Move Over NYC and LA... Fashion Loves Akron

Akron's High Street Gallery was the place to be Saturday night, April 17. Women's fashion boutique NOTO presented a fantastic fashion show that attracted more than 100 guests (including myself and AL&L account executive Meg Dyer), despite the evening's unseasonably cold weather.

This brainchild of NOTO owner Lauren Ward, this year's show improved upon the first show in 2009. "This year was definitely a step up from last year," Ward explains. "The clothes were a little brighter, we had a great group of girls, and the hair and makeup were stunning. We also had so many people involved this year that helped out and made it great."

That list includes the show's boisterous host Jason Adams as well as stylists from Studio MC (MC Hair Consultants' new salon, opening the first week of May), who provided hair and makeup. Hair styles were soft and poofy bouffant, each with a loose braid that fell to one side -- very romantic and earthy. And, of course, what's a fashion show without models? Jenna Karem, Laurie Perduyn, Hannah Lewis, Mary Beth Debery, Christina DeRoia and Caroline Hupp worked the runway this year.

With music by Travel Log, the show was full of energy and excitement. Featured clothing lines were Gentle Fawn and Scrap Originals, with jewelry by Cookie Lee and Dogwood Design.

Now to get to the clothes... Here are some thoughts from Meg, AL&L's resident fashionista:

All models wore black cowboy boots, which gave the urban outfits a grounded and young feel.

Super skinny jeans with decorated back pockets were paired with loose and flowy tops. The jeans included acid washes in jewel tones, turquoise and purple.

Scrap originals had a vintage flare while still appearing modern and fresh. A lot of heavy, metallic chains with light, fresh decals.

High-waisted skirts, still hanging around for another season. (FYI: A high waist skirts can make your legs appear L-O-N-G)

The make-shift hood was inventive and useful -- went from scarf to hood.

All the dresses were one piece dresses that appeared to look like two. (I love this by the way, says Meg) This makes for a super easy outfit. Easy wear!

Meg and I had a blast at the show and really enjoy chatting up local gallery owners and artists afterward at the WE Gallery. Akron's got something special here with so many young, talented and innovative artists of varying types. Make sure you get out there and support them! :-)