savannahred curvy couture | size 12 & up

Why be inspired, not influenced?

2011-11-26T17:00:00.000-08:00

As you may have read, savannahred's slogan is "be inspired, not influenced." It sounds pretty catchy, but what does that really mean from savannahred's standpoint?

First, why "not influenced"? While the word "influence" can mean something positive, it can have a negative connotation as well. Being "under the influence" of something/someone usually means a person is up to no good, right? When my mom got mad at me in high school for "faking sick" a lot my junior year (ok, I was only kind of sick - Who really wanted to go to high school anyway? Right?!), she would say, "This is Kelsey's influence, isn't it?!" (Poor Kelsey. :-/) By saying, "be inspired, not influenced," I'm challenging those who read my slogan to pursue only something positive and to think about what may simply inspire them.

Inspiration is an incredible word, and for someone like me who has a tendency to focus on syntax, "inspire" is a word of power. It's a word of action and good things! I also believe that each person builds on ideas from others throughout their creative processes, which shares our hearts and minds, and inspiration is the main component of that. With "be inspired," I'm challenging those who read my slogan to really dig deeper.

Speaking of inspiration, I've been meaning to share this. Somehow this awesome lady, Courtney, got inspired by yours truly in a big, big way! To sum it up, this lady made a concrete mosaic and fabric replica of savannahred's Love Buttons dress and put it in an art show! How freakin' cool is that?! When I saw it, I cried. (It was also next to a giant painting of Jimi Hendrix, so there was a little more lovin' there on the side, too.) Courtney is one sweet, sweet, curvy lady, and every time I see her, my heart jumps with glee! She works for Sublime Stitching (where this blog post lives) and she is all kinds of incredible. How she was inspired by me, I'm not sure, but I've been touched by this amazing display of talent and love. Thank you, Courtney. Your work means more to me than you know!

On a personal note (not that this blog is anything BUT personal! Dear Diary...), the next collection I am working on is grabbing inspiration from so many aspects of my life! You'll hear all about Native Swing Fall 2012 soon enough - don't worry! :)

There will be another update soon, so I won't divulge anymore. Hope your Thanksgiving was amazing and filled with love and laughter!

<3.

2 years old - We're going places!

2011-09-19T17:32:00.000-07:00

Well, gorgeous, savannahred curvy couture celebrated her 2nd birthday this past Friday! It has been an incredible 2 years, I must say. A lot of growth, a lot of sweat, a lot of tears, and an ABUNDANCE of love has transpired. I simply cannot wait to see where she's off to now! She really feels unstoppable. Trust me - I know her! ;)

But really, I just want to say thank you to all of the people who have been apart of this experience with me since the beginning and along the way. I've worked with some of the most talented photographers, artists, models, and other designers in the industry and outside of the industry. All of these people have given me a chance by supporting me, upholding who I am and my ideals, and have encouraged me to take this baby to the top - and that's exactly where we're going.

I've said it before and I will repeat it now - savannahred is more than just a clothing company, and lots of people are starting to catch on to that idea. Each day that I am able to get behind a sewing machine is a dream come true because I am able to provide a beautiful woman with something to adorn her gorgeous body and make her feel like royalty so that she can love herself and spread that love to others. Love is a beautiful gift that multiplies, and when we enable others to see that love within themselves, it becomes richer, deeper, and purer, and it can only travel outward. The love that I have for my design company, for my amazing customers/friends, for the world that I believe can see beauty in everyone one day, is literally stitched into every garment (which is why I prefer to use the term "love-crafted"). And from every custom order and every garment sold off the rack, I have been infused with a piece of each woman's heart as I carry it with me along with their stories, their hopes, and their triumphs. As e e cummings says, "i carry your heart with me (i carry it in my heart)."

We're going places. In fact, this month, we're going to the Ruby Room Fashion Show in Seattle to spread some savannahred love butta. But don't worry, Austin/TX people - we're letting you see what's going out before it hops on the plane. Come to the Fabricker's Fashion Apparel Fabric Inventory Presale Event the night before we depart, Sept. 28! We've also got big plans for next year, so hold tight. There's a Kickstarter project coming to you soon - and a fundraising party to boot!

Thank you for letting me jump right in and start a fashion love riot with savannahred. Thank you for being there on the runway, alongside the runway, and/or backstage at the runway. Thank you for your encouragement when, as in any business old and new, there have been days when I wasn't sure I was going to make it. Thank you for your patronage, your Facebook likes, your newsletter sign-ups, your comments, and your enthusiasm. Thank you for making my job the best job on the planet, working for the most beautiful people on the planet.

Most of all, thank you for YOUR love - your beautiful, organic, made-only-by-you love that really keeps the sewing machine in my little heart running nonstop.

And to my sweet savannahred, happy little birthday to you!

<3.

Anslee

photo by Annie Ray

makeup by Kandy Glass with facekandy

jewelry by Jillian Simmang with Simmang Design

hat by Laura del Villaggio with Milli Starr

clothing by ... well, you know who ;)

You're totally invited!

