The dtownMARKET is an artistic community that convenes every last Saturday of the month at Motorco Music Hall in Durham, NC; where local designers, food connoisseurs, and artists gather to advertise their products.   As a collector of vintage clothing, Founder and Creative Director Kala Wolfe became inspired to create a marketplace where entrepreneurs like her could showcase their merchandise.  Kala started thrifting two years ago.  Wolfe owns Retrospective Vintage, a mobile vintage boutique of clothing and accessories that she sells at dtownMARKET, private parties, and trunk sales.  Traveling for her day job gives her the opportunity to acquire unique retro pieces for both men and women.

reFASHIONED 2013 is a platform for local designers in the Triangle, presented by dtownMARKET.  This fashion event is illuminated in the Raleigh-Durham community because of its focus on eco-friendly clothing and supporting small businesses. 

On Friday, January 11th at Motorco Music Hall in Durham, NC, seven local designers show cased their art on the runway.  Each line told its own story that narrated to the audience tales of bohemian, urban, and mod movers and shakers of Raleigh-Durham, NC. 

DeAnna Edwards by ANNA (Anna Edwards) was an eclectic line with floor length gowns, shorts, and accented leggings.   Each look had its own style ranging from hip to glamour.

First Edition (Cady Childs) presented a very feminine and alluring concept.  My favorite look was a deep blue and emerald satin romper.  The long sleeves, cut-out back, and shorts are perfect for night out on the town.

Everyone loves apparel that represents where they are from or what group they belong to.  Runaway Clothes’ line (Gabriel Eng-Goetz) “DURM” that represents Durham, NC is hip, trendy, and urban.  “DURM” has attire for both men and women.  Runaway models walked the runway in crop tops, t-shirts, and fitted caps that illustrated heritage and hip hop roots.  Checkout Runaway Clothes

As I watched the models for designer Belindabilly (Belinda Blakley) pose on the catwalk, my mind thought of the movie Pleasantville.  The hoop skirts and beehive hair updos were absolutely amazing.  Get more of Belindabilly here.

I am a huge thrift shopper, so I really enjoyed the vintage styling of Riverbasin Outfitters (River Takada-Capel).  This eco-friendly designer inspired by music and gypsies brings new life to thrifted items, by remaking them into reflections of present day and past style trends.  Find out more on Riverbasin Outfitters

Life Kit by Life Style Company is more than just a clothing line, it’s a movement.  I was introduced to the line about two years ago.  Life Kit aspires to use accessories and clothing as a resource to generate knowledge and growth in individuals to bring about change in the global community.  Learn how you can become a part of the movement at Life Kit Life Style

Marguerite Blakeney (Jakki Kalogridis) features vibrant and unique designs that could be seen during New York Fashion week.  My favorite piece was an orange and black Convertible Hoodie Dress.  The model started down the runway with the hood over her head, then unzipped the hood at the top and the hood dropped down into a large collar that appeared like an infinity scarf.  See more from Marguerite Blakeney here

reFASHIONED 2013 was an amazing event.  Kala Wolfe and the seven designers proved that you don’t always have to think retail chain when it comes to fashion.  Instead think about local designers and clothing companies’ right here in Raleigh-Durham, NC.  Re-energize your style and invest in the fashion community in which you live by shopping local fashion brands.  Learn more about dtownMARKET  here.     

BRI

Me and Kala Wolfe, Founder and Creative Director dtownMARKET