Snag wearable art from around world at textile show
By Paula Rath
Advertiser Staff Writer
Today and tomorrow are the final days of the Textile Society of America's biennial symposium in Honolulu. In addition to events at the Sheraton Waikiki, there are 29 exhibits in galleries and museums all over O'ahu. From Hawaiian quilts and kapa to new works by leading contemporary fiber artists to treasures from China and Southeast Asia, Honolulu arts organizations are reaching deep into their textile closets and mounting fabulous textile exhibitions.
Not to be missed is the Textile Marketplace, where wearable art from all over the world will be sold from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today at the Sheraton Waikiki.
Another special treat is a visit from master carpet weaver Ayoub Khan from Agra, India, home of the Taj Mahal. He will be in residence at the East-West Center Gallery through today only. The gallery's "Field of Flowers: Mughal Carpets and Treasures" exhibit will be up through Dec. 31.
There are dozens of events surrounding the symposium that culminate this weekend. Many exhibits will continue for several weeks or even months. For more information, visit www.textilesociety.org.
NEIMAN LOVES HAWAI'I
Neiman Marcus celebrated its 10th anniversary in Honolulu last week with a fabulous show of fall fashions. The runway selections were carefully edited for a Hawai'i audience — no tweeds or outerwear, thank you very much.
The unusual combinations of color and texture stood out most. Bright floral prints were paired with buttery leathers. Brown was mixed with charcoal and a pop of lime green. Chocolate and navy looked fresh for fall, as did espresso with taupe. A hot-pink, satin sculpted dress with a leopard fitted jacket was titillating.
Statement shoes were paired with nearly every ensemble. Prada ruffled leather pumps were a standout, but booties, stilettos and sculptural sandals for evening also were exciting.
Hemlines for the special-occasion looks offered many choices, from above the knee to elegant trains; it's a great year for women to choose the length that best suits their proportions. Bias cuts for maximum movement and jewel tones are evening's haute looks. There were wearable styles at every length and even some sleeves for the woman who doesn't like to bare her arms.
The hottest accessory on the runway? Big, blingy earrings.
For those who can't afford a new frock, a pair of standout hose can make a look fresh. Look for texture or interesting opaque colors, especially purple.
Neiman Marcus has proven responsive to its local customers. Women were taking notes on what they wanted to try on after the show.
IN STYLE LINGERIE EVENT
In Style magazine has a message for you: Don't fall out of fashion because you're wearing the wrong bra with that cute knit dress or sassy T-shirt. Lumps and bumps are never in fashion.
That's why the mag has paired up with Macy's to bring Honolulu women Calvin Klein's Seductive Comfort collection of bras. From 2 to 4 p.m. tomorrow in Macy's Ala Moana there will be personalized fittings, refreshments and a complimentary astrological-style forecast. With a purchase of $75 or more from Calvin Klein Intimates, shoppers will also receive a copy of In Style's book, "Style 101."
To RSVP: 945-6427 or MacysEventsHI@macys.com.
MEN'S PASSION FASHION
Men's fashion has definitely heated up for fall, as noted in "Fashion Rocks," at the Emmy awards and in other eponymous media. Honolulu Design Center is planning a late-night celebration with "Men's Passion Fashion" from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. today. The runway will feature fashions from nprototype, Blue Buddha, Linea and Hot Ties. DJ Creed Chameleon of Siq Records and DJ Antz will spin, while live music will be provided by Kaimi. No cover charge. Information: Call Joett Colgan at 630-9184 or e-mail jcolgan@honoluludesigncenter.com.
BETE BOUTIQUE OPENS
The complete current collection of that kama'aina favorite, the Bete mu'umu'u, is now available from 1 to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at the factory showroom at 1034 Queen St., across from Office Depot and Nordstrom Rack. Appointments can also be made for other times by calling 591-9449.
Reach Paula Rath at paularath@aol.com.