text and photographs by Chris Seward

When seven local fashion designers got together May 29 for Redress Raleigh’s eco-friendly fashion show, “green” was not the only color on display. The clothing and jewelry may have been crafted from environmentally conscious materials, but the designs were strictly high fashion. Models whirled and twirled in an array of colors, strode down the runway, and took pictures of the photographers; real women (not stick-figure models) wore stone-studded jewelry and blew kisses to the crowd; a necklace made of chicken bones hung around the neck of a studly hippie male model. “I ate all those drumsticks myself,” said designer Rock Kershaw with a twinge of pride and a twinkle in his eye.

Founded in 2008, Redress Raleigh is headed by Beth Stewart, Mor Aframian, and Jamie Scott. Their goal: “To be a catalyst for change within the mainstream fashion and textiles industry, making it more environmentally and socially aware.”

For more information: redressraleigh.com.

REDRESS RALEIGH 2015 DESIGNERS

1. Artemis Clothing Co. – Allison Bowles, designer

2. Wired, Twisted, and Stoned Jewelry –
Elizabeth Strugatz, designer

3. Press Ink – Chad Groves, designer

4. Manjri Lall Creations – Manjri Lall, designer

5. Rock Kershaw Necklaces and Maria Juri Clothing – Rock Kershaw, necklace designer and Maria Juri, clothing designer

6. Leopold Designs – Kim Kirchstein, designer

7. Pretty Birdie Co. – Stephanie Trippe, designer