RIVER CITY FASHION

VCU Becoming: Fashion Show Review​

If there’s one thing VCU has in abundance, its beautiful and talented students. This fact was best on display at this week’s Homecoming fashion show, “Becoming”. Helmed by VCU organization Heels Inc, this show was a vibrant display of fashion and culture in the VCU and greater Richmond communities.

Last Minute Valentine’s Day Outfits For Any Occasion​

Last Minute Valentine’s Day Outfits For Any Occasion By: Caitlin Thompson Love is in the air this Valentine’s! Whether you are staying in or going out this Valentine’s day, it’s the perfect excuse to dress up. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, we have curated cupid-approved last-minute Valentine’s day looks. Kate is making a statement in her lipstick kissed white blouse. She paired the blouse with fuchsia pants and light pink pumps. Sticking with minimal makeup and a pink lipstick completes this adorable look.  This Valentine’s Madelyn wants to be bold. She is styled in an oversized white shirt with an equally oversized red leather jacket. To keep a romantic feel she added white lace tights and red heels. We all love to hear drama that isn’t our own and Dyanna is definitely receiving interesting info this Galentine’s. In her pursuit to be in the know Dyanna is styled in a mouth graphic tee and a cardigan with the collar and cuffs in a fluffy fur. The bright red pumps with ruffle socks and black mini skirt tie the look together.  Keeping it classy Kate is styled in a minimalistic black dress with pink piping at the top. Paired with pink pumps and big pearl bracelet.  Choosing the cutesy route, Madelyn is styled in an adorable pink bear sweater with ribbon bows along the sleeves. Paired with a white skirt, lace tights, and leg warmers gives her an angelic feeling.  Spending Valentine’s at home by yourself can be so freeing. Indulge yourself in all of your favorite things like chocolate or even Sex in the City.  Having a fun night in with friends is always a good option for Valentine’s. Wear your cutest and softest pajamas and maybe even have a heart pillow fight. Photographer: Carolina Gomez Stylist: Sydney Robinson Models: Madelyn Carter, Dyanna Gamarro, & Kate Gaudio Editor in Chief: Caitlin Thompson Creative Director: Carolina Gomez Fashion Director: Madden Cook

Transitional Fall Must-Have’s

Transitional Fall Must-Have’s By: Bria Roberts November 2, 2022 Fall has always been a favorite season for many reasons, one being the endless possibilities of new and innovative Fall fashion fits it has to offer. Autumn sets the tone for stylistic trends in the new school year and incorporates clothing pieces from each season.    So how do you create the perfect transitional fall fashion outfit?  Here are some tips! When choosing what to wear at this time of year, keep in mind that the shifting autumnal weather and mood allow for the most versatility and exploration in styling. Fall is all about comfort, bring some of your favorite comforting Summer items like a breezy skirt or a playful tank. Everyone has these fashion basics in their wardrobe that can easily be buildable for those cooler Fall days.  Swapping your colorful platform sandals for comfy furry boots or darker-toned platform shoes are easy ways to start incorporating fall trends into your wardrobe, as well as incorporating textured pieces into your outfits, like faux leather and fuzzy accents.  Another tip is when in doubt, layer it out. Some of our favorite layering pieces this season are chunky, knit cardigans and cozy leg warmers. Accessories are also another essential part of any outfit. Opting for more elegant and classic jewelry, like pearls and gold accents can completely change the vibe of any outfit.  When all else fails, denim and earth tones are the go-to transitional fall wardrobe essentials. These stylistic factors never go out of style and are easy communicators of incoming colder weather and comfy vibes.  Fall fashion is all about experimentation. Make sure that whatever you wear is an extension of your personal style that makes you feel confident and ready to take on the day.  Editor in Chief: Caitlin Thompson Creative Director: Carolina Gomez Fashion Director: Madden Cook Photographer: Mary Rushforth Stylist: Sydney Robinson Models: Jada King, Madelyn Carter, & Maddie Martin Follow us on Instagram!

Sustainability Spotlight: Kotn – For Lasting Ways of Life

Kotn has comfort and practical use in mind when creating all of their designs. They want to create clothes that let customers buy less and enjoy more. Kotn has a variety of products including womenswear, menswear, accessories, and home styles; all of which can transform any wardrobe and home into a sustainable, minimalist one. Kotn’s promise of sustainably made and sourced clothing does not mean they compromise on quality. Kotn sources their cotton from Portugal and Egypt from family-run farms to get the best quality fibres. Kotn also works directly with the family-run farms to ensure the workers are receiving above fair pay and constant safe working conditions. When looking for sustainably made stylish and quality clothing look no further than Kotn.  

