Fade To Light

Check out my photos from inside of of the best fashion events in Portland. Plus it’s all stuff you might actually wear!

I love going to fashion shows.  I’ve been to Portland Fashion Week a few times and The Mercury’s annual Open Season shows.  I’m no expert on fashion (in fact, my personal style is rather terrible), but I’ve been to enough productions that I’m starting to get an understanding of what makes a great fashion SHOW.  And the recent runway show at the Crystal Ballroom was a great one.

It had great local designers, reasonable seating and a high production value.  Plus lots of the clothes were pieces the average person can actually buy and wear:  Simple dresses, separates, accessories, etc.  In the weeks since, I’ve even seen some of the clothes in store windows around town.  It’s also worth noting that though I frequently complain about models speedwalking the runway, that didn’t happen at this show.  There was plenty to time to take it all in. 

Eight local designers participated and it was a perfect number.  You saw a lot of clothes but it never turned into a slog.  One designer even hired a local dance troop to perform which really added some fun and energy to the evening.  

I usually prefer a raised runway for the best visability, but instead, this show kept the seating 3 rows deep (at a maximum) and offered balcony seating as well.  I opted to buy standing tickets.  They are cheapest and I had a great view as you can see from my photos.  

This show happens twice a year.  If you are at all “fashion curious,” I highly suggest checking it out.  Kids are welcome too, so if you have any little ones who like clothes or just dressing up, bring them along!  The bi-annual shows occur each February & August.  

FADE TO LIGHT: A MULTI DIMENTIONAL FASHION SHOW
BI-ANNUAL SHOW: FEBRUARY & AUGUST
CRYSTAL BALLROOM