Raleigh Street Fashion

Local Designer Profile - Sonya Coulson Rook of Metamorphosis Metals

2010-06-01T09:09:00.029-04:00

I first saw metamorphosis metals jewelry a couple of years ago at the Rock & Shop market and then noticed several pieces on display at Stitch.

Sonya Coulson Rook, the creator, has been designing and working as metamorphosis metals since the end of 2006. She grew up in Greenville, NC, and has been in Raleigh for six years. Sonya's pieces incorporate simple metal wire shapes, pieces of bullets, lapel pins and old jewelry and other elements in precious metals and copper. Many of her pieces show the evidence of age, patina and even decay. Sonya was recently so kind as to answer a few questions for a Raleigh Street Fashion Local Designer Profile.

What first made you want to become a designer?
I have always loved making and building things, and come from a very craft oriented family. My father builds furniture as a hobby and my mother has always loved needlework and sewing. She was always developing craft projects for my sister and I to do. I majored in art in college but wasn’t sure what direction I wanted to go in so on the recommendation of a professor I signed up for a metal design class. I knew I was hooked the first time I picked up the torch.

Could you describe your creative process?
Its very organic, I rarely know what a piece will look like until its finished. I start with an object, element or basic idea and work from there, incorporating other components and playing around with the composition until I’m happy with it.

How long does it take you to create a piece, from the inspiration to
the finished product?
It really varies from piece to piece, some designs fall together easily and naturally, others are much more difficult and require lots of trial and error.

What inspires you?
Anything and everything; rust, texture, bones, buttons, nature, minimalism, decay, broken tile, dusty old books, pealing paint, crumbling architecture, memories, love and loss.

Apart from jewelry design, what do you like to do?
I love sewing, painting, photography, decorating, reading, and recently I’ve been trying my hand at learning to cook. Unfortunately there is not nearly enough time for any of these activities.

How would you describe your personal style?
I like the mix of old and new, layers of textures and patterns, and nothing makes me happier than when things are put together in an unexpected way that really works.

Check out Sonya's creations online or see them in person at one of these events:

june 13: RebusFest - raleigh, nc

july 11: the big crafty - asheville, nc

august 28: lazy daze - cary, nc

Ooh!

2010-05-05T15:45:00.002-04:00

indieNC, the producer of The Rock & Shop Market, has announced a First Friday Market at 131 South Wilmington Street in downtown Raleigh this Friday, May 7.

Redress Raleigh is almost here!

2010-04-13T15:00:00.003-04:00

The second annual Redress Raleigh fashion show will highlight "innovative concepts from local designers whose collections consider the human impact of fashion on our environment." Organizers Mor Aframian, Jamie Powell and Beth Stewart will present 15 designers' interpretations of reinventing the fashion world at 7pm on Saturday, April 17, 2010, at Flanders Art Gallery.

The show will be held as part of Raleigh's Planet Earth Celebration, hosted by Burt’s Bees and the Museum of Natural Sciences. Redress and charity partner MorLove will also have a booth at the Green Bazaar, on the Bicentennial Plaza from 11am to 5pm. Proceeds from the sale of locally-designed and handmade items at the RR/MorLove booth will be donated to the Amani Baby Cottage, an orphanage in Jinja, Uganda, near the shores of Lake Victoria.

Take a peek into the eco-friendly side of the fashion world. Check out the Redress Raleigh site for one of the very few remaining tickets to the show. Standing tickets will be available at the door.

Coming soon*

2010-03-04T14:21:00.009-05:00

Art to Wear at NCSU!

This fashion show is a collaboration of NC State’s College of Textiles students and College of Design students.

Photo by Devin McKim

*April 14th, 2010, to be exact, just a few days before the 2010 ReDress Raleigh show.

reDress Raleigh 2010 update!

2010-01-27T14:21:00.000-05:00

ReDress Raleigh 2010 is coming in April!

ReDress Raleigh showcases ecological and sustainable fashion by up-and-coming designers. The list for the 2010 show includes some of our own favorites, such as Jamie Powell of Revamp and the lovely (and always good!) Johanna Ely of Good Girls Studio!

Local Designer Profile - Johanna Ely/Good Girls Studio

2010-01-12T15:36:00.006-05:00

I honestly don't remember where I first discovered Good Girls Studio jewelry. It seems I've seen Johanna's lovely creations all over, at Catch 22 on a First Friday, at Revolver, at Get Dressed, on etsy, at FashionSPARK... she's one busy lady!

I love the way she pulls much loved but forgotten pieces together with modern style and I admire her upbeat attitude and work ethic! It is so easy to see how this good girl has plenty of good fun!

Who are you?
Johanna Ely aka The Good Girl

Where are you from?
Tampa, FL, by way of a little town in Ohio & currently living in Raleigh!

How long have you been designing/working as Good Girls Studio?
About 3 years now!

Where does the name originate?
I am the middle child, the good girl was my default title growing up :)

What first made you want to become a designer?
My love of vintage jewelry & frustration with how to wear it gave birth to designing & reinventing those forgotten treasures.

How long does it take you to create a piece, from the inspiration to the finished product?
Sometimes an hour sometimes months!

Could you describe your creative process?
I tend to make small piles of collection of vintage & salvaged things that go together in my brain. Once I see a theme I live with it for awhile , adding pieces & taking away until I see it's potential. I might discover some junked up treasure on the street or at thrift store & hide it away (for sometimes months) before I realize what I need to make with it!

What inspires you?
The history of fashion, the stories of the women who wore each little trinket before this time.

How would you describe your personal style?
eclectic :)

Apart from Good Girls Studio, what do you like to do?
I love to read, watch my son play basketball, listen to great music & hang out with my amazing friends!

What possession do you most cherish?
a quilt my late grandmother made for me when I graduated from high school. I also have tons of treasures from scouring the world of Etsy!

Check out the Good Girls Studio blog, where Johanna reveals new pieces and shares tidbits of her busy world.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-04T16:56:00.002-05:00

The first six months of Raleigh Street Fashion have been lots of fun, so I can't wait to see what 2010 brings!

Rock & Shop this Saturday

2009-12-17T11:09:00.000-05:00

Local food, local beer, local bands and locally designed & handmade goodies!

For those last-minute holiday gifts, check out the Rock & Shop Market this Saturday, December 19. The 10th Rock & Shop Market will be at All Saints Chapel in downtown Raleigh from 1-5 pm.

I'm excited to see what's new from some of my favorites, like ahpeele, miss fitt, All That's Good Apparel, Lucky Accessories and The Other Edge.

ReDress Raleigh 2010 - a Fashion Show

2009-12-15T16:55:00.012-05:00

The designer application deadline for the 2010 ReDress Raleigh fashion show is fast approaching. The form, sketches and $10 application fee are due by December 31, 2009.

In case you missed it, (yeah, me too) Goodnight, Raleigh! has a good article covering the recent Revolution Couture First Friday show over at Pullen Memorial Baptist Church on Hillsborough Street. The event was held to benefit ReDress Raleigh and MorLove and included designs from Apology, Bren Anderson and Emily Mays.

ReDress Raleigh is co-hosted and co-produced by MorLove, Revamp and the NC Triangle Chapter of Emerging Green Builders.

Sharing the Love - The Pajama Program

2009-12-08T09:45:00.003-05:00

The holidays are a time to share laughter, love and good times with those you hold dear. Giving, and receiving, gifts is a highlight for many and brings to mind the wonder in the eyes of a child at the sparkling lights and the promise of snow.

Mother Teresa said, “The most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being unloved.” This year has been particularly hard on a lot of folks and there are many without the support of a loving family or the comforts of a home.

The Pajama Program provides pajamas and books to children in orphanages, foster homes and shelters, many of whom have known little comfort or security in their lives. Many of whom have been abused, neglected, and abandoned. There are chapters all over the US, including one in Raleigh.

Raleigh Chapter President Sue Myers stated, "So many people take the simple comforts of curling up with a book or getting into a pair of cozy pajamas for granted. But these children have never had that. Most do not have a home. They may never been tucked into bed by a parent and read to." She added that many of these children have never owned either a book or pajamas of their own. "These simple things mean so much to any child, but especially to ones that feel scared about so many things, including what their tomorrow may bring."

