Ask any of the local fashion insiders and they’ll tell you that whatever “it” is with respect to design and style, it belongs to Shan Keith.
He has the uncanny ability to create fashion masterpieces seasons before their time – giving “cutting edge” and “classic” the ultimate intersection with each of the items within his collections.
Keith has been a mainstay on the local fashion scene in recent years. He participated in more than one installment of Saint Louis Fashion Week, countless local shows and most recently his designs were featured in the Fall Fashion 2009 section in last week’s American.
But when he presents his show tomorrow (Oct. 23), it will be about more than just the clothes. He is using is talent to segue into helping the masses become informed about aneurisms and raising money so that lives can be saved.
“The event will be me showcasing my latest collection while also bringing awareness,” Keith said about his upcoming presentation of the Neche line at a special show.
When Keith unveils his latest collection at Windows on Washington, the show definitely won’t just be for fashion’s sake.
He’ll be using his talent as a designer to honor his late sister Santonya Neche Oliver – who passed away from a brain aneurism last year – and raise funds for research and treatment.
His sister was not only his No. 1 fan and supporter, but often aided him in the process of creation from the beginning of his career as a fashion designer. There was still a deep sadness and disbelief in his voice when he reflected on their special bond.
Keith will not only be presenting his newest designs, but allowing guests to revisit the styles he created with his sister by his side.
“She would be right there with me giving new ideas and encouragement,” Keith said. “I didn’t know how I was going to get past her passing. Doing this show was therapeutic for me.”
More than 70 pieces are scheduled to be featured as part of the Neche line. An experience of complete freedom of fashion expression for Keith, he hopes to inspire style in the people who attend.
A portion of the proceeds from the show will be donated to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation – a national organization established in 1994 to provide comprehensive information and support for aneurysm patients, their families and the medical community.
“A lot of people are not privy to the condition,” Keith said. “So I want to help people recognize symptoms, treatments and take precautions before it’s too late.”
As he displays love and pays tribute to his sister through the show, Keith says Neche – which is also his sister’s middle name – will rip the runway with all of the things fashionistas love from Keith’s signature design style.
Anyone who has seen Keith’s creations will agree that he possesses an uncanny gift for predicting trends long before they become fashionable.
Those who attend Neche will witness his talent for fashion forecasting and have an opportunity to scoop the style community by way of Keith’s keen eye for future must haves.
Though the show takes place in the heart of fall, Keith says that he won’t discriminate against other seasons for this extra special presentation of his designs.
“I’m going to show everything that I can do,” Keith said. “From spring, summer, fall and winter wear – and go outside the box.”
While he wants to use the Neche to illustrate the possibilities and the unlimited opportunities for style, he hopes that everyone who attends walks away with something more than fresh ideas for their wardrobe.
“This was a no-brainer for me,” Keith said. “It’s a way of keeping her memory alive, coping with her death and educating others on the seriousness of the condition.”
Shan Keith will present Neche tomorrow at Windows on Washington. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. Call (314) 853-6365 or visit www.shankeithdesigns.com for more information.
