Just announced: Avoid the Grey, L'école de la mode, Sol Inspirations

[Originally posted at Vita.mn]

It may still be December, but spring fashion shows are already being announced.

[Inspiration image for "Avoid the Grey"]

On January 29, local boutique Cliché will bring back its annual late-winter show, "Avoid the Grey." It gives local designers the chance to debut their spring lines early, but also expect some designs that should get Minnesotans through the chilly coming months in style. This year's theme is "jailhouse rock," with retro mugshots serving as styling inspiration. The 40-plus clothing and accessory designers featured include Maritza Ramirez, Needle & Black by Kerry Riley, Ivan Idland and Jenny Carle. (Time & ticket cost TBA. Old Arizona Theater, 2821 Nicollet Ave., Mpls. More info at clichempls.blogspot.com.)

[Blasphemina's Closet; Photo courtesy Minneapolis Institute of Arts]

Minnesota-based neo-Victorian line Blasphemina's Closet has gotten national attention for its exquisitely-crafted, ruffled confections. On March 3, designer Samantha Rei will be presenting her first solo show, "L'école de la mode," featuring her full spring 2011 collection. The runway show will be presented to a soundtrack by local folk-goth rock duo Skittish. Blasphemina's Closet look books will be for sale, with proceeds going to the Civil Society. (9 p.m. $10. 18-plus. Hell's Kitchen, 80 9th St S., Mpls. More info at Facebook)

[Sol Inspirations Promo Photo Courtesy Ignite Models]

On April 23, MNfashion Week gets extended with the Sol Inspirations Eco Fashion Gala & Fundraiser. The highlight of the show from the minds of Ignite Models Inc. should be the eco-friendly fashion design competition, with a $5,000 grand prize. Designers can enter now by visiting sol-inspirations.org (with a February 1 deadline). It will also include a silent auction, green vendors, live music and an eco-fashion show debuting the finalists of the competition. Proceeds benefit the Minnesota Renewable Energy Society and The Grameen Foundation. (Doors at 7 p.m. $35 general admission, $75 VIP (reserved seating). The Depot, 225 3rd Ave. S., Minneapolis. sol-inspirations.org)

Voltage: Fashion Amplified was announced a couple of months ago, taking place April 15 at First Avenue. Runway designers include Raul Osorio, Danielle Everine, Max Lohrbach, Ivan Idland, Frances Zerr, Terri Martin, Kathryn V., Sarah M. Holm, Rachel Blomgren, and Tim & Thom, with bands including Phantom Tails, Me and My Arrow, Fort Wilson Riot, Communist Daughter, and Pink Mink. Spring 2011 MNfashion Week will officially take place April 10-16, though events throughout the month of April should be expected. Details have yet to be announced, but watch mnfashion.org for updates.