There are several ways to contribute to the Pajama Program. Please consider sharing the love.

Fresh & Fun for Wednesday

2009-12-02T10:46:00.005-05:00

The RM by Roland Mouret Rainbow Collection for net-a-porter.com shows how great detailing and bright color can flatter any figure, making YOU your own best accessory!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T09:09:00.000-05:00

Raleigh Street Fashion wishes everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!

We have lots of reasons to be thankful but, sometimes, the pace of life can cause one to take those things for granted. We tend to forget that passing on the love is part of what makes a good life. As you visit with friends and family for Thanksgiving and as you begin to plan your holiday gift shopping, keep in mind all the things you're thankful for and all those who make you feel loved. There are many ways to pass that on to the community (I'll share a few another day).

For today, have a Happy Thanksgiving!

These Boots Were Made for Walking

2009-11-21T09:47:00.005-05:00

I first noticed Marciela's sleek boots and skinny jeans, paired with the yummy white coat, then helped her find her way to her hotel. She told me she is from Columbia, where she also got her boots, and that she had noticed the style of boots here seemed to be 'bigger.'

Hazel and The Art of the Trench

2009-11-13T15:00:00.011-05:00

The amazing color of Hazel's trenchcoat caught my eye, followed by her hairstyle and shoes. The look is well-balanced with black and white accessories.

Chains of love got a hold on me

2009-11-13T09:31:00.001-05:00

bevello

Good Girls Studio

AraLeigh Studios

Munted Kowhai

For a Rainy Day

2009-11-12T09:42:00.000-05:00

Clementiny

Holla...

2009-11-09T09:12:00.003-05:00

Raleigh Street Fashion in the News & Observer style section!

That is all for now.

Etsy Wednesday - Autumn Color

2009-11-04T09:30:00.002-05:00

Ayca

Marian Smale

sewono

Shop Local Friday - Brighten up your day

2009-10-30T09:49:00.004-04:00

AHPeele

Good Girls Studio

We've been kinda slack about posting over here and we'd like to apologize. Hopefully the etsy finds from Wednesday and these local finds for today will redeem us! We'd like to make it a regular/weekly thing, so if you find something (or sell something!) lovely and would like to share, send us a photo and a link!

bevello

Etsy Wednesday - Brighten up your day

2009-10-28T09:30:00.006-04:00

TJT Design

plumberry vintage

Little Houses

Elena Makes Things

A rainy fall day deserves a lovely umbrella

2009-10-12T14:41:00.006-04:00

Classic solid or playful pattern, foul weather doesn't have to ruin your day, or your style!

The Uniform Project - Fashion for a Cause

2009-09-30T13:08:00.005-04:00

She's been at it since May 1, but Sheena Matheiken's Uniform Project is far from complete. She's wearing the same button-up black shift dress (well, she's rotating seven identical dresses) for 365 days to raise money for the Akanksha Foundation. The project statement on the website explains that this is an exercise in sustainable fashion to benefit the Akanksha Foundation's School Project to fund uniforms and educational supplies for children in the slums of India.

Not only is Sheena's 'uniform' fairly sustainable, her accessories are vintage, handmade and thrifted. Each day's photo lists the pieces of her ensemble, including links to designers' websites and etsy shops. Check out the photos going back to May; it should be fun to see how the uniform changes with the seasons (already evident with the recent shift to cooler fall temps) and how the accessories continue to bring variety.

This one from September 14 (during Fashion Week) is my personal favorite so far!

Designer's Downtown Market - September 12

2009-09-13T09:33:00.011-04:00

Saturday's weather was perfect for browsing the Designers' Downtown Market on West Street at Ornamentea and Get Dressed. Delicious crepes were there for the sampling!

Beautiful handmade jewelry, pottery and textiles in delicious colors, too!

etsy local - Odds & Ends

2009-09-13T08:36:00.000-04:00

Quickly falling in love with the wonderful free-form hand-felted accessories made by Elena for the Odds & Ends etsy shop. This one is called "Blossom".

etsy for Friday - Hurricane Boutique

2009-09-11T09:16:00.001-04:00

Checking out the Hurricane Boutique etsy shop, digging the blue zipper ring!

