Fashion X Austin Brunch

Here are some highlights from my experience at the Fashion x Austin Brunch at Michell Gold + Bob Williams at the Northside Domain.

I was so excited when I got asked to work with Fashion x Austin again. I had an amazing experience as an intern and I couldn’t wait to be a part Austin Fashion week. The morning started very early for me, I had to set my alarm for 5 am to make sure I was at the Domain, the center of Austin shopping,  at 7:15 am. After arriving early at Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams, I anxiously walked in to meet the other volunteers. Most of the other volunteers have worked at Fashion x Austin events before, so they were more than willing to help me with any questions had. During our down time, I got to know the volunteers on a more personal level (and I actually had a second to really get to know their names). The two volunteers who really left a lasting imprint on me were two sisters who were two years apart- just like my sister and I are. We bonded over our love for the Kardashians and pop culture and the struggles of sharing clothes with a sister. As we shared our dreams and aspirations, I learned that we all shared the similar dream of living in Los Angeles. We all agreed on the fact that, “we were meant to live there”.

As it came closer to the show, we all went to our designated spots and got to work. My job was a greeter and I worked alongside another blogger. When the guests arrived we would greet them and direct them to check in, and once they were around the corner we would gush over how much we loved their shoes or what a pretty shade of blue they were wearing. To sum things up, I was in heaven.  I loved being in a place full of people who embrace their style and individuality and are not afraid to stand out.

When it was time for the show to begin, the guests took their seats and began their brunch while listening to speakers. First to speak was Matt Swinney, the founder of Fashion x Austin. Looking as stylish as always, especially in his red snake print Gucci shoes, he introduced the guest of honor Ava Late. Ava Late is very involved in the community, co-owner of Late European, and a Fashion Icon. For over 30 years she has been a Media Spokesperson for companies such as BMW and MINI of Austin. She is on the board for Ballet Austin, Alzheimer’s Texas, Capital of Texas Alzheimer’s Association, Helping Hand for Children, and the UT Austin Development Board. Ava Late is also the chairman and co-founder of the Darell K. Royal Research Fund for Alzheimer’s Disease. It was such a privilege to be involved in an event honoring Ava Late and those associated with her. She has impacted Austin tremendously and is truly an inspiration to all. On top of her philanthropic deeds, her fashion sense is impeccable. It was only fitting that she was honored with a fashion show.

The fashion show was a casual and interactive show. Guests could chat and eat their brunch, but they could also chat with the models and ask them questions about what they were wearing. All of the stores featured were from the Northside Domain. The stores in the show were: Kittsona, Saint Bernard, Joie, Scout and Molly’s, and Raven and Lily. I definitely recommend heading to the Northside Domain for your summer fashion, there were tons of pieces that I wanted to buy that instant.

Overall, my experience with Fashion x Austin was something I will never forget. I am so thankful I got an opportunity to be a part of a show and also see what goes on behind the scenes. It was amazing to be surrounded by such driven, intelligent, and stylish women. They all made running around in heels look easy (I wore tiny heels and my feet were KILLING me).  I hope to be as well-rounded as those women as I venture into adulthood. I am praying I get the opportunity to work at Fashion x Austin again, and I am so thankful to my mentor, Kylie Bollwitt, who made it all possible.

-E