2011-04-12T15:07:00.001-07:00

Hey, ladies! I know I should have updated a lot more since my last post (SORRRYYYY!!!) but I wanted to invite you to something really fun and awesomely cool that you don't want to miss!

What: Girl Party!

Who: Girls only! {savannahred}

When: Saturday, April 23 @ 6:30pm

Where: Cypress Vanguard courtyard @ 606 E 3rd St., Austin, TX 78701

What's up?!: Come one lady, come all ladies - this is a Girl Party with {savannahred}!

There will be food, fun jams, vodka + mixers, and minglings galore!

Take the night off and hang out with {savannahred} in the courtyard at Cypress Vanguard. You deserve a low key, fun time!

Photo taken by Todd White

Model is Spruce Dickerson

Wanna come?: RSVP here - http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=138501766221612

Our Journey Together

2010-12-04T09:09:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, Sunday, December 5th, just days before my 25th celebration of life, my very own boutique opens in the Cypress Vanguard fashion house along with those of 8 other incredibly talented, beautiful designers. It goes without saying that this is huge.

Not only is it a large deal to me, personally, as it signifies that I am now an adult - officially - but in the world of fashion, it is a great thing for ladies who don't necessarily fit the mold. I am so excited to be able to celebrate this as part of my adventure! Three and a half years ago, I had no idea I would be sitting here now, dreaming about my studio space and the gorgeous ladies I get to create for every single day. (I didn't even know how to sew then!) This is soon to be my reality, a storefront in downtown Austin. How am I so lucky?

I am so grateful for this opportunity, given to me by my friend and peer Megan Summerville, who is not just one of the sweetest ladies on the planet, she is one of the most confident women I know and her ability to make the finest crafted lingerie is extraordinary. I get to work beside her every day, and hopefully, channel her wisdom and strength.

So! This is a thank you to all of the love, excitement, and support I've had over the past few years, and also to all of the No's I've heard, the heartbreaks, the slander, and the disdain along the way. All of it has come to this point, and I'm very fortunate to say that it has made me and not broken me.

Miss curvy, are you ready to play with savannahred? Come on down to 606 E. 3rd St. beginning tomorrow at 11 am and we can start our journey together or maybe even continue the beautiful thing that we already have.

Inspired,

Anslee / savannahred

Honest Hopes

2010-06-28T10:14:00.000-07:00

A little bit of housekeeping to kick us off:

+New website! Heyyyy, go check it out! http://savannahredislove.com/ is up and running so take a look and tell me what you think, lovelies!
+Are you on Facebook? Be a fan of savannahred! Like us here.
+Do you love savannahred a whole bunch? If so, please vote for savannahred to win a grant! Or maybe even 2! You can leave some love at this site and you'll be loved forever by yours truly until the end of time.

In the past few months, there have been a lot of photo shoots and contests and reality tv show applications, and it's just been a whirlwind of craziness! In the midst of all of this, I can't help but be reminded of the people who are in my life right now and how much they mean to me, especially when they support what I'm doing.

I started savannahred as a way to open people's eyes to what beauty, art, fashion, and self-expression are all about. I started out as a photographer and I grew into a clothing designer in the 3 years I've lived in Austin, my favorite city in North America. While it's true that I'm still growing and challenging myself, I'm taking moments to be grateful for the talent and the vision that I have. I've been working overtime on things the past couple of months that I never thought I would, and there are so many people who encourage me to keep going that extra step every day.

My personal and business motto is "Be inspired, not influenced," and I've been met with overwhelmingly positive remarks as to what I am doing and how I am inspiring others with something that makes me feel more alive than ever. I feel like with this business I am able to enable women to feel beautiful and sexy and confident, perhaps even for the first time, and I do it simply with fabric. I care about the environment so much more than I ever did growing up [Read: didn't care at all!], and now I want to build a company that embraces being good to the earth as well as the gorgeous women who wear these dresses. SavannahRed is more than dresses or skirts or whatever fabric is used, it's about a community now that empowers women of all sizes to embrace themselves and be the strong, confident, beautiful women they are. Through this business, my hopes are to unify women of all backgrounds, races, religions, sizes, and strengths, in hopes that we can redefine beauty as being ourselves and not necessarily conforming to a societal viewpoint or ideal.

I feel there is too much stock put into using magic potions or quick fix love spells in the form of products and surgeries and crash diets or crazy pills to make the organic magic inside us become real. What I aim to do with my company is enable curvy ladies, and all ladies, to get back to the core of who they are and see the beauty there. Essentially, it starts with you, not with manufactured magic but your magic, and if you cannot see that for yourself, then I hope you'll take this journey with us.

Love yourself, woman of the earth. No matter how much your belly jiggles, praise it. No matter how much your booty can't fit into those old pants, shake it. No matter if you have cellulite or dimples or rolls or anything labeled as "unsightly" or "ugly", enjoy the body you have for what it is because it's yours and you are, most undoubtedly, gorgeous and worthy of being loved - especially by you.