Traffic Jam part 2 - Something for Everybody

2009-09-03T09:38:00.002-04:00

A warm Saturday afternoon was a great time to check out the Traffic Jam 2 flea market and block party put on by the folks at AHPeele on Capital Boulevard. There was a DJ, a band, homemade cookies and lots of handmade jewelry, art, fashion and thrifty finds. Check out Raleigh Street Fashion on Facebook for more photos.

Fashion On The Move, Ninja Style

2009-09-02T08:52:00.006-04:00

This isn't quite what we'd normally call 'on the move,' because we could have waited for this lovely lady to finish her phone call and turn around. Unfortunately we were pressed for time with an actual errand for work (and couldn't stop in to Revolver either), so this is what we have. Her top does remind me of the color wheel dress I've seen at Catch 22. A similar floaty feel with flecks of color, really a fairly perfect transition piece for fall.

The Square Project

2009-08-26T09:58:00.002-04:00

I found out about Tara St James and her quest to show at New York Fashion Week from an article on Lemondrop. It all sounds rather architectural to me... turns out she's reading Rem Koolhaas, too. The different shapes (well, they all start out as squares) and textures are so intriguing, I can't wait to see more.

Tara heads up Study NY, a creative collective committed to using sustainable (recycled, organic) materials. She's working toward launching "The Square Project" clothing line at New York Fashion Week's Green Show.

From her site:

"‘The Square Project’, the first clothing line from the collective, will launch at New York Fashion Week in September as part of The Green Shows, the only premiere fashion event exclusively committed to eco-friendly, ethically sound, fair trade fashion in NYC.

The Square Project is a study of shapes in relation to the human form – starting with the square.

The collection will comprise of 9 styles, (a square number of course), offered in two seperate colours. Each style will be made from a different number of squares."

Check out the photos on her site, 4equalsides.com and this video.

FashionSPARK kicks off tonight!

2009-08-26T09:49:00.001-04:00

FashionSPARK 2009 kicks off tonight in downtown Raleigh with the announcement of this year's lineup at Mosaic at 9 pm.

There will be a screening of the 2008 show, too. I promise to take lots of photos!

Summer Weddings...

2009-08-24T11:43:00.003-04:00

aren't always quite this fabulous, but not everyone has multiple titles that include model and designer.

Counting down to FashionSPARK

2009-08-18T13:01:00.004-04:00

It is officially one month to the "Wear What You Are" fashion & body art show on Fayetteville Street on September 18. The event page says, "FashionSPARK 2009 will once again showcase the Triangle’s favorite up-and-coming fashion and accessory designers and stylists on the runway in Wear What You Are. The show evokes and celebrates the true nature and joy of individual expression through fashion." That's what RSF is all about, so we can't wait!

Hel Looks is back from vacation!

2009-08-16T09:41:00.003-04:00

Hel Looks is really the original inspiration for Raleigh Street Fashion. Other things have influenced my "hobby project" here, but these folks are dedicated to people-watching... they've been at it since 2005!

They took the month of July off and I know I've missed it, check it out!

Shop Local Raleigh "Independents" Contest

2009-08-10T11:13:00.005-04:00

Check out the shoplocalraleigh.org "Celebrate Your Independents" contest to win a $500 Shopping Spree to participating businesses. Member businesses include not only retail and health & beauty but also restaurants, professional services and art supplies.

Lookbook Envy

2009-08-10T09:36:00.005-04:00

If you haven't browsed the fashion blog world and fallen in love with Lookbook.nu you are doing yourself a disservice. Here, go take a quick peek, we'll wait...

Not only are there some serious fashionistas and awesome color combos, but some of the photography is pretty amazing in and of itself.

Kiersten, 23

2009-08-09T15:22:00.008-04:00

dress: anthropologie
earrings: Light Years
bag: from Argentina, Carla Danielli

Check out the Street Fashion Album over on Facebook.

First Friday recap

2009-08-08T08:51:00.011-04:00

After a steamy start at twilight, we had so much fun we forgot we were supposed to be taking photos!

Tiki Bar at Get Dressed.

Outside Hibernian (Go Hokies!)

