Marty Casey Silver Elements Collection Trunk Show at AIBI’s Made in Chicago Store

Lovehammer's Marty Casey and Dino Kourelis at the trunk show

Marty Casey created his silver jewelry collection by fusing music and fashion – a ROCK STAR hit! In 2005, Casey skyrocketed to fame after being named runner-up on reality show Rock Star: INXS. Then he hit the jackpot and got a record deal with Sony/Epic. Best known as a talented songwriter and performer, Casey has utilized his creative skills in music to inspire the designs of his jewelry. Made of .925 sterling silver, the jewelry is not only fine quality but also hip – think rock star glam. The collection also includes accessories such as hand-crocheted knit scarves (60% bamboo and 40% metallic) along with leather goods.

The collections are named after Casey’s hit songs including “Trees,” and “I See Stars.” The first item of the Stars collection is a silver dog tag necklace with a tree on it, which benefits one of Casey’s favorite organizations – “American Forests.” Thousands of trees have been planted. Casey’s Co-Designer, Fashionista Marla Lenza Zegart, told me, “Giving back rocks.” The “Wow Factor” award goes to the silver ring from the Universe & Stars collection, which is hand wrapped with 2.5 yards of silver string (Santa – don’t forget me this year). Pieces from the collection can be found at the Art Institute of Chicago gift shop along with the Morton Arboretum.

At the trunk show, Casey unveiled a “Gothic” cross pendant (experimenting with new metal, this item is made of brass metal in silver finish with 3mm of natural black onyx cabochons) designed by band mate Dino Kourelis. Casey and his band “The Lovehammers” performed at the trunk show, including one song with Garrett, an eleven year-old fan who plays in a local band named Point Blank (check out the clip on YouTube).

Having gained popularity on the rock star reality show, Casey has an international fan base that not only buys his music but also his jewelry. Look for the release of a new album by The Lovehammers early next year. They will perform at the House of Blues on March 10, 2012 – don’t miss it!

Rock Star/Jewelry Designer Marty Casey

Cross designed by Lovehammer's Dino Kourelis

"Trees" Dog Tag Necklace by Marty Casey

For additional information, please visit silverelementscollection.com.

—Cindy Burns

Photos: Marty Casey/Silver Elements and Second City Style

MADE IN CHICAGO Special Preview presented by AIBI

Jenny Pfanenstiel of Forme Millinery with Cindy Burns

MADE IN CHICAGO Champagne Celebration presented by AIBI

On Tuesday the Apparel Industry Board Inc. (AIBI) hosted a VIP Champagne Celebration for the opening night of MADE IN CHICAGO, a brand new event showcasing 21 Chicago-based designers. These premier designers and independent boutiques displayed their most recent lines of clothing, jewelry and home décor. The lovely fall evening brought in a large number of fashionistas eager to find that one-of-a-kind item. Shoppers tried on their favorite finds while sipping champagne and enjoying hors doevres.

One of my favorites at the event was the Marty Casey Silver Elements Collection– “a fusion of fashion and music.” His line includes contemporary silver jewelry, handbags and scarves. Casey played a song from his current CD while shoppers perused the rooms full of exclusive designs. My eye is on the rock star black leather bag with an attached guitar charm (it adds some bling).

Crescendo Apparel’s line of clothing is designed to fit women with tiny waists and wide hips. Crescendo’s jackets are a staple every woman should have in her closet. Forme Millinery’s lovely hats caught my eye, the colors and designs were mesmerizing. There were many options to choose from, maybe too many (I couldn’t decide on just one). I loved the the elegant purple cloche. Kreatia’s eclectic and contemporary designs are made from wool, linen and silk. Killion’s modern style of women’s clothing carries relaxed and elegant tops that can be worn with a suit or jeans, they have great versatility.

Marty Casey Silver Elements Collection

Marty Casey Performing a SongMarty Casey Silver Elements Collection

Agnieszka Kulon of Kreatia

Ann Chikahisa of Chikahisa Studio

Dana Killion of Killion Clothes

Designer Jennifer Philbrook

Crescendo Apparel

Other designers include: Barbara Keisman; Beth Ann Designs; Caramel Ribbon; Chikahisa Studio; Ecowrap; Elda De la Rosa Couture; Felt Inspired; Jennifer Philbrook; Lauren Lein; Le Fleur Interiors by Diana; Lucius Fine Jewelry; LuDia Couture Designs; Sarah Kuenyefu Collection; Sound Chick Accessories; Takara, Inc.; and VaVaVroom.

One really great reason to shop these designers, aside from the fact they are locally-based, is that 10% of your purchase will go to one of 10charities that you choose from the provided list.

The space at 44 E. Grand Ave. will be open to the public from November 16 – December 31, 2011.

For store information and hours, please contact AIBI at 312.836.1041 or aibi@aibi.com

- Cindy Burns

Photos by: Second City Style