Austin Fashion Week is so close and I have an excellent team that I am working with to create a look for a beautiful, curvy model. It's going to be very exciting and it's going to take a lot of hard work! I hope you will be there and be just as excited as we will be! Thank you for your support. Thank you for your magic.

<3.
SavannahRed

Confessions of a Curvy Girl Designer ;)

2010-03-27T00:14:00.000-07:00

Thursday. night. was. AWESOME! Dear Lord! I felt like the show lasted 15 seconds because it went by so fast, but there we were, struttin' our stuff. I am so proud of all of my ladies. They really shined that night, and I have received nothing but the best compliments anyone could ever hear. It makes me tear up a little bit, honestly. It's a wonderful feeling!

Overall, it was a really great experience. There are a lot of things that I felt should have been done differently, but as far as this being the producers' first show, I was pretty satisfied! I know they worked so hard on this show, and I hope that they continue doing this because of such a great response it got. It was a sold out show and the bouncers were turning people away at the door. That says something right there.

First off, Barbara Morin is a goddess! The hair and makeup was perfect. I wasn't exactly sure what I wanted, but she dreamed something up based on the clothes and the overall vision I had for the runway, and her execution was flawless. She is wonderful to work with, she can do anything, and her cheerful, positive attitude can make even the craziest person in the room feeling like they have the whole world in the palm of their hand. I could have been that girl the other night. Michelle McClendon did such a wonderful job as well. She worked alongside Barbara and the two made a great team. It wouldn't have gone nearly as well without either one of them. You can find Barbara at Siren's Salon and Michelle at Regency. That's right - Michelle is still learning this stuff and she is already rockin' it out! Be on the lookout for that one.

One of my favorite moments of the night was when two of my friendmodels (These ladies are more than just a model to me!) Polly and Erin saw one of my other friendmodels, Cuesta, who was in the other shows with them. They were so excited to see each other, and it made me so happy! I felt like there was a community built around this company with my friends, and they had such a sweet interaction. They squealed a bit, hugged and kissed each other, caught up on each other's lives, and pumped each other up about the craziness they were about to embark on once again. I really wish I had my camera for that moment.

After the show, 2 of my other ladies told me how this experience really helped them with their self-image, and I couldn't have been happier when they expressed this to me. The main reason I started this clothing company is to provide a way for a gorgeous, plus size woman to not only express herself through her clothing but to make her feel so great she forgets any insecurities. For one, the whole runway experience really made her feel wonderful, even though I know she was nervous. That sweet girl brought a flask of whiskey, ok? I thought that was pretty awesome! ;) (Love you, girl!) Plus, there is always the fear of busting ass on the runway, but I hope that flask took some of the edge off. She did great! And the other lady said the dress was what took her focus off of an area she is a little insecure about. You never would have known, and it made me really happy that a well-fitting dress could make someone forget about an area of her body she finds unflattering. She was absolutely stunning! All of these beautiful ladies made me so proud, and I couldn't have done this show without them.

Seeing all of the outfits put together head to toe as we lined up to go out almost took my breath away. At one point, I said, "You guys are making my dreams come true." Polly said she started tearing up when I said that, and it's true! I had this dream of a line of clothing and it grew into clothing + jewelry + hair pieces, and the looks totally rocked! Jillian Simmang (+ her incredible mother Jean Hays) worked herself to death on the jewelry, and each piece was incredible. She is so talented, and her creative energy + mine became a force to be reckoned with! I wouldn't want to see the outfits without her jewelry on that runway. From earrings to necklaces to corsages, Jill is a super classy bitch who knows how to work it. I am so fortunate to have had the pleasure of working with her and to simply be her friend.

So, thank you, all of my friendmodels who are gorgeous, talented, and so dear to me! Their names are Cuesta Murphy, Erin Hickok, Polly Smith, Dollie Hodges, AnnMarie Wilke, Jillian Simmang, Mindy Sea, and Michelle McClendon. And of course, thank you Barbara Morin for all that you have done for me.

There is a lot of stuff coming up for SavannahRed, so check back soon. Until then, love yourself for who you are, but if you need a little help, you know who to call!

<3.
SavannahRed

Fashion Show Madness!

2010-03-24T19:59:00.001-07:00

Ohhhh my GOODNESS! This month has flown by! It's been so much fun, though, and I am super excited by what is about to go down tomorrow night. I know all of the designers have worked so hard, as have the producers and models and anyone else involved, and I cannot wait to see what goes down the runway.

I have a few more pieces left to "perfect," but all-in-all I feel really great about the entire collection. It definitely helps to have one of my very best friends, Jillian Simmang, design the jewelry for this collection. We have had a blast together, working out all the fun details and feeding off of each other's creative energy. It really will be a fun line to watch! Plus, Jill is a model for this show, too, so we have had an extra fun time.

I've also had such a wonderful time getting to know some of my models! Each moment I get to spend with them is so nice and fun, and I know we are going to have a blast tomorrow night with all the other models and designers.

The hair and makeup for this show is provided by Barbara Morin of Siren's Salon - She came back for more! - and Michelle McClendon, who is also modeling with us.

