A few weekends ago, the Gem team took their talents to Cleveland, OH with Allyn modeling and myself (Alexandra Barone) photographing for the release of the Tidal Cool SS16 collection. Fashion might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Rock n’ Roll capital of the World, but on this night there were plenty of vibrant fabrics, daring hairstyles and exotic beauty. The fashion show, benefitting the Cornucopia Inc/Nature’s Bin job training program for adults with disabilities, took place at Lake Affects Studio which was a cool, artistic and rustic place with a full bar, jewelry and makeup stands all hosted by Cleveland Bazaar.
The designer, Andrea Howell, created the Tidal Cool Spring/Summer 2016 Collection Cuba Libre: A Fusion of Fashion, Funk, and Freedom, and that is exactly what it was. Taking a peek behind the scenes one could immediately get a feel for who the artist was and her sense of style. Usually there is a hectic pre-show, but it seemed to be relaxed and fun as the models were getting their hair crimped and braided and their make-up done.
The clothes told a unique story. You could sense the designer was inspired by different cultures, nature and travel. The collection was made up of 25 looks with a variety of capes, dresses, skirts and sportswear. The use of ankara fabric and silk with chunky necklaces and up-dos were the perfect balance of edgy and care-free. Even the men had their moment in the show, while emulating what a true sailor or yacht man would wear. The women’s dresses were exceptionally spectacular with asymmetrical and a-line silhouettes, sweetheart and deep-v necklines attached to halter-tops, flowing skirts and the use of wraps with open backs.
All of the sandals from the show were designed and made by RTD Design Collective. The amazing hair from the runway was done by Karen A Baxter-Feliciano, and the makeup by Grace Dwyer and Shannon T Lawlor.
What truly made this collection was the use of color and prints. Particularly, the trending yellowish/gold color throughout the garments took these looks to another level of fun and exoticness. The unique and unexpected pairing of colors and patterns are what make these garments come to life. One of the most outstanding components of this collection, and of the Tidal Cool brand overall, is how the garments are made for all body types. This is such an important matter in today’s world of beauty and body acceptance, which Howell knocks right out of the ball park. So if you are the type of person who loves color, patterns and are full of life, then Andrea Howell’s Tidal Cool label is the look for you, which can shop here.
Like the stylish and daring Iris Apfel has said in the past, “Downtown, they think they’re stylish, but they all wear black. That’s not really style. That’s a uniform.” With these daring and colorful looks anyone can show off their true style and show the world they are not afraid of taking a risk.
Photos by Alexandra Barone and Patrick Graham.