KC is always in style.

By Kelly Bunch

Fashion has long been woven into the vibrant landscape of Kansas City. Dating back to the mid-20th century, KC’s Garment District grew to be one of the largest in the nation. Now, the metro continues to celebrate innovation in fashion through local designers and high-profile events. 

KC RUNWAY 
Mark your calendar for the second Saturday in June when the 18th Street Fashion Show takes over the vibrant blocks between Wyandotte Street and Baltimore Avenue. Models strut the catwalk under the stars for a close look at some of the metro’s freshest designs. 

In the fall, get ready for Kansas City Fashion Week which makes its mark each year with two full weeks of designer runway shows. The event draws fashion lovers and industry insiders for high-energy runway shows, designer showcases and plenty of wow moments. Grab a ticket to be dazzled by both established and emerging designers. 

ETHICAL FASHION 
In a world of fast fashion, Amy Appleton, creative director and founder of Blackbird Collection, started her clothing and interiors business with a vision to support marginalized communities and ethical manufacturing. Her goal is to educate people on using personal fashion to connect with others. “But it’s really more than just fashion,” Amy said. “It’s a whole movement towards less consumption, sustainable living and intentionally dressing, which also includes intentionally buying.” 

ART X FASHION 
KC’s world-renowned arts scene brings big names to the metro. The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art at Johnson County Community College presented A Match Made in Heaven, a mashup of two Missouri natives — fashion designer Jeremy Scott and contemporary artist Katherine Bernhardt — for a colorful and cheeky exhibition of pop culture. Smiles are inevitable as you walk through dresses made from windshield wipers and iconic branding. 

LOCAL DESIGNERS 
The KC region is booming with world-reaching design talent. Check out a few of the metro’s finest: 

CHEATIN SNAKES 
Think of gritty streetwear with a vintage flair. Even Post Malone couldn’t resist the distinctive designs of Grant Kratzer, founder of Cheatin Snakes. Grant’s creative streetwear not only graced Post Malone’s stage but also earned him a partnership creating merch for the musician’s tours. 

MADE MOBB 
Founded in 2013 by Vu Radley, Jesse Phouangphet and Mark Launiu, MADE MOBB features streetwear with hip-hop and Midwest roots. The founders’ passion for Midwest values takes their business beyond a clothing brand to community mentorship, sometimes visiting local schools to help students learn about entrepreneurial options. 

WHITNEY MANNEY 
Making a statement is an everyday occasion for Whitney Manney, who positions fashion as art. Bold colors and custom prints that reflect street art and cultural movements are signatures for Manney’s successful clothing line. 

PAOLINI 
Known for polished menswear, Paolini delivers luxury textiles and custom-tailored garments for its loyal clientele. With every detail personalized, customers walk away with one-of-a-kind pieces that last a lifetime. n 

The local makers you need to know. 

By Weston Owen

The people of KC are passionate about shopping local — bolstering and uplifting businesses and organizations born from our very own community. While these makers abound, here are a few making big impacts in the region.

WEST BOTTOMS WHISKEY CO.
Known for exceptional whiskey and award-winning cocktails that pay homage to the region and its storied history in the pre-Prohibition era, West Bottoms Whiskey Co. seamlessly blends craftsmanship and community into an incredible creation.

SANDLOT GOODS
Completely designed and handcrafted in Kansas City, Sandlot Goods specializes in hats inspired by your favorite vintage gear, worn throughout the United States and by some of the most recognizable celebrities.

SIERRA WINTER JEWELRY
The pieces from Sierra Winter Jewelry are designed in Kansas City and influenced by the Midwestern prairie, landscape and culture. The stories they inspire are as unique as the wearer, making each piece individual and timeless.

CHERRY
Curating some of the most popular KC-inspired and fashion-forward sports gear since 2012, CHERRY is women owned and promotes individuality, innovation and comfort. From premium tees, sweatshirts, blazers and everything in between, CHERRY helps keep Kansas City fresh.

WEST BOTTOMS PLANT COMPANY
Housed within the maker’s paradise of 12th Street Post, West Bottoms Plant Company offers specially sourced, high-quality plants in the ultimate downtown oasis. This artisan hub blends lush greenery with local creativity in a welcoming, inclusive space for the community.

CHRISTOPHER ELBOW CHOCOLATES
Colorful confections that are decadently delicious, Christopher Elbow Chocolates blends stunning craftsmanship with mouth-watering flavor into each chocolatey bite. These masterful, artful morsels are a great gift for any occasion, even though they may not last long. 

HAMMERPRESS
Locally designed and created, Hammerpress is a letterpress print shop specializing in cards, stationery, art, posters and more. Make those handwritten notes or invitations that much more special with a personalized touch or a little flair.