There are so many talented ladies who have given me their time and energy, and they love me so much - I can feel it every time we get together. I cannot believe I am so fortunate to have such lovely, curvy ladies in my life who want to help me in this great endeavor that I feel so passionate about. It means more to me than anyone could ever know.

Well, I hope to see you there tomorrow night! Here are some details:

Austin Eco Fashion Show 2010
at United States Art Authority beside Spiderhouse
510 W 29th St.
Doors: 7pm
Show: 8pm
Cover: $10
http://www.makesenseofyourworld.net/

Michelle McClendon is pictured in the photo above wearing a piece from the show! Come see it in action for the full effect! Until then, stay gorgeous, baby...

<3.
SavannahRed

Austin Eco-Fashion Show!

2010-03-01T07:44:00.000-08:00

Hey, beautiful people! How are ya?

SavannahRed will be featured in the Austin Eco-Fashion Show on March 25 at the United States Art Authority behind Spiderhouse on 29th St. Guess what - you're totally invited!

The doors open around 7pm and the show will start around 8pm. Tickets are $10 at the door, but only $5 if you purchase through the website for Make Sense of Your World Magazine. That's a pretty sweet little deal there, so go right now and do it!

Just be prepared for SavannahRed to bring a show - we've got a lot of crazy ideas and a whole bunch of fun planned, so come out and support me and other local designers and models in Austin in our endeavor to make fashion a greener place while still looking painstakingly hott!

Hope to see you there, lover!

<3.
SavannahRed

Updates, updates!

2010-02-09T23:05:00.000-08:00

There's a super cool place down on South 1st called Lovely Austin that is now a *proud* consignor of SavannahRed! They have been really enthusiastic about consigning my designs, dresses and hair pieces, so I know this will be a great, local place for me to really get my work out there. (The photo above was lovingly yanked from their website, so enjoy and thank you, Lovely.)

I'll say some more soon, but look for information on Shop Austin 2010 and the Eco Fashion Show in March!

Stay beautiful, gorgeous!

<3.

Hey, Etsy! I got something for ya!

2010-01-12T09:56:00.001-08:00

Good afternoon, beautiful!

I just wanted to let you know that SavannahRed is now listing handmade and upcycled pieces on Etsy! Yay!

You can find these treasures at http://www.etsy.com/shop/savannahred!

So, take a look around and please feel free to give me some feedback. Anything helps and don't be shy! I love constructive criticism. After all, this is my first attempt, so let the good times roll.

Lots on the SavannahRed agenda!

2010-01-08T09:41:00.001-08:00

Here are a few things to look forward to! Get excited!

+photo shoot with Caleb Miller
+A feature in SKORCH Magazine
+A feature in Make SENSE of Your World Magazine
+Eco-Fashion Show: March/April
+Collaborative Fashion Show with Blue Velvet: Spring (potential)

There are a few craft fairs that SavannahRed will be applying for, so stay tuned for those details as well.

Hope your new year is a fabulous! See that gorgeous face of yours soon!

Crafty Business Seminar Thoughts

2010-01-07T21:20:00.001-08:00

Tonight, I went to a Crafty Business Seminar taught by the fantastically lovely Jennifer Perkins of The Naughty Secretary Club. I learned so much valuable information for my business, as well as some notes on perhaps what I could be doing wrong from time to time. (It happens to the best of us!) I really wanted to blog about something I've been thinking a lot about with SavannahRed that she touched on in the very beginning of our class. I think it's important for those who invest in my company to know the heart behind the woman who is whipping these things up.

Mrs. Perkins (who is completely fabulous, by the way) explained in the first few minutes that when you own a crafty business, you must really enjoy what you do. It seems so simple and easy, but this has been on my mind a lot lately as I'm putting in so much time researching, reapproaching, and reorganizing to make this lovechild of mine into something really great. I've gotten down to the Why of it all, and here's what I've come up with.

When I sat myself down and started thinking more about what/who SavannahRed is - the clothing part, at least - I got excited again like I was from the very beginning! Anytime I make myself see what this identity is, I get this feeling that I am meant to do something really great. I get to create something and offer it to the world in the form of a beautiful, lovecrafted, handmade dress that can make someone really happy. How can you go wrong there? Having the ability to create something is such a wonderful gift in this world, and often I take it for granted. Every now and then, I allow myself to get overwhelmed when I think about the process or the time or the little things I have to actually care about, and I think most people do that from time to time. But since there have been all of these changes in my life lately - weight loss, money issues, exercise, lifestyle (in general), relationships - I knew that I needed to change the way I handled SavannahRed, and bring back my passion for what I do that I absolutely love! I love the simple concept of being able to make something, so add to that the fact that I get to make dresses for gorgeous ladies who are a lot like me and very disappointed with most of the clothing options we have available to us. There is a powerful voice in my heart that tells me to never give this up and pour myself into it, even if it's slightly terrifying - but in a good way, of course! I am more than glad to have this drive to do what feels so right for me, and I am eager to see what is about to come my way. New, wonderful experiences are on their way to me. I can feel them. And don't worry, you'll read about it all right here! :)

Stay beautiful!

