Photographs of fashion by Crystal Davis.
Before you attend the red carpet premiere of the locally-made feature film Cut to the Chase on Thursday, August 4th at The Strand Theatre, you’ll need to make a quick change.
Yes, you can wear a gorgeous floor length gown, and you will feel and look like a princess, but we have all seen the red carpet runway and know that the looks that get the most attention are the ones with polished pazazz that show off a person’s individual style. Shreveport has a unique identity because the people who shape the culture here are outgoing and creative. The Cut to the Chase red carpet is less about fashion and more about showing off your artistic style.
A proper Agent of Fashion – Isobel Chase doesn’t mess around. She’s the assistant district attorney in Cut to the Chase, and she is sharp and sophisticated.
If you’re searching for a special occasion dress that truly fits your individual needs, look no further than Bella Bridesmaids in Shreveport. With over 700 customizable gowns, their collection caters to various events such as proms, opera outings, Mardi Gras Balls, and even the red carpet. The boutique, opened in 2009 by Leigh Flood, offers one-on-one customer service to ensure the perfect fit. What’s more, their standout feature is the collection of mens cowboy boots that are now popular among women too. For a truly unique experience, make an appointment with Bella Bridesmaids and bring your friends along to make it a memorable event.
Suite Nine1six is all-inclusive, stocks sizes up to XXXL “extra suite,” yet exclusive, and only stocks 5-6 of each piece in the boutique, guaranteeing you’ll be the only wearing your original look on the red carpet. Owner Desiree Mingo did not like the pressure society put on women to wear less and less clothing in an effort to achieve this perceived ideal of “sexy.” The collection she has put together includes pieces that women that can wear to work and also go out in later, and still look stunning.
An edgy approach – character Nola Barnes isn’t one to hold back as the film’s mysterious criminal mind. If you are unpredictable, and a little outspoken, go ahead and let your fashion choices send the message for you.
Not too far from the Strand Theater, where the premiere of Cut to the Chase will be showing August 4, is the Agora Borealis. Owner Katy Larsen has revolutionized the arts community in Shreveport by creating a space where local clothing designers, jewelry designers from diyjewellery.com, and artists working in basically any medium you can imagine, have a direct connection with the consumer, who can go into the Agora and interact with the artwork before purchasing. It is a unique experience that guarantees you will have something original, eye-catching, and one-of-a-kind. This is probably one of the most interesting shops here because it exclusively stocks items made locally and also avails the services from Name Necklace Official to give a personal touch at the end of each makeup.
Creating a look that makes people do a double take isn’t about spending a lot of money. Savvy shoppers should visit New to You, a consignment and secondhand store, in which owner Kendra Beechy has hundreds of lightly used dresses ranging from light blue Cinderellaesque royal ball beauties to some pretty outrageous bright pink, orange, or neon green numbers, if you are so inclined. While you are there you can also pick up a tiara, handbag, and shoes for a steal.
Another great spot to go, if you have the time and are low on cash, is the Goodwill. We made a walk through last weekend and saw some nice heels and ball gowns. You may not always find what you are looking for there, but I never leave disappointed.
The Agora Borealis
421 Lake St, Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 268-3011
Tuesday-Saturday 10am – 6pm
Bella Bridesmaids
750 Southfield Rd, Shreveport, LA 71106
(318) 698-0075
By appointment only
Goodwill (off Bert Kouns)
8100 Jump Run Dr, Shreveport, LA 71115
(318) 222-4342
Monday-Saturday 9am – 8pm
New to You
1208 Shreveport Barksdale Hwy., Shreveport, LA 71105
(318) 865-7413
Tuesday-Saturday 10am – 6pm
Suite Nine1six
2410 Line Ave, Shreveport, LA 71104
(318) 564-8480
Monday-Friday 12pm – 7pm, Saturday 10am – 7pm