From West & Glenwood to Hargett & Wilmington (and back, on foot) there was lots to see and plenty of opportunity to catch up with old friends and quench our collective thirst.

Art by Jen Padilla at Catch 22

Catch 22

What we loved but didn't photograph was the Finding Home exhibit at The Morning Times gallery. Lovely photographs by Rebecca Necessary that you can check out yourself through August 31.

Nathan Smith and Dayle Eason,
kind enough to chat on their way to catch the R Line!

Check out the First Friday Album over on Facebook.

...Got plenty of places to go...

2009-08-07T12:09:00.009-04:00

First Friday always proves to be a good night for art, clothes and people-watching, so come join us! Between Catch 22 and The Morning Times gallery (for the Finding Home exhibit), who knows what else we'll find?

Raleigh Denim on style.com

2009-08-05T22:43:00.002-04:00

Style File blog from the end of last week, this is likely not news to anyone by now. It is nice to see one of our local flavor favorites recognized by the greater fashion world.

Go check out...

2009-08-04T09:11:00.005-04:00

The photography of Pascal Perich. I first noticed the photo credit on something lovely at LedThread. Probably, actually, on her flickr.

I went looking and found some of the most amazing images. Portraits, fashion, architecture, art, document. Wow, just wow.

On the move!

2009-08-03T09:12:00.003-04:00

I spied the cute espadrilles on this young woman, riding her scooter to work. This photo was a happy accident, I love how the mirrors capture her face and really complete the image.

Check out the Street Fashion Album over on Facebook.

Local Designer Profile: Koa Designs/ Cristina Godette

2009-08-01T15:13:00.029-04:00

I discovered Koa Designs through the 'Shop Local' function on etsy.com. I was immediately impressed by the vibrant colors, bold shapes and delicate painting of the pieces. The craftsmanship and detailing are consistent and the heart & soul of the designer are so obvious in the work, I was an instant fan!

Koa Designs was founded by Cristina Godette. She has graciously agreed to be the first Raleigh Street Fashion Featured Local Designer!

Who are you and where are you from?

My name is Cristina Godette. I was born and raised right here in Raleigh, NC.

What first made you want to become a designer?

I can't say that I actually made a conscious decision to become a designer because I grew up in a very creative environment so designing just came naturally for me.

What kind of creative environment? Artists in the family?

Well when I was a child my mother was especially supportive. She noticed that I took a special interest in the creative arts (singing, drawing, dancing, etc.) and she would always find ways to keep me involved in related activities. My uncle was a professional dancer, writer/director and a Broadway actor and although he passed away in my childhood I believe that same creative gift he possessed lives on in me.

How long have you been designing/working as Koa Designs?

I actually started off as Cristina's Jewelry in 2005 and since then my designs evolved and I soon changed my business name to Koa Designs in 2009. I guess you can say it has been a four year work in progress.

Where does the name "Koa" originate?

Koa, pronounced koe-wah is Swahili for bold and attractive. I wanted a name that embodied the soulful, ethnic flair and the beautiful boldness of my jewelry.

What inspires you?

Many things inspire me but, what inspires me the most are all types of people, nature and the emotions of music.

Could you describe your creative process?

I guess you could say my creative process comes simply when I see shapes and colors in everything from a building to beautiful dress that grabs my attention. I never "think" I just do and the design ideas always flow.

How long does it take you to create a piece, from the inspiration to the finished product?

The time it takes me to create a piece from start to finish varies greatly. Sometimes I'll have instant inspirations and I'll complete several pieces in just a day. However, other times I may start pieces and get "designer's block" and I'll usually spend a day or two just doing color combinations in my mind, I'll daydream or listen to music and after a few days I'll complete the pieces.

Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I'm fortunate to be able to make a living creating things but, down time is always great and apart from designing I enjoy hanging out with my husband & my family. I have to mention that I'm starting a non-profit called 'The Koa Initiative', which will be a program dedicated to the education and empowerment of young ladies of all races in our community. This is a project that I'm deeply passionate about and I also see this as an opportunity to give back all that has been given to me!

What possession do you most cherish?

Believe it or not the possession I cherish most are the memories of my mom and dad buying my first coloring sets, it always sticks out in my mind.

