Thread Experience

WEB-EXCLUSIVE: Thread invites shoppers to Costa Mesa's The Lab for a day of fashion, art, design, music, and culture.

Thread Event May 15, 2011 11 a.m.-6 p.m. The Lab 2930 Bistrol St., Costa Mesa $25 VIP, $5 with RSVP, $10 without RSVP :: threadshow.com

Located about a mile away from South Coast Plaza is The Lab Anti-Mall, a small, enclosed retail space filled with trendy shops that stray far from the typical department store. With an implicit emphasis on uniqueness, it’s no coincidence that the Thread Event, a one-day retail experience that invites shoppers to become immersed in an environment filled with fashion, art, design, music, and culture, chose it as its location for its annual event, which takes place on May 15.

The event showcases indie fashion created by aspiring designers and entrepreneurs. Thread provides an avenue for local and start-up brands to expose shoppers to a variety of styles and trends that may go unnoticed in major department stores. Shoppers will be able to traverse through the event, shopping and viewing exhibits, all while listening to the eclectic beats emanating from a DJ booth.

“By allowing shoppers to skip the third-party retailer, Thread gives trendsetters an opportunity to meet the designers face to face, feed the local economy, be kind to the environment, and ensure products are locally made and ethically produced,” says Danielle Gano, Thread spokesperson. “This one-on-one connection also allows designers to get direct feedback from their consumers and lifts the veil for consumers to know exactly where their products come from.”

WHAT TO EXPECT
All-Day Runway Shows
Shoppers will be able to take note on the trends with all-day runway shows, all of which forecast the latest styles for upcoming seasons.

DIY Lounge
Unleash your creative side at the DIY Lounge. This area invites attendees to learn how to create a variety of crafts and accessories using techniques, such as screen-printing, for free.

Clothing Swap
Have a closet full of clothing and accessories that are past season? Bring them with you to the event. Depending on the styles, materials and items, you may be able to swap your old threads for new ones.

Man Cave
The Thread Event aims to appeal to a wide variety of audiences, including men. At the Man Cave, guys will be able to kick their feet up and relax while playing video games as they wait for companions to finish up shopping.

And More!
In addition, there will also be free gift bags, giveaways, a style lounge, photo booths, a pop-up nail bar, and more.