After a Fashion

Stag offers a traditional selection of menswear with a distinctly modern flair in a setting that's both inviting and familiar.

Photo by Seabrook Jones/www.juicythis.com

IN BLOOM This year's Bloom felt like an Octopus Club's ArtErotica (similar fixtures and basic concept). It also had some of the vibrancy of ArtErotica. Blooms past were typically more garden party events – lovely, low-key evenings of fundraising and socializing. This Bloom was distinctly edgier, sexier (though without penises poking you in the eye like at ArtErotica), and much more creative. The performance art room was a magical space with performers who can bend in places I've only dreamed of. The art was a pleasingly diverse and eclectic selection, the crowd was abuzz with what they were seeing, money was raised, and aGLIFF did a terrific job in going a new direction.

OH HENRY! My old friend Henry Tarin from the legendary Big Bertha's Bargain Basement (1050 S. Lamar, 444-5908) wrote me on Facebook telling me he had gotten in something "hysterical" that I had to have and asking if he could mail it to me. Well, of course he could mail it to me. A couple of days later it arrived, and I gasped. Historically, I've chosen Versace and faux Versace for my evenings out – glittery, over-the-top affairs that could practically glow in the dark. Well, this was indeed a faux Versace of the lowest order. It wasn't even real faux Versace; it was more like "inspired by someone who tried on a Versace once." Poly satin (no silk for this baby), it has a white background with a crudely drawn bullfight scene on the back and is festooned with red and black roses. It could have been pretty in some other universe, but not this one. I slipped it on anyway and was so overpowered by the garish print that I knew I'd probably have to wear a very large wig to balance it out. Nobody, but nobody in Austin could pull off such a loud print ... except for me, of course, but even I am hesitating on this one. Maybe I'll save it in case someone wants to dress up as me for Halloween. And thanks for the kind thoughts from Henry, whose store does indeed carry fabulous vintage. See for yourself.

MON DIEU! Last week I mentioned that Thad Rosenfeld was director of community relations at KVUE. The operative word is "was." Some time ago. Thad is now director of community services for the Red Cross of Central Texas. How silly of me to rely on the Internet when I could have just asked him myself! Apologies to Thad. I wouldn't speak to me again, either.

WOUND-UP WEDNESDAYS I hadn't heard from my old friend John Gomi (www.gomiaustin.com and www.beatimprint.com) in quite a while and am pleased to report that he and his partners in (In)Fused Wednesdays are spinning up a storm every Wednesday night at Townhouse (303 W. Fifth) playing downbeat and dubstep. There's plenty of time (9pm-1am) to try some of Townhouse's 30-plus infused cocktails... Also every Wednesday, 7-10pm, Jeff Strange from Downstairs Apparel presents Wine.Down Wednesday in association with Aviary Lounge (both are located at 2110 S. Lamar) with music, wine specials, and tasty treats. Hosting a variety of DJs, Wine.Down Wednesday sounds like just the prescription for midweek blues.

GOING STAG Since its opening last winter, Stag (1423 S. Congress, 373-7824, www.stagaustin.com) on the SoCo strip has revved up to full speed. This menswear and lifestyle store is distinctly all-American with the feel of a traditional general store. Stylish, midrange casual wear and accessories are mixed with a few vintage pieces (including furniture) to offer an attractive variety of goods for the modern male.