SavannahRed

Meet Liz & Dave

2009-12-14T08:36:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of photographing a wedding in October, and since I've been antsy to show some of the photos, allow yourself the viewing pleasure of this wonderful couple: Liz Roark & Dave Fisher

East Austin Studio Tour at Space12

2009-11-15T13:01:00.000-08:00

SavannahRed photography is currently exhibiting during the East Austin Studio Tour at Space12. Space12 is located at 3121 E. 12th St. near Airport Blvd. The tour is going on this weekend and next weekend, Nov. 21 - 22, from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and 1 pm to 5 pm on Sunday. You can also stop by Space12 during their operating hours Tuesday through Friday from 10 am to 5 pm. There are over 10 local artists in Space12, so there is a lot to feast your eyes upon! There are some refreshments, too, so stop on by.

"Death to All Ice Cream Trucks: A Fashion Revolt Against All Things Irritating" is happening Wed., Nov. 18, at 7:30 pm at Space12. The show is featuring the environmentally-conscious designs by Melissa Taylor and SavannahRed was asked to join as well. Come check it out! There will be some music, food, and vino in addition to the runway funzies, so be sure to bring your peoples out for a rockin' good time.

Wow. More to share!

2009-10-15T11:18:00.001-07:00

So, not only will SavannahRed be exhibiting photography during the East Austin Studio Tour in November, but there will be another fashion show! Yep - anoooooother fashion show! It will feature mostly the same outfits, but perhaps some new ones.

Mark your calendars! Nov. 18th. Stay tuned for more details.
Send me some inspiration! :)

<3.
SavannahRed

Web Domain | Anne Marie Beard is wonderful!

2009-10-12T13:33:00.000-07:00

Well, I've got news! There's now a web domain for this gal and her business, and that is pretty exciting stuff, I must say. So, let me give you a preview of what is yet to come...

+Website (!!!!!)
+Facebook Page
+Etsy Store
+East Austin Studio Tour (Nov. 14 - 15, 21 - 22) at Space12
+Holiday Bazaar (Dec. 5th) at Space12, too

There is a lot going on right now, so it's a pretty busy time, but I will make sure and give an update whenever possible. Watch out for some emails if you're on the mailing list, too!

Also, check out the blog from awesome Austin designer Anne Marie Beard where she talks about wearing one of the dresses I made for the fashion show! It's pretty fun to read. Thank you, Miss Beard. You are so wonderful to me!

Is it unprofessional to say that I am REALLY FREAKIN' EXCITED?! If so, ooooh well!

Be inspired today. Do something really cool and strange. You can tell them I told you to do it. I don't mind.

SavannahRed Photography | Starbucks!

2009-10-08T18:28:00.000-07:00

Hey there!

Just wanted to let you know that you can certainly check out SavannahRed Photography at 2 Starbucks locations in the Greater Austin area: Bee Caves & 71 and Brodie Oaks off South Lamar.

Go see it! What are you waiting on?! GO!!! :)

Fashion Show Breakdown | Peter Pan Dress

2009-09-30T09:29:00.000-07:00

This dress gets its name from the mock Peter Pan collar applique. It was one of the first dresses I have ever made from when I was taking classes at First Samples last year, and the material is a light blue/teal sateen. I felt that it needed a lot of modification to make it more interesting, so I added the mock collar, sleeves, covered buttons, and a belt. The material for the additions came from some fabric scraps my grandmother gave me. As with many of my grandmother's pieces I have become the humble recipient of, it was apparent that this material was supposed to be a shirt of some sort. I rather like the new use of the fabric instead, don't you?

Miss Erin worked the runway with a lollipop in hand. The shoes are vintage heels that were picked up some time ago at a Goodwill.

This ensemble was purchased at the fashion show. I am so thrilled that it went to a good home!

Down to the wire!

2009-09-15T13:53:00.000-07:00

In 24+ hours, it will be time for the show! I am so excited, but I gotta admit, not everything is ready. I work pretty well under pressure, though, so I know it will all work out.

Last night, the models had a fitting, and I almost cried about 5 times. They were so excited about the show, about being apart of it, and most of all, about the clothes! The level of squealing went to an all-time high once there were outfits being tried on, and I couldn't help but be so thankful for my talent and my vision at that time. It was such an honor to have these ladies feel so great in what was made for them. I know tomorrow night is going to be absolutely magical. I simply cannot wait.

The fashion show has been blogged!

2009-09-11T20:01:00.000-07:00

You know, there are so many wonderful people who are in my life already, and there seems to be this incredible influx of new ones these days that I am so thrilled about.

I cannot even describe how happy this made me when I read it tonight, holding my friend Heather's hand between her and her mother. I read it aloud, naturally. I'm just so touched right now I can't articulate it.

http://annemariebeard.blogspot.com/ - Check it out. Let me know what you think! And again, thank you, Ms. Anne Marie Beard. This is such a sweet moment for me to read your post.

