by Beth Hammarlund
In the four years that it’s been open (has it really only been four years?), Blacklist Vintage has established itself as one of the most charming shops in the Twin Cities. Of course, this is mostly due to its whimsical, thoughtfully curated inventory, but it’s also because proprietor Vanessa Messersmith has chosen to take her business a step further by hosting Minneapolis-St. Paul Fashion Week events that highlight her unique eye for and appreciation of historical fashion, and that offer a slight change of pace from the standard designer runway and trunk shows that dominate the week.
Look inspired by Vivienne Westwood
Last year, Blacklist presented “Vintage Did It First,” a unique presentation in which current runway trends served as inspiration to style similar looks featuring only vintage clothing. The parallels were uncanny, an engaging reminder that in fashion, what’s old is new, is old, and then is inevitably new again.
Look inspired by Louis Vuitton
This year, Messersmith was at it again, styling ensembles based on current runway looks from major industry players such as Louis Vuitton and Oscar de la Renta, as well as lesser known cult favorites, such as Carven. Particularly strong sartorial creations came from Messersmith’s interpretation of Vivienne Westwood, Ralph Lauren and Carven,
Look inspired by Oscar de la Renta
Even the looks that didn’t involve as much in the way of styling, such as the Victoria Beckham, Alberta Ferretti and Oscar de la Renta-inspired looks, still offered a rare glimpse at the garments and textiles that inspire so many of-the-moment fashions.
Look inspired by Miu Miu
Hair and makeup were styled by the team from HAUS Salon and Blowdry! Blowdry Bar (full disclosure: I work at Blowdry!), and as usual, HAUS creative director Charlie Brackney’s team presented a series of looks that managed to feel both fresh and classic. Gold accents on eyes and lips dressed up what would have otherwise been fairly nude faces, and the elegantly messy hair was both aspirational and accessible.
The only negative to “Vintage Did It First”? The shop’s limited capacity. Guests were packed in like sardines for the runway segment, however, once the show was over and the crowd broke up to mingle and peruse the racks and displays, it was clear that the event is an in-store affair at heart. The solution? Get there early.
All photos by Rhea Pappas for MNfashion
Click HERE for more Minneapolis-St. Paul Fashion Week coverage.
