Portland, Oregon is set to sparkle this weekend as native designer Stephanie Mai debuts her highly anticipated special occasion collection, “Under The Lights.” The exclusive runway showcase will take place at Flock Hall, situated beneath The Ritz-Carlton in downtown Portland, on Saturday, September 27th, marking a significant moment for the local fashion scene.
The Vision Behind “Under The Lights”
The “Under The Lights” collection is poised to embody timeless beauty, modern sophistication, and couture craftsmanship. Stephanie Mai, born and raised in the Rose City, draws deep inspiration from her Vietnamese heritage and her Pacific Northwest roots, weaving these influences into each ethereal design. Her mission is to redefine special occasion wear for the contemporary woman, artfully blending minimalist aesthetics with the meticulous detail of couture-level craftsmanship. “Fashion is more than fabric — it’s an experience, a story, and a statement,” Mai stated. “With ‘Under The Lights,’ I wanted to create a night that captures the essence of elegance and the magic of couture.” This collection represents a significant step in her ongoing pursuit of creating sophisticated yet wearable pieces that empower women.
An Evening of Glamour in Downtown Portland
Attendees can expect an immersive experience beginning at 7 p.m. as doors open for a sophisticated pre-show event. Guests are encouraged to “dress to impress” and will be treated to pre-show cocktails and globally inspired bites, all set against a backdrop of red carpet photo opportunities. The runway presentation itself will feature top models from across the Pacific Northwest, showcasing Mai’s curated, one-of-a-kind designs. Following the fashion show, the celebration will continue into the night with an exclusive after-party, complete with a live DJ, ensuring a full evening of style and entertainment. The venue, Flock Hall, located at 917 S.W. Alder Street, provides an urban-chic setting befitting the collection’s metropolitan sophistication.
Stephanie Mai: A Portland Fashion Voice
Stephanie Mai’s connection to Portland runs deep. With a background in apparel design from The Art Institute, she specialized in bridal and evening wear, establishing her couture house in 2008. Her design philosophy is known for its bold, sexy, and modern fits, incorporating delicate lace and feminine details with an emphasis on lightness and comfortability. She designs with the aim of helping women embrace their beauty and feel confident, a principle that resonates with Portland’s own appreciation for individuality and self-expression. Mai’s work is not new to Oregon’s fashion landscape; her bridal brand, based in NW Portland, already embodies a romantic and sophisticated aesthetic tailored for the modern bride, showcasing her commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and flattering silhouettes.
Portland’s Evolving Fashion Landscape
This debut arrives at a dynamic time for Portland’s fashion scene. The city has cultivated a reputation for its unique, independent, and often sustainability-focused fashion industry, distinct from the rapid pace of fast fashion. Portland’s fashion landscape thrives on local artistry, creativity, and a strong community of designers and enthusiasts. Events like the “Under The Lights” fashion show contribute to this vibrant ecosystem, offering a platform for established and emerging talents to showcase their vision. As Portland continues to be recognized as a hub for innovative design, Mai’s collection adds to the growing narrative of Oregon’s influence in the broader fashion world.
The “Under The Lights” fashion show is more than just a collection debut; it’s a celebration of Portland’s creative spirit and a testament to Stephanie Mai’s growing prominence in the fashion industry. The event promises to be a highlight on the city’s cultural calendar, offering a glimpse into the future of special occasion wear, crafted with passion and inspired by the unique blend of heritage and place.