<3.
SavannahRed

Fashion Show | Details

2009-09-08T08:30:00.000-07:00

RetroCurves
a full-figured fashion show featuring SavannahRed
Wednesday, September 16 at Space12
3121 E. 12th st., Austin, TX

Doors open at 7pm. Show starts at 8pm.
$7 at the door {cash preferred, cards accepted}.

Free root beer floats and free drinks!
Stay for the afterparty with DJ Seth Horton.
For more information, call 512.745.7076 or email savannahredphoto@gmail.com.

This show will be streamed live at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/retrocurves.

RetroCurves is the debut fashion show of SavannahRed that is 50's themed and specifically designed for curvy ladies. Please bring your friends and come out in support of designer Anslee Connell in her latest endeavor.

Poster designed by MadRooster: madrooster7@yahoo.com
---------------------------------

Excited?! If only there were words to say. . .

Fashion Show!!!

2009-09-07T15:47:00.000-07:00

Roadhouse Rags

2009-08-31T13:32:00.001-07:00

It also seems that SavannahRed will be doing a test run at Roadhouse Rags on Ben White off of Manchaca. Stay tuned for more details, but let's just say it's got something do with some super cute poodle-esque skirts!

Yay for SavannahRed!

Reid & Natalie

2009-08-31T08:09:00.000-07:00

I had the ultimate privilege of photographing my brother and his fiancee's engagement session while I was in Memphis. This is only one of the photos, but the rest of them are so much fun and they definitely represent the kind of love and relationship these people have with each other. I cannot wait until September 26th! It's going to be so much fun.

Maybe I should tell you some things. . .

2009-08-16T14:56:00.000-07:00

Since I can remember, I have always viewed fashion as a form of self-expression. My mother asked me to put on my clothes for school in the mornings, and I would usually pick out some insane outfit that I absolutely adored. She would be horrified by my selection and tell me to put on something completely different. Every day, she would pick me up from school in a different outfit than what she sent me there wearing until she realized I was putting her clothes on over my clothes. I think she knew that this was going to be an ongoing trend, but I'm not sure she knew how far I would take it.

In fact, when I was in middle school, I went to some strange convention for middle school politics (that's what I referred to it as, anyway), and I really could not care less about the whole thing. I was there to see people. I didn't pay attention to anything that was going on except for the dances because I loved to get out there and show my stuff. (I won competitions. It was a big deal.) There was one particular moment, however, where I did care. They were talking about wearing uniforms in schools and many students argued that uniforms were, in fact, a good idea. I was outraged, and I decided that I would have my voice heard. So, I walked up to the podium with my folder, wearing a stretchy black skirt and something else over it with some super cute heels. I was confident but nervous as some people cheered me on. "Clothing is one of the most noticeable forms of self-expression. Each person has the right to wear what they would like how they see fit. If we limit what someone is able to wear, even at school, he or she may lose a very important voice for who they are. I believe that dress codes should not be so strictly enforced, that uniforms are limiting our freedom to self-expression, and that we should be allowed to represent who we are in a school setting. Thank you." I felt really good about myself then as if I were making progress, but I later realized my efforts were futile.

Middle school was horrible on the self-esteem, and even though I naively kept hoping the upcoming years were going to be different, high school failed me as well. While this was true, I chose to make bold statements with my clothing. I had "Weird Pants Week," consisting of pants made with shiny, colored plastic and leopard prints, and I rocked it. I also had a big, blue fake fur jacket that I would wear with my pants. I had a voice and I wanted to scream with it in every way that I could. I chose fashion every now and then. Sometimes, I felt that fashion chose me because of the lack of artistic outlets in the area where I was from that led me to focus mainly on my garb to be creative and vocal with. Unfortunately, the only plus size options I really had were Lane Bryant and department stores, but I worked with what I could and still managed to feel more like myself in my artistic fibrous creations. I cannot say this is true for other girls in the same situation, and I always had this urge to change that.

I've been larger than the average girl for most of my life. As one could imagine, I was teased for it ruthlessly, and it wasn't until I was in college that I started to accept the way that I look. Looking back at photos from high school, I think to myself, "Why did I hate my appearance so much? I was gorgeous!" This self-loathing was mainly due to comparing myself to the tiny, bone-thin-obsessed girls I went to school with and the attention they received from the opposite sex. Nevermind the fact that the college guys would beg me to call them the minute I turned 18 (I got names and numbers for years down the road - this is not a joke) and gave no thought to my peers' scrawny, frail figures. (Men like curves! Who knew?) This didn't matter to me at that time. The place where I am now is that I realize I am just as gorgeous now as I was then. Sure, a few things have changed, but I can look at myself no matter what and say, "This is who I am, and I love myself for it."

Whenever I started to value who I was, that was when I started making something of myself. I birthed a philosophy that believes that we should focus on our strengths, while minding our weaknesses, because if we see the good in ourselves and foster those things, then we can put them forth in the world to make a difference. If we stop comparing who we are to others and focus on our own positive attributes, we can be able to conquer insecurities and instead begin to help others see that in themselves. Simply put: Love yourself in order to love others. My whole outlook changed and I wanted to inspire other women to be empowered from within. I woke up one day knowing that I could do this by opening the door for self-expression in the form I knew best long ago: fashion.

