my posting on the blog and social media lately.The reason partially is because of the new designs I’m working on.I can sew all day when I have a creative idea that I want to add to the store with little to no issues.But that isn’t the case when I’m working on something that has a deadline for some reason.
It seems like if a deadline is involved in what I am creating, everything can and will go wrong.In the process of making the new looks for this show, I have experienced so many mishaps.For instance, two orders of fabric were lost in the mail.Okay not two…just one.The other one was stolen off of my porch.I was completely pissed about that, to say the least.Since then, I’ve been giving my neighbors the side eye.One of them took my damn package.What are they going to do with 10 yards of red scuba knit fabric?They could’ve even returned it back to my porch after seeing what it was.I would’ve let it go.But did that happen?Nope. I still haven’t gotten over it.Can you tell?
That is just one of the issues that have come up during this creative process for the students of CMU.Fabric has gotten stuck in my sewing machine like never before.I removed a pocket from adress and it created the BIGGEST hole you have ever seen.There was no fabric available to remake it so the entire look was ditched.
I can go on and on about all of the crap that has happen.But I wouldn’t change any of it!Sure, when I am in the middle of it, I want to rip my braids out! After resolving the situation, I move on and try to forget all about the crying fit I just had over a broken needle.As crazy as it sounds…it is all worth it.The morning after I dropped out the 9 looks that will hit the runway, I couldn’t help to reflect on how tough things seemed.
Looking at the postal receipt, I came to the realization how much I’d grown as a designer.I mean, last year, was my first time putting my handmade designs on the runway.It wasn’t all me though.My mother and Aunt helped me to sew alot.But not this year!Every, single design was made by yours truly.You will however, see the models wearing something on their face that was created by my mother.I gave her a vision and let her do her thang.They turned out amazing.Can’t wait for you all to see.
Soooooo, make plans for the evening of April 6th to sit back and enjoy what is sure to be an amazing event!Want to see what I’ve been working on??You can go to spiritfashionshow.com/tickets for the show details and tickets if you will be in Pittsburgh.If not, you can livestream the show.Stay tuned because I will drop the link here and my social media platforms.Also, look out for a signature cocktail recipe that you can enjoy at home while watching the show.
Thanks for reading.I gotta get back to it.My fearless journey continues!Let me know if you will be watching the show in the comments…
Happy Monday!Firstly, apologies to you!There is a new post here on every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of each week like clockwork.However, there weren’t any posts last week.Its been a whole week since there has been a post on FNF.I know how it can be when you get used to something and then things just…change.Sorry for that.Allow me to explain…
A couple of weeks ago, the announcement was made that Fashion Not Fear will be in the upcoming SPIRIT Fashion Show that is held at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh on April 6th.Since that announcement dropped, things have gotten REAL!
My lineup consists of 9 models that range in a sizes from Xs to XXL.Each style has to be imagined, sketched, pattern made and/or found, fabric sourced and cut, sewn, re-sewn (in some cases).Its alot for one person.But no complaints from me…because I LOVE this shit!
Anyway, the before mentioned steps have to be done 9 times for this show.Well, actually 8 times.There will be a two piece set that was previously dropped that you will see in the show.It just went with the theme so well that it was hard to leave it out.
Needless to say, I have been working non-stop for the past few weeks.I’m surprised that I found the time to write this.I just thought y’all needed to know the tea.
In addition to all of this, Blue Labels Boutique will be popping up this weekend.Saturday, you can come shop at the Night Lights Event in San Antonio.You can check out their website for ticket information.Hope to see you there!
Now, that you are fully informed, I’m headed back to the sewing machine.Almost at the finish line!Any guesses on which skirt set will be in the show??Let me know in the comments…
An announcement was made on our IG page. Did you catch it? Okay, if you didn’t then…read on.
I am excited to announce that Fashion Not Fear will be on the runway at this years SPIRIT Fashion Show! The SPIRIT Fashion Show is the longest running fashion show EVER. It is held each year at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA.
This is their 32nd year and it will be lit (as the kids say)!
This years’ theme is about the journey of introspection. The idea is to express self discovery and rectifying flaws through style. The show will be on Saturday April 6th. And ya’ girl has already been working on this! Seriously, I have lace, thread, chiffon, and needles all over the place.
This will be my third year participating in this event. The first time, it was a mix of dresses, pants, shorts, etc. The second year, was the first time all Fashion Not Fear dresses hit the runway. So, of course I have to kick things up alot.
This year, you will be able to shop directly from the runway. They will be available on bluelabelsboutique.com immediately following the show! If you don’t live in Pittsburgh or surrounding areas, then don’t sweat it. You will be able to livestream the show.
There will be other talented designers in the show. Along with other artists.
9 new Fashion Not Fear dress styles at one time. This will be something that you DON’T WANT TO MISS!
You can get all of the show and ticket info at spiritfashionshow.com. Plus, you already know I will keep you updated here and on IG (@bluelabelsboutique). I can’t wait to show you what I’ve been working on.
Will you be at the show or will you be able to livestream it?? Let me know in the comments…
You’ve watched the livestream, you have seen the sketches; now here is your chance to see pics from the runway.