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is what I call, " urban funk". I'm drawn to rich and vibrant colors I LOVE crazy printed tees (dressy or casual), a great pair of jeans, cute heels and of course I love to wear pieces from my jewelry collection!

Can you tell me about the tee shirt you're wearing (in your photo)? The earrings are your own design, right?

The t-shirt I'm wearing in the photo is a store purchase but, I feel it definitely represents my bold style, my vibrant personality and my love for comfortable clothing. Yes, the earrings in this photo are one of my designs and you can see my favorite color is plum!

What is your favorite book, movie and musical group?

My favorite movie is the Notebook it's a great timeless story, my favorite book is Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston and my absolute favorite band is The Fray. Although I like most music, they're my all time favorite!

Fashion on the move!

2009-07-30T21:49:00.004-04:00

This lady crossed the street in front of me Saturday evening and I couldn't act fast enough before the light changed! Her 'jumpsuit' was black with sparkles and had slits up the legs.

So in Love

2009-07-24T13:00:00.003-04:00

with this skirt.

More people with bicycles!

2009-07-20T12:36:00.002-04:00

Awesome photos, from Joshua Hoffman Photography and some cool outfits! Thanks to New Raleigh for the heads up...

Love the shoes and hat...

2009-07-20T10:11:00.002-04:00

The summer white, with the crisp blue and red... sweetness.
From The Sartorialist

Find us on Facebook

2009-07-18T11:00:00.006-04:00

We're now on Facebook!

Become a fan, join a discussion, post photos!

On the Street - Katelyn, 20

2009-07-11T08:27:00.007-04:00

07-09-09
Katelyn is a hair stylist and loves bargain hunting for unique pieces. "The dress is from Ross and the vest is from Kohl's."

Red carpet, not Raleigh

2009-07-10T16:25:00.007-04:00

I've had lots of fun seeing what both Emma Watson and Bonnie Wright are wearing on the premiere tour for the new Harry Potter movie. First in London and then New York, these lovely girls are wearing great dresses with great accessories. Bonnie appears to have a thing for red shoes!

Amanda, 27

2009-07-10T08:26:00.002-04:00

07-08-09
Amanda says she doesn't put a lot of thought into her clothes. "I just got back from two weeks in Guatemala, so this is what was clean!" She likes finding unique pieces when she travels, like the wood and gold bracelet she's wearing.

Kali, 21 + Demi, 20

2009-07-07T16:21:00.003-04:00

7/07/2009

Kali says "This look is casual for me." Her style incorporates lots of color, fun sneakers and pieces that are casual yet expressive.

Shoes: Burlington Coat Factory in Virginia Beach

Demi wears lots of jeans, shorts and t-shirts but also enjoys suiting up "just for fun!"

Brooke, 28

2009-07-07T16:17:00.004-04:00

7/07/2009

Dress: Forever 21

Shoes: Dots

Bag: Louis Vuitton

SparkCon will be September 17-20, 2009

2009-07-06T11:42:00.000-04:00

July 13, 2009, is the deadline for entry submission forms for fashionSPARK

The runway show will be in the middle of Fayetteville Street on September 18!

Remembering a Fashion Icon: Michael Jackson

2009-07-03T16:45:00.002-04:00

My first awareness of Michael Jackson was my parents' copy of the Thriller album. I distinctly remember my impression of his music being of happiness and fun, pure and simple. Most of his music was about fun... a celebration of life and love. Things, it seems, he missed out on quite a lot of his own life. Think what you will about his last decade or so, he was a pioneer in music, fashion and personal style.

Just an idea...

2009-07-02T21:57:00.004-04:00

An unoriginal one, at that. Since taking inspiration from others is okay in fashion, I won't feel bad about it.

I love clothing and accessories. I have a great appreciation for the art of fashion and haute coutoure. Personal, individual style is a passion. I hope this will be a place to celebrate all these things. I hope to photograph people I see in and around my 'home' town of Raleigh, North Carolina. I hope to bring attention to the little local shops and designers as well. This isn't about hatin' or judging in any way (I'm not that witty), this is just about fun. Although maybe, occasionally, I'll have an opinion.