This is behind the fashion part of SavannahRed. Stay tuned for the vision, but enjoy the journey.

Have fun with your head AND savannared!

2009-07-13T23:03:00.000-07:00

Oh, catchy titles. . . how I adore thee!

Lately, I've been playing a bit with fun things like feathers and flowers and vintage brooches and the sort. They're a lot of fun, actually, and I should be selling them very soon at a wonderful place where I get my hair cut by the fabulous Heather Davis at Salon Sovay. Not only will you see original photographs by yours truly (which have been pimped all around town, but are now making their way to South 1st), you will find these fun, feathery creations as well. Prices range from about 7.50 - 49.50, so there has to be something for every taste and budget!

There has been some talk about an opening reception, so stay tuned for that little soiree which I'm sure will be fun and engaging.

Etsy | Bananarchy | Fashion Show!

2009-07-01T20:58:00.000-07:00

So, I just posted some photo prints for sale on Etsy. Ch-ch-check 'em out here!

Also, yours truly is responsible for the highly commented upon photo of the Bananarchy girls for Austin's Decider website. I won't lie, I'm proud to call this photo my own, even if the banana on the left looks like. . . well, I'm sure you know by now. Check out the article, and while you're at it, check out how my photo is now on Videogum and Entertainment Weekly blogs. Yep, I'm proud - but I would enjoy my credit. Oh, and these are only the ones that have been discovered. If you know of anymore links, please send them my way!

Decider | Videogum | Entertainment Weekly

And for the grand finale of this post, I'm hosting a fashion show at the end of August. Stay tuned for details, but if you would like to help in any sort of way (and I will need much, much help), please let me know!

SavannahRed loves you. Just remember that!

M-M-M-Moxie!

2009-06-07T16:47:00.000-07:00

Well, Moxie on South Lamar is closing at the end of the month, but you can check out SavannahRed on the walls until the doors are forever locked.

Sad, but come see my stuff if you haven't already!
*coughAntoinettecough*

Holy Cacao! The Onion

2009-05-17T19:31:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if you've gotten a chance to grab a copy of The Onion this week, but SavannahRed Photography covered another awesome food feature on Holy Cacao! Let me know what you think. Many thank you's to The Onion for being so awesome.

Flightpath Coffee House

2009-04-05T11:55:00.000-07:00

As of last night, SavannahRed Photography is now displayed throughout Flightpath Coffee House at 51st and Duval. It will remain up until May 3rd.

Hope you get a chance to see it if you haven't before! As always, feedback is more than welcome.

Enjoy your week!

SavannahRed|The Onion

2009-04-02T18:34:00.001-07:00

Well, Miss Amy Ramm of NadaMoo! was featured in this week's Onion in the food section. My friend Gina wrote the article, and she was kind enough to ask me to photograph this sweet, inspirational lady of love and goodness.

The article containing SavannahRed Photography may be found at this link: http://austin.decider.com/articles/amy-ramm-of-nadamoo,25945/

I am so honored.

Sewing for Cloe

2009-03-27T19:57:00.000-07:00

Well, I have my first fitting with Cloe tomorrow at noon. I have only one dress that could be almost done, and the other is in the works. The skirt will come later as it is definitely going to be a challenge.

I'm up for it. Wish me luck!

The Round|Space12

2009-03-13T12:07:00.000-07:00

We are launching The Round in Austin! It's going to be a beautiful intimate evening of musicians sharing the stage with slam poets and live painters. For this special premiere during SXSW we'll have two different sets comprised of 3 singers on stage together. Please join us at Space12 March 20th from 8-10:30pm at Space12 (3121 E. 12th St.)...

THE ROUND & how it works:
3 songwriters sit on stage together
often collaborating loosely for a unique performance
sometimes with backing musicians

joined by slam poets and live painters
a relaxed & intimate evening of collaboration
audience sits in rapt attention
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

$5-$10 cover and donations accepted

Featured Lineup:

Songwriters
Laura Gibson (Hush Records, toured with Colin Meloy of Decemberists, from Portland, OR)
Loch Lomond (Portland, OR)
Whiskey Priest (Austin, TX)
Kate Tucker (Seattle, WA)
Matt Bishop (Hey Marseilles, Seattle, WA)

Slam Poets from Austin Slam:
Andy Buck
Justin Time

Visual Artists:
Melinda Carter
Karen Tsang

www.theround.org
www.space12.org

--------------------------------------
SavannahRed Photography will be featured on the walls of this event along with the paintings of Visual Artist Melinda Carter.

Come and check it out!

Photography Breakdown!

2009-03-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm SavannahRed
I take some awesome photos
I'll do it for you
As long as you're not getting married
But if you just got the ring
Let's kick it
Put on a pretty little dress
Lie in the grass on a sunny day
Let's play in the leaves
I'll be there with my lens
And we'll skip off happily

photojournalism | fashion | engagement | music | portrait | nature | travel | gatherings | art

512.745.7076
savannahredphoto@gmail.com
Gimme a ring-a-ling!
I'll be waiting.

