The Mixson t-shirts were just a part of the fashion extravaganza on Saturday night, and although they didn’t walk the runway, they still flew off the Mixson table. Don’t be surprised if you start seeing them on some of the most fashion-forward people strutting around downtown…

The stereotype of “local” and/or “green” events as small-time, hokey, or exclusively for the hippie folk has largely been put to rest in recent years by the gradual glamorizing of green. Eco-fashion now sells for as much as haute couture–and sometimes IS haute couture–and tons of celebrities have hopped on the green bus (like Natalie Portman with her line of vegan shoes). But for those who still had doubts about the sophistication potential of such events, Saturday night’s Side Show, which showcased local designers and “reborn” clothing, should have laid those doubts to rest permanently. The Side Show was definitely one of the best parties I’ve ever been to, not to mention the very first fashion show of my life.

When I got to 501 King St., which used to be the The English Rose antique store, at 7:50 or so, the lines (one to buy tickets, one for people already with tickets) were HUGE. Once they opened the doors, I walked into a big, open space with a table of OM Catering’s incredible vegan food and Sugar Bakeshop sweets to my left, a table full of free Mixson t-shirts and info up ahead, DJs on a stage to my right, and huge screens up on all four walls. The screens were awesome–Tiffany, who’s one of the marketing people I work with, and I were big fans of the dancing Lego people. Getting to hang out in the VIP area was totally new for me–and, I’m kind of sad to say, something I could get used to.

The fashion show started around 9:30, with all kinds of beautiful models and clothing. The place was absolutely packed, so we were very lucky to get a place right at the side of the runway. Global Awakening was one of my favorites, with its enthusiastic models and comfy-looking, stylish dresses and pants. The hula-hooping girl was definitely a highlight, even though the hoop hit one guy’s camera right in the lens. But then, that could be a great action shot.

One of the best things about the night was the variety of people who came out to support local and sustainable food, clothing, and development. We are all so happy that Mixson could sponsor this kind of event–massive thanks are due to Ambergre Sloan, of Charleston’s Most Unique, for making The Side Show the coolest thing happening on Saturday night!

For an incredible video by Heilig Multimedia Design, click here.

For photographs of the event by Kevin Hoth, click here.

Filed under: Events, I'On Group, Mixson, Videos & Photos on April 1st, 2008