LaShae Gordon in the Hydrant Top & Skirt | 📸 by Christina JinLaShae Gordon in the Hydrant Top & Skirt | 📸 by Kohei AraiLaShae Gordon in the Hydrant Top & Skirt | 📸 by Tyler DavisOluwatobi Ajimoko in the T-Shirt Dress with Fearless Belt 📸 by Kohei AraiOluwatobi Ajimoko in the T-Shirt Dress with Fearless Belt📸 by Kohei AraiOluwatobi Ajimoko in the T-Shirt Dress with Fearless Belt📸 by Kohei AraiNjaire Mckoy in the Sheer Hoodie & Reverse Denim Skirt | 📸 by Kohei AraiNjaire Mckoy in the Sheer Hoodie & Reverse Denim Skirt | 📸 by Kohei AraiNjaire Mckoy in the Sheer Hoodie & Reverse Denim Skirt | 📸 by Kohei AraiLovisa Brandon in the Suspender Dress | 📸 by Kohei AraiLovisa Brandon in the Suspender Dress | 📸 by Kohei AraiLovisa Brandon in the Suspender Dress | 📸 by Kohei AraiBernice Yu in the Floral Top & Skirt Set | 📸 by Kohei AraiBernice Yu in the Floral Top & Skirt Set | 📸 by Kohei AraiBernice Yu in the Floral Top & Skirt Set | 📸 by Kohei Arai
Now all that’s left is for you to decide what you want because you can shop the collection on May 7th! Let me know what your favorites are in the comments…
A few months back, it was announced the Fashion Not Fear Collection was in the making. At the time, I was working on a collection of graphic tees, hats, and phone accessories. Which was released in September. Thanks to everyone who is supporting it. I see you in your Fearless Woman Tee! 😉
For as long as I can remember, it has always been a dream to create clothes. I guess it is because I learned the power of a good dress at a young age. No one sat me down and said, “a good dress does this…..” It was more like a feeling I would get while wearing what I consider to be a good dress versus how I feel in an okay dress. Good dresses make you feel confident, put a smile on your face, make you stand straighter, walk different…it’s just a positive, happy vibe. An okay dress is just okay. And don’t get me started on a bad dress!
I didn’t know if I was going to be a designer, buyer, stylist or how I would do it. I just knew that I wanted to put women in dresses that made them feel good. So the fact that I am telling you right now that I am in the beginning stages of extending the collection blows my mind! Dresses, skirts, and matching sets are on the way. Sketches have been drawn, fabric has been selected, stick pins have been placed…this is really happening! Of course, you will be the first to know all of the details as they come along. Stay tuned for that.
2017 SPIRIT Fashion Show
I am also eager to announce that the students of Carnegie Mellon University has asked BLB to participate in their 2018 SPIRIT Fashion Show and we happily accepted. The SPIRIT Fashion Show is the longest running fashion show. It is held each year at Carnegie Mellon University by an organization called SPIRIT. Which is a multicultural organization that aims to champion black awareness. This is the 3rd year BLB has been involved in the event. Each year, it gets bigger and better. This year, the theme of the show is Understanding & Exploration of African Diaspora. It has been interesting coming up with ways to creatively incorporate this idea through fashion but I have some tricks up my sleeve. Plus, this will be the first time new FNF pieces will be hitting the runway. You don’t want to miss it! The show will be held on April 7th so come through and check it out if you will be in the Pittsburgh, PA area. You can also go to spiritfashionshow.com for tickets and more information.
Do you love a good dress? How do you think I should highlight the topic at the SPIRIT Fashion Show? Let me know in the comments…
Hooray, it’s Fri-yay! I know it sounds corny but I couldn’t resist. ☺️
It was previously announced that BLB would be participating in the 2017 SPIRIT Fashion Show at Carnegie Mellon University. The event was last Saturday in Pittsburgh, Pa. I originally planned to attend the event but things changed at the very last minute. You will get the details on that later…
I was sick about missing the show and not being able to support the students from the audience. But since this was BLBs second year styling the CMU students for their annual show I knew one thing for sure…THEY WERE GOING TO KILL IT! And they didn’t disappoint. The message this year was resisting against the limits put on women.
Take a look at what went down at the SPIRIT FASHION SHOW ’17: RESISTANCE.
The Future Is Female D.I.Y Top X Always Royal Skirt Model: Ally HooverThe Future Is Female D.I.Y Top X Always Royal Skirt Model: Ally HooverOutline Dress Model: Bernie YuOutline Dress Model: Bernie YuTo The Courts Dress Model: Brooke CarterTo The Courts Dress Model: Brooke CarterVictoria Baby Dress Model: Catherine MondoaVictoria Baby Dress Model: Catherine MondoaThe Serena Dress Model: Mindy MillerThe Serena Dress Model: Mindy MillerHeart Females D.I.Y Top X Colorblocked SkirtModel: Katie ListonHeart Females D.I.Y Top X Colorblocked Skirt Model: Katie ListonDrama Queen Dress Model: Lauren HallDrama Queen Dress Model: Lauren HallMrs. Georgia Peach Dress Model: Njaire McCoy Fearless D.I.Y Top x Just Asking Skirt Model: Noel LauDon’t Plaid Me Dress Model: Ravyn Clark
[all images are by Aaron Friedlander]
Special thanks to CMU as well as all of the models and people behind the scenes. Must success to each and every one of you! You can see more about the show at https://www.spiritfashionshow.com. Of course, you can cop all of these looks at BLB.
Enjoy your Easter weekend & let me know what you think about styles from the show?
Dark Romance Dress | Model: Dominique Aruede | Photo: Christina Jin @jinntonic