Top 5 Looks From the 94th Oscars Academy Awards

Jada Pinkett Smith: Jada Pinkett Smith showed up and showed out in this gorgeous emerald green haute couture gown by Jean Paul Gaultier and stunning Jimmy Choo pumps. This particular dress was made by Belgian designer Glenn Martens for the Jean Paul Gaultier Spring/Summer 2022 collection. The look features a ruched zip-up bodice, fitted to Smith perfectly, leading into a deep sea of green ruffles that engulfed the skirt. The vibrant green platforms compliment the gown perfectly, along with the simple jewelry and makeup to add touches of femininity to the bold energy of the dress. This gown definitely left a powerful statement, complimenting her Oscar award-winning husband’s charcoal black suit. Lily James: Channeling the bombshell energy from her role as Pamela Anderson, the Pam & Tommy actress Lily James graced the Oscars red carpet in this seductive yet elegant pink Atelier Versace dress from their Autumn/Winter 2021 couture collection. The cotton candy-colored dress was adorned with embroidery and lace and featured a high-thigh slit that led into a frothy fairytale skirt. James is known to draw style inspiration from her roles; this look is no exception as she utilizes the oozing glamor and sexiness of the Versace brand to pay homage to the alluring Pamela Anderson. Demi Singleton: Demi Singleton arrived at her first Oscars in this youthful yet classic lavender gown from Miu Miu. The King Richards actress, who is only fifteen years old, wanted this look to symbolize a new beginning for her as an actress. The strapless, elegant dress is simple and age-appropriate in its silhouette, while also fun and fashionable with its jewel appliques and soothing color. Through this look and her role as the iconic Serena Williams in King Richard, Singleton wanted to inspire all little girls who look like her to follow their dreams.  Kodi Smit-McPhee: Aiming for a look that was formal, beautiful, and daring, The Power of the Dog actor Kodi Smit-McPhee sported a monochromatic baby blue Bottega Veneta suit with matching blue booties at the 2022 academy award show. Smit-McPhee wanted to reference the Oscar-nominated movie he was in by telling a story through his outfit. He opted to steer away from the stagnant black and white suit to solidify his spot as one of the up-and-coming menswear style icons. This intricate look was amplified with the addition of the luxurious Cartier diamond watch he sported on his wrist. Renate Reinsve: Renate Reinsve, the breakout star from the critically acclaimed film The Worst Person in the World, walked the 2022 Oscars red carpet in this unique and daring Louis Vuitton Spring 2022 black and nude dress. The classic gown utilized various design elements to portray a very modern and edgy vibe, definitely casting Reinsve as someone to look out for in the fashion world. This effortless look was complete with the addition of a Louis Vuitton necklace and a bold red lip. Written by: Bria Roberts

A Galentine's Day to Remember at Mod & Soul

Story by   Estelle Avbuere Maybe you know Mod & Soul as a stylish, upscale Richmond-based and online boutique. Or, maybe you know the store for its trendy, boho-influenced pieces and contemporary, delicate jewelry. What you might not know is that Mod & Soul can also throw gorgeous events! They proved it when they threw their first annual Galentine’s Day event last Thursday night. This event was complete with colorful decorations, delicious deserts, a photo station, fun giveaways, and lovely (not to mention stylish!) women. One of the best parts was the opportunity to be styled by co-hosts, fashion bloggers and stylists, Zumreta of of Bloom with Zum Bloom with Zum and Shanna of Me and Minnie Me and Minnie check out the post right here . The event kicked off at 6:30 pm – the perfect time for a stylish soiree if you ask us. Upon entering, one could see the fabulous, fashion-filled event was already underway. Pink lights were strung from the ceiling, red and pink balloons floated about, and the clothes, clothes, well they looked as beautiful as ever. Sparkly gold fabric hung on the far wall as a background for “gals” and their friends to get their pictures taken. The set-up included fun props, like X and O balloons, while photographer, Juliet Bryant , clad in the cutest denim overall dress snapped away. The center table was decorated with flowers, candles, sparkly hearts on sticks, and delightful treats (including PINK popcorn!). Both the co-hosts and the Mod & Soul sales associates were quick to give you a smile, ask how you were doing, and style you in the perfect look for the night. Women in all sorts of chic outfits were scattered around, sipping their drinks and chatting brightly. Some eagerly searched for the perfect blouses or dresses, excitedly waiting to try them on, while others conversed with new friends. The whole place was abuzz with the energy of these lovely ladies. It was clearly going to be a memorable Galentine’s event! Zumreta , writer of the blog Bloom with Zum Bloom with Zum , looked lovely in her statement red wrap dress and velvet (obviously from Mod & Sou l) , blush heels. While Shanna writer of Me and Minnie Me and Minnie , wore a ruffle-detailed fuchsia blouse tucked into cropped, distressed jeans and gold heels – chic as ever. Both ladies were the perfect co-hosts, as they went around smiling, laughing, greeting people, styling outfits, encouraging every woman, and, like any good blogger, updating their Instagram stories. By the end of the night, we left with new friends, pretty purchases, style inspiration and a love for who we are: strong, empowered women who are free to encourage each other. Overall, the evening was absolutely beautiful. This is not only because of the amazing clothes, shoes, and jewelry, the talented stylists, or the adorable place that is Mod & Soul, but also because it was a celebration of women and our friendships with each other. During this event, Mod & Soul provided a space where girls could come together, meet other women, share stories, and inspire each other’s looks. In fact, this was an opportunity for women to simply inspire each other. And they used fashion to do it. We’re here for that. We are so grateful to Mod & Soul, Shanna, and Zumreta for being here for that as well!

Fantastic Pink Plastic

web This through-line was more than evident as beautiful people in nearly every shape, size and skin tone strutted around the DC gallery dressed to impress. Check out some of our favorite looks: