24.2.11

Next Season, Next Level: CIAA Fashion Trends

- Monique Douglas

On March 20th of each year, we welcome the 1st day of spring. We do this by unlocking our clothing bins or trunks, and packing away our turtlenecks and toboggans. While we prepare for a warmer climate, the Queen City and surrounding areas are preparing for a different type of climate change -the social climate change- that occurs every early March: The annual CIAA basketball tournament.

This year’s college basketball tournament takes place at the Time Warner Cable Arena, February 28-March 5th and garners tourists from up and down the east coast. The ending weekend of the tournament brings tons of revenue to Charlotte’s nightlife, as every club and promoter will be hosting parties at any feasible venue. When a weekend like CIAA approaches, the city of Charlotte has to prepare for the sudden change in social climate…and dress accordingly, of course. Here are some items that are hot fashion trends this upcoming CIAA weekend, and some that just need to stop:

HOT!
·Trendy timepieces. Spring is blossoming and with it brings colorful watches from the inexpensive to the pricier designers, for both men and women

·Rompers. Paired with high heels they can be sexy, flirty, and comfortable. Need I say more?

·Lace. This fabric is being spotted more recent than any other trendy fabrics. Though not a personal favorite, the right article of clothing in a lacey fabric can be attractive and romantic

·Think in Prints. Leopard, safari, floral or exotic themes are all fashionable this season

STOP!
·Retire the rubber-looking leggings. Sorry ladies. I know that as a lady myself, I should be shot and strangled for writing this but the leather look is out this season. Stick to the “jeggings” or regular leggings if need be, to accommodate the change of temperature

·Saving pennies on cheap perfume/cologne. Please do all of the ticket-buying patrons a favor by spending more for an actual eau de parfum. Cheaper scents tend to have an unpleasant smell

·Strutting in “Stripper heels”. You know what I’m talking about. Let’s opt for a more fashionable, classy platform heel instead. They can be found with a visible or hidden platform and in any fabric. I own a pair in suede actually and I find it elongates the legs for a flattering look!

·Throwing on Uggs. Yes, I know that there are day-parties galore however do not attend any of them sporting a pair of these popular Australian boots. Yes we love them, yes they are comfortable but they need to hibernate in the spring

So as you prepare to attend The Ritz-Carlton for the NXL21 on March 5th, be sure to take a quick look at what’s hot enough to wear for this big, eventful weekend!
For more information on NXL21 Charlotte events during CIAA, visit http://charlotte.nxlevelent.com/ .

3.2.11

People will talk about it.

People will remember it.

Some people will forever be changed…

We invite you to Urban Garden @ the Ritz during the CIAA tournament weekend!

The Ritz Carlton is the Queen City’s most inspired design which features a breath-taking, multi-level atrium nestled beside Bank of America’s innovative office tower. The atrium will play host to alumni and party-goers alike in one of the most distinguished venues overlooking the city skyline.

Glass walls create an inspiring backdrop for impromptu socializing, making the Urban Garden Charlotte’s ultimate party place to be front and center. The Urban Garden is a centerpiece for beautiful insanity personified as we celebrate the festivities during CIAA. Located three floors above street level, it offers easy access via a pedestrian pathway from the Bank of America Center Parking Garage, as well as across the sky bridges.

Entry is permitted in at 1 Bank of America Center at the corner of 5th and College Streets in Center City Charlotte.

This is a semi-formal affair. Your finest attire is requested.

• Complimentary Hors D’Ĺ“uvres Served Butler Style • Multi-level atrium • Multiple Bar Stations • VIP Privileged Tables with Reserved Bottles

Advanced Tickets Exclusively at:


Doors open at 10:00 p.m. Dance until 2:00 a.m.

This is a private event. The event will be selective in nature. Admission will be reserved for those with advance tickets and who demonstrate progressive style and execution. We ask that you prepare and dress accordingly.