Caitlin Anderson
Glamorous Cambria quartz decor and gleaming glass structures were the perfect match to the elegant evening-wear looks that graced Fashion After Dark on August 22. The awe-worthy setting in downtown Minneapolis’ Cambria Gallery helped to highlight the ready-to-wear looks featuring pieces from Saks Off Fifth Ave. Presented by Brand Experience, the Fashion After Dark event was meant to create a synergy between local artists, brands, entrepreneurs, designers, and more while benefitting MATTER, a nonprofit that strives to remove barriers in sustaining a healthy life throughout the world.
The event had a cocktail-hour vibe broken up by two mini fashion shows styled by Samuel Polley, a freelance stylist who often works with Brand Experience. For both, Polley went with an array of neutrals with pops of striking, warm hues, and textures like faux fur and satin struck the balance between runway looks and everyday wear. The looks were carefully constructed, from head-to-toe: Attention to detail was especially given to the models’ hair, with some rocking neat braids and some sporting zigzagged up-dos to add flair to each of the outfits. And the makeup, too—bold eyeshadows helped guests to focus not just on the dress, but also the model in it.
The opportunities for interaction during the event held it together and ultimately, made it a success. Guests mingled the entire night, adding to the sense that this event was not just a showcase for fashion but also a place where art professionals could come to connect. Not only this, but after coming to the stage for a bit, the models walked around to talk with guests and let them get a closer look at the garments. This fashion event provided guests with an immersive experience, complete with hors d’oeuvres, drinks, networking opportunities, music, and fashion for a surprisingly low-key yet appealing time.
