Ariana, Live from the Runway, Scottie. by Designs: A Timeless Love Affair with Fashion
To commence the first month of the new year, a remarkable fashion event of the season unfolded under the majestic chandeliers of the Stan Mansion, where Chicago’s renowned Scottie.by Designs presented “What is Love?”—a collection that transcended the ordinary, unveiling the romanticism of both haute couture and deep emotion. The show, held in the heart of Chicago, was a breathtaking fusion of past and future, as history mingled with cutting-edge design amidst the vintage splendor of the 1920s architectural masterpiece.
The Stan Mansion, with its ornate, opulent design and sweeping marble staircases, stood as the perfect canvas for the night’s celebration. Originally constructed i November 1, 1920, this historic gem has long been a symbol of Chicago's storied elegance, and it was within these esteemed walls that Scottie.by Designs reimagined love through the lens of fashion. The juxtaposition of the mansion's grandiose atmosphere with the innovative edge of Scottie’s creations was nothing short of spectacular—a testament to the designer’s ability to blend timeless demure with contemporary vision.
Scottie opening “What is Love?“
The Collection: A Narrative of Love
“What is Love?” was a collection that spoke to the heart, weaving the complexities of romance through a vibrant lens. Scottie, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, took the audience on a journey oscillating between soft femininity and bold statements. In an original poem, Scottie expressed their beliefs on love, its emotions, and the journey of declaration and commitment.
The collection opened with delicate looks that flowed effortlessly, as if each model glided across a cloud. Feather-light silks and tulles, adorned with intricate beading and lacework, evoked the innocence and vulnerability of love's first bloom. Soft blush and pale ivory set the tone, while hints of lavender and powder blue hinted at the nuanced emotions of passion and longing.
As the evening progressed, the looks became bolder. Midnight black satins, ruby reds, and deep emerald greens appeared in sharp silhouettes, blurring the lines between sensuality and strength. Structured corsets cinched waistlines, while asymmetrical necklines and sharp pleats added a modern edge to classic romance. Each ensemble told a unique love story, reflecting the ebb and flow of passion, loss, and rejuvenation.
The Details: Couture Meets Art
The details truly set Scottie by Designs apart. Ornate embroidered wireframes over sleek, monochromatic undergarments, a hand-painted dress made from leaves, and a carefully curated floral crown left the audience enthralled by Scottie’s versatility and dedication to couture design. Another prominent trend in the collection was the delicate chain embellishments that adorned nearly every piece, adding artistry to the craftsmanship and symbolically showcasing the weight of love, romance, and relationships.
Building on the heaviness of romance, Scottie also featured pieces reminiscent of the capes and robes worn by historical figures in the gothic era. Other designs took a bold step into the future with unconventional pieces, such as a sultry taped newspaper retro mini dress and a two-piece skirt set made from neckties traditionally worn with a tuxedo. Metallic thread and wire outlined sheer, minimally decorated intimates, shimmering under the spotlights as models moved gracefully down the runway, embodying the essence of each phase of “modern romance,” reflecting the culmination of the roaring 20s.
The use of color was particularly noteworthy. Each hue was carefully chosen not only for its aesthetic value but also for its emotional depth. From soft pastels evoking the gentleness of a lover’s touch to fiery reds and blacks representing passion and desire, every piece in the collection invited the audience to experience the full spectrum of what love can be.
Attendees mingling at the Versailles Lounge
The Attendees: A Gathering of Chic Souls
The event was as much a celebration of style as it was of love, with some of Chicago's most fashionable names in attendance. The guest list was a curated collection of the city’s elite, from local philanthropists and art curators to celebrities and influencers, all expressing their interpretations of love through fashion. Among the crowd were designers, stylists, and models who had walked the runways themselves, all gathered to admire Scottie’s latest offering.
The event also featured empathic sound healer Sevan Mercy, sensual pole dancer Wolfe J, and an extensive entourage of backstage talent, including artistry by Rae Proch, Skyla Beauty, Catharine Jacobs, and Mimi J Makeup. It was coordinated by Hannah Murphy and hosted by the lovely legacy and venue specialist, Cera Stan.
The air was filled with excitement as champagne flutes clinked and conversation flowed among guests dressed in their finest. It was clear that the evening wasn’t just a celebration of beautiful clothes, but of the unspoken connection between the audience, the designer, and the artistry of the garments themselves. The atmosphere was intimate yet grand, like a private soiree in a fairy-tale ballroom.
Live entertainment at the Versailles Lounge
A Historic Venue for a Timeless Vision
What made the event even more extraordinary was the venue itself—the Stan Mansion. With its vintage charm and old-world glamour, the mansion effortlessly complemented Scottie’s designs. Originally constructed in the 1920s as a private social club, the space exudes an elegance that has withstood the test of time. Its ornate details—frescoed ceilings, regal chandeliers, and sweeping staircase—created a backdrop worthy of such a monumental fashion presentation. It was as though the building itself had been imbued with the romance and grandeur of the evening, offering a perfect blend of history and contemporary flair.
Attendees seated at the Grand Ballroom
In Conclusion: A Masterpiece of Emotion
In its essence, “What is Love?” by Scottie.by Designs was more than just a collection reveal; it was an exploration of the ways in which love is reflected in art, in fabric, and in human connection. Each piece on the runway was a visual sonnet, crafted with the meticulous care and boundless creativity that have become Scottie’s signature. The Stan Mansion, bathed in the glow of the runway lights, became the stage for a timeless narrative—one that will no doubt linger in the hearts and minds of all who witnessed it.
This show was not only a story for the eyes but a poetic reminder that love, like fashion, is ever-evolving. What is love? Perhaps, as Scottie.by Designs so beautifully proved, love is an eternal, transformative force—captured, celebrated, and everlastingly reimagined.
Event photography by Alex Callejo
Event video photography composed by Kantham Dot
Editing by Jessica Quilees