.a thousand fibers.

2009-02-26T23:20:00.000-08:00

"We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men."
Herman Melville

At the Gallery at 5619 (Mosaic, 5619 Airport Blvd.), savannahred design will be featured along with 9 other textile artists in a show entitled "A Thousand Fibers." Two dresses are displayed among many beautifully and intricately woven scarves, handbags, dolls, stuffed animals, blankets, and various other accessories.

Please come to Gallery at 5619 tonight (Friday) from 7 pm - 9 pm and share with us in our celebration of our talents together!

For more information on this gallery, please visit mosaicaustin.org.
Some items will be available for purchase.

Clothing Remix|Space12

2009-02-17T08:23:00.000-08:00

Saturday, Feb. 21st
Space12
3121 E. 12th St. (near Airport)
12pm - 4pm
Clothing swap and redo!
Bring clothes and notions and machines and whatever.

It's gonna be a bitchin' good time, so rip up those clothes and make something new!

(I refashioned that dress from a mumu! Hehe)

Project: Recycle. Reuse. Refashion!

2009-02-04T13:40:00.000-08:00

Lately, I've been challenging myself to refashion things instead of buying new things (or new to me, as the case may seem), and not just create something from scratch. That way, I can still have an appreciation for the things I already have and save some of the fabric I have for other purposes.

Not only have I been doing this with my clothing, I've been doing this with other things such as shelf/dashboard mini shrines! Below you will see the Sacred Heart symbol, and these are made out of cardboard and magazine cut outs. They make me so happy!

I feel accomplished. What can I say?

Oh, and there will be a clothing swap on Saturday, Feb. 21st, for those who are interested. It will be at Space12 on E. 12th near Airport. Come! It will be fun.

Genuine Joe's Coffee House: Jan. 20 - Feb. 20

2009-01-21T21:17:00.000-08:00

Sooo, if you missed the East Austin Studio Tour, you can see the same photos! Hooray!

Genuine Joe's Coffee House
2001 W. Anderson Ln.
Austin, TX 78757
Now until Feb. 20th

If you respond to this blog post, you can get 20% off! Isn't that amazing? It sure is, Bob.

Oh, and I still have the shoe photos at Montage, so check those out if you haven't already!
(53rd and Duval, for inquiring minds)

Montage

2008-12-07T22:23:00.000-08:00

SavannahRed Photography will be displaying at Montage on 53rd St. from December 10 until a later date to be determined.

Montage is a beautiful boutique that offers vintage and eco-fashion apparel, some organic beauty products, and wonderful accessories. Amanda was sweet enough to have me display my work in her store, and I am excited about this new adventure.

The majority of the prints are metallic, which is a new route I've chosen as they have a very warm texture, and this will add a lot to the shoe photos that will be displayed. I chose to photograph shoes because the majority of the products in Montage are clothing and accessories. I thought it would be fun to play with the idea of having shoes for sale, but not for your feet - for your wall! Andy Warhol would be proud for sure.

Please stop by Montage soon! We would like to have a party in January, so stay tuned for more information.

Very large happenings.

2008-11-21T21:33:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I am proud to be apart of the East Austin Studio Tour at Space12 on E. 12th and Airport. It will be happening Nov. 22 - 23, 10 am - 5 pm. It is so exciting to finally be able to display my work with my friends in such a wonderful artist event. I am deeply anticipating what is to come of this weekend.

Hope to see you there!

<3.
SavannahRed

Getting something started and I'm not sure what.

2008-10-16T13:47:00.000-07:00

Helloooo!

I'm a photographer, designer, singer, dancer, world traveler, and even a chef on some special occasions. I kind of do a little bit of everything, especially as far as the creative world is concerned. So, I thought I would jumpstart this blog that is everything I do creatively with a little number called the Little Black Dress.

I designed this thing for a competition, and I was more than ecstatic when I saw it featured in the window of the store I submitted it to (Blackmail on South Congress here in Austin). It was a dream come true, to sound trite, but I don't care. It is pretty cool nonetheless.

Hopefully, through this blog, you can find out more information of where I'll be showing, what I'm doing, some of my inspirations, etc. Feel free to also read some more of the interworkings of my crazy little mind on any of the other blogs I have. I'm kind of all over the internet. I have about 5 blogs now in addition to the things I journal on real paper, so it could get overwhelming. Oh, I'm also writing a book right now (2 of them, actually). When do I ever find the time to do all of this stuff?!

I hope you at least enjoy some of the things that you read, so sit down, get a cup of coffee or tea, and hang out with me. I'm sure it will be quite amusing at times.

If you would like to hire me as a photographer, designer, or anything else that is creative and legal, here is my contact information:

savannahredphoto@gmail.com
512.745.7076

Thank you so much. I hope you like what you see and read!

Kisses to Muffy~
<3.