Photos by: Kristen Soileau

Good Morning readers, please allow me to introduce you to the co-founder of NOLA Fashion Week, the designer of Hazel & Florange and the voice behind Oui We Girl, Andi Eaton.  It is my pleasure to share her photos, words and designs with you.  Andi allowed me to preview her new collection last night before her show today so that I could share a little sneak peek with my readers.  If you live in the New Orleans area, try to make it to her collection presentation tonight at the Saratoga on 212 Loyal Ave. in New Orleans at 7 pm.

Inspiring, Southern, and talent are the three words Andi Eaton, the creative director of the NOLA Fashion Council, used to describe New Orleans Fashion Week. She said the week has really grown to focus on more than just runway shows.

“Of course runway shows will always be the foundation of what we do, but in our fifth season I can say now that we have a more well-rounded week of events,” said Eaton.

According to Eaton, the NOLA Fashion Council has made its education workshop series and local retail support main priorities by hosting special events throughout the year, such as the Shop Your City day and the Business of Fashion workshop.

What fall trends and colors can we expect to see on the runway during NOLA Fashion Week this spring?

“
I’d expect we’ll see some emerald green because it’s having such a moment right now. I also think we’ll see lots of mixed textures and patterns as dressing in the south and in a tropical climate for the fall and winter is about layering textures and always including a pop of color with muted tones.”

Nola Fashion Week has proved to be a huge success the past few seasons. As the founder of NOLA Fashion week, what kind of struggles did you and the NOLA FC have to face to make it where you are now?

“Well, we are a small start up organization so there will always be a struggle with fundraising and just finding the time to get everything done. We are a team of around 8-10 core people doing the work of what should probably 100 people. We literally couldn’t do what we do with out the help of our volunteers like LSU’s Hemline Club and sponsors like Wisznia Architecture and Development.”

Andi, you always seem to have your hands full whether you’re styling an editorial shoot, working on your fashion blog, Oui We or preparing for a week long of runway shows. What keeps you together? What keeps you sane?


“Ha, I’m not sure how sane I am but I think surrounding yourself with good friends and colleagues that always are supportive no matter what is crucial for me. And Google calendar alerts.”

About Hazel & Florange

Hazel & Florange is a celebration of southern charm.

Home spun, ethereal, and delicately beautiful.
Clothing inspired by two Louisiana lovelies, les muses – living on the river, sipping espresso and playing scrabble into the night.

The Hazel & Florange girl wears locally made, intricately constructed clothing, designed especially for the chicest girl in the room.

She loves sweet tea, a parade and a jazz band by the moonlight… always with a “oui s’il vous plait mon cher.”

Hazel & Florange is designed by Andi Eaton manufactured in New Orleans, and sold at hazelandflorange.com.

|Source: NOLAFW|

Check out the sneak peek shots below that I got behind stage last night at the Saratoga!