On Feb 28th this year we were the personal stylists for the 2nd year in a row for Planned Parenthood's annual event, Ready or Hot. I can't tell you enough that this is one of the best events we've been able to be a part of. Not only is it fun, but we meet so many wonderful people in the community and it's so gratifying to be a part of an organization that helps patients and makes a difference.
What is Ready or Hot
If you aren't familiar with Ready or Hot:
"It's a radically inclusive, body-positive fashion show celebrating bold self-expression, the beauty and power of our community, and the vital work of Planned Parenthood North Central States.
This is not your traditional runway show. Ready or Hot models are people of all shapes, sizes, ages, genders, and races who are doing cool things in the Twin Cities. They represent the diverse beauty, passion, and dedication for our community and reproductive freedom."
(from readyorhot.org website)
As personal stylists, our job is to ensure our clients look and feel great while also showcasing who they are as a person. We met with each community model and not only got to know them personally, but we also honed in how THEY WANTED to feel on the runway. Some of them used adjectives like "comfy and cozy, but elevated" while some models gave us a celebrity that they were inspired by - Stevie Nicks was a popular one this year while last year was Harry Styles. Using our creativity to bring their vision to life is beyond fun and can sometimes be a challenge, but in a good way! It keeps us on our toes 😉
Fashion Show Looks From Ready or Hot 2024
All of the following looks are from the fashion show and for sale. I highly suggest that you take the time to check out these local designers and boutiques and support their small businesses❤️ The models pictured are also people who are within the Twin Cities community and as Planned Parenthood said, "are doing cool things!" So let's start the slideshow with Minnesota's very own, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan!
Condom Couture Fashion Show Looks From Ready or Hot 2024
Every year, there is a handpicked local Minneapolis designer who creates 3-5 fashion show looks out of, you guessed it - CONDOMS! Unused, of course 😉 This year I handpicked upcycler, RETHINK by Kristen McCoy!
Shop Local Minneapolis Designers & Boutiques
If you would like to shop any of these Minneapolis designers and boutiques, you can learn more about them below:
Minneapolis Hair & Makeup Artists
I also have to give a shoutout to the talented hair and makeup artists that made our vision really come all together:
Minneapolis Photographers
Lastly, shout out to the photographers who took these photos:
Ashley Helen Designs (photo of Ash)
If you would like to donate to Planned Parenthood North Central States, you can do so via the link below:
And lastly, if you like shopping local, I suggest subscribing to my non-spammy newsletter below because there are a few things a brewin! In the meantime, if you love the looks from Jenny in the City, use the code MHSTYLE10 to get 10% off your purchase (no, I'm nto day this and yes, I love her clothes. I only promote things that I like myself).
Until then,
Melissa
As always,
And of course, don't forget to visit the rest of my blog posts!