Ariana, Live From The Runway: Scottie. by Designs: A Timeless Love Affair with Fashion

Published on February 21, 2025

Written by Ariana West

To commence the first month of the new year, a remarkable fashion event of the season unfolded under the majestic chandeliers of the Stan Mansion, where Chicago’s renowned Scottie.by Designs presented “What is Love?”—a collection that transcended the ordinary, unveiling the romanticism of both haute couture and deep emotion. The show, held in the heart of Chicago, was a breathtaking fusion of past and future, as history mingled with cutting-edge design amidst the vintage splendor of the 1920s architectural masterpiece.

The Stan Mansion, with its ornate, opulent design and sweeping marble staircases, stood as the perfect canvas for the night’s celebration. Originally constructed i November 1, 1920, this historic gem has long been a symbol of Chicago's storied elegance, and it was within these esteemed walls that Scottie.by Designs reimagined love through the lens of fashion. The juxtaposition of the mansion's grandiose atmosphere with the innovative edge of Scottie’s creations was nothing short of spectacular—a testament to the designer’s ability to blend timeless demure with contemporary vision.

Scottie opening “What is Love?“ at the Stan Mansion

A story.

The Collection: A Narrative of Love

“What is Love?” was a collection that spoke to the heart, weaving the complexities of romance through a vibrant lens. Scottie, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, took the audience on a journey oscillating between soft femininity and bold statements. In an original poem, Scottie expressed their beliefs on love, its emotions, and the journey of declaration and commitment.

The collection opened with delicate looks that flowed effortlessly, as if each model glided across a cloud. Feather-light silks and tulles, adorned with intricate beading and lacework, evoked the innocence and vulnerability of love's first bloom. Soft blush and pale ivory set the tone, while hints of lavender and powder blue hinted at the nuanced emotions of passion and longing.

The Attendees: A Gathering of Chic Souls

Attendees mingling at the Versailles Lounge

The event was as much a celebration of style as it was of love, with some of Chicago's most fashionable names in attendance. The guest list was a curated collection of the city’s elite, from local philanthropists and art curators to celebrities and influencers, all expressing their interpretations of love through fashion. Among the crowd were designers, stylists, and models who had walked the runways themselves, all gathered to admire Scottie’s latest offering.

The event also featured empathic sound healer Sevan Mercy, sensual pole dancer Wolfe J, and an extensive entourage of backstage talent, including artistry by Rae Proch, Skyla Beauty, Catharine Jacobs, and Mimi J Makeup. It was coordinated by Hannah Murphy and hosted by the lovely legacy and venue specialist, Cera Stan.

The air was filled with excitement as champagne flutes clinked and conversation flowed among guests dressed in their finest. It was clear that the evening wasn’t just a celebration of beautiful clothes, but of the unspoken connection between the audience, the designer, and the artistry of the garments themselves. The atmosphere was intimate yet grand, like a private soiree in a fairy-tale ballroom.

Live entertainment at the Versailles Lounge

A Historic Venue for a Timeless Vision

What made the event even more extraordinary was the venue itself—the Stan Mansion. With its vintage charm and old-world glamour, the mansion effortlessly complemented Scottie’s designs. Originally constructed in the 1920s as a private social club, the space exudes an elegance that has withstood the test of time. Its ornate details—frescoed ceilings, regal chandeliers, and sweeping staircase—created a backdrop worthy of such a monumental fashion presentation. It was as though the building itself had been imbued with the romance and grandeur of the evening, offering a perfect blend of history and contemporary flair.

Attendees seated at the Grand Ballroom

In Conclusion: A Masterpiece of Emotion

In its essence, “What is Love?” by Scottie.by Designs was more than just a collection reveal; it was an exploration of the ways in which love is reflected in art, in fabric, and in human connection. Each piece on the runway was a visual sonnet, crafted with the meticulous care and boundless creativity that have become Scottie’s signature. The Stan Mansion, bathed in the glow of the runway lights, became the stage for a timeless narrative—one that will no doubt linger in the hearts and minds of all who witnessed it.

This show was not only a story for the eyes but a poetic reminder that love, like fashion, is ever-evolving. What is love? Perhaps, as Scottie.by Designs so beautifully proved, love is an eternal, transformative force—captured, celebrated, and everlastingly reimagined.

Event photography by Alex Callejo

Event video photography composed by Kanthan Dot

Editing by Jessica Quiles