Gabby Barrett Opens the ACMS 2022 in Custom Johnathan Kayne
Working in fashion here in Nashville has allowed me to collaborate with the hottest artists in country, and I couldn’t be more proud to help some of country music’s strongest women feel beautiful!
Most recently I had the opportunity to create something truly one of a kind for the ACM Best New Female Artist of the Year, Gabby Barrett. The hot, young singer’s amazing stylist reached out to me prior to this years ACMs. Stylist Tiffany Gifford new that this years ACM wardrobe needed to be next level cool to stand side-by-side with co-hosts Dolly Parton and Jimmie Allen. The country stars were set to take the stage in Las Vegas, so the look had to have a little bit of rock and roll and a little bit of Nashville flair!
I wanted to share with you all the journey we took to achieve this sexy dramatic jumpsuit!
Knowing the fabulous Dolly would be shining as always, I knew we needed to bring the sparkle to the stage. Celebrity stylist Tiffany Gifford was not afraid to collaborate with me on what her client needed to sparkle under the lights. During this design process we explored a few options and ways to drape this magic fabric.
You can see from the initial sketch that this piece came along way from start to finish.
The original sketch had included an overskirt/ruffle that covered the leather pant. The draping of the fabric was fun to explore in a sketch, but it wasn’t until the fabric hit the form when the design began to come to life.
For this piece we used a very chic metal mesh fabric. This shiny, and heavy, fabric hangs and drapes quite beautifully. When I was able to get the fabric up on the form it became clear what shapes and lines were going to flatter the body, and give Gabby her best ‘feel beautiful’ moment. With a fabric like this you achieve a more beautiful outcome when you work with the flow of the fabric, instead of fighting it’s free and flowy nature.
While waiting for this unique black mesh to arrive, the draping was started in a silver mesh. This helped to explore shapes, style lines before jumping into the final edition. See the designs below:
Can you spot the design that made it on the ACM stage? ^^^^^
Lights, Camera, Fashion Show for St. Jude
Supporting St. Jude has been important to myself and the JK Team for years. My sweet friends at My Best Friend Jenna offer the best opportunity each year to raise money for this great cause, and help support young women in finding confidence and feeling beautiful! I am so blessed to have been a part of this event for the past few years, and to have seen these amazing young women radiate their confidence on and off the stage! Today I am reflecting on the magic of last night, and all the hard work that went into creating this beautiful event! Here’s a peak at LCF 2022, and I hope this shows y’all that you NEED to be there to support next year!
The LCF Fashion Show is hosted by My Best Friend Jenna at the Carl Perkins Civic Center. This space was the perfect space to welcome the sold out charity fashion show. That’s right, these young women helped to make this a SOLD OUT event! How incredible is that? I was truly inspired by the young women involved in the show. The night began with live entertainment, and the energy of the girls backstage was unmatched! It was truly a blessing to see each of these girls buzzing to get on stage to share what they’ve done in the past year for St. Jude!
The event began with a spectacular show by the models. They had prepared an opening number dance and worked so hard to learn the steps, and the style! Let me tell y’all, they brought it with the confidence. The stage lit up for these bright, young, individuals as they prepared to make their introductions.
I had the honor co-emceeing this event! It was truly a pleasure to introduce the special guests and event hosts. Y’all know I love to get the chance to talk about beautiful women and beautiful dresses, so these events are always my favorites. Being on stage for such a great cause, and with a great community like the one built by My Best Friend Jenna is a highlight of my year.
This years panel of judges was packed with some of Nashville’s Favorites! Models, chefs, authors, designers. These judges were STARS!
The show has begun and these beautiful ladies one by one introduced themselves to the panel of judges, and the audience. They all shared their inspiring goals and their favorite ways to raise money for St. Jude. Some of these lovely young ladies also shared their personal motivators, and their families connections to the St. Jude Hospital.
Each model was escorted down the runway, and headed off back stage to get ready for the fashion show! The girls were encouraged to share there personality, and their special differences, on the runway and in their introductions. The judges at this event are looking for confidence, personality, and eagerness to give back!
If you have been following our social media you might know about a special young lady who was being honored at last nights LCF event. Miss Grace is a Senior in High School here in Tennessee and a current patient at St. Jude. Her story is one of thriving through difficulties, and continuing to be a positive force in the world. Grace was diagnosed with a rare cancer that has caused multiple tumors to form in her body. Grace’s story was inspiring to me before I had the opportunity to meet her, but once I was blessed with that chance I knew she was special. Grace’s positivity is unmatched, and her sweet and gentle soul is infectious! I am honored to have had the chance to meet this wonderful young woman, and I know she is going to continue to bring greatness into the world. Grace’s name is truly matched with her graceful spirit.
Before this event my team and I wanted to do something special this year, we fundraised more than ever before selling signed posters, and collecting donations, but our special project was creating a custom prom dress for Miss Grace. With her favorite colors in mind, we customized our fan favorite prom style, to give her a special moment that she truly deserved.
Creating this gown for Grace was absolutely a memory that will last me a lifetime! In our first and only fitting Grace spoke about wanting to be involved in the LCF show, but that her cancer had prevented her from being able to audition. When My Best Friend Jenna reached out about highlighting her as an honoree she was overjoyed by the opportunity to get dressed up, and to have the chance to feel beautiful. I am humbled to have been able to create a gown that gave Grace the confidence to let her beautiful self shine!
Grace’s runway walk blew me away. Her emotional reaction to how she felt; getting to see her family, and best friend, supporting her in the crowd was so special. Grace is so truly kind that she felt she could not enjoy this night without sharing it with her best friend and fellow St. Jude patient. Her passion in sharing the confident feeling and beautiful moment made me love this young woman even more. My team and I will forever be grateful to have taken a part in Grace’s night.
The night continued to be special as the girls walked the runway and showcased their own style and Confidence.
Each model had the opportunity to work with me to select a runway look that was 100% them! Helping these girls show their style was such a joy, and it all pays off to see them work it on the runway. From customization to brand new styles and colors, the girls selections last night were on FIRE!
I must say the competition on stage was tight, and the judges had to make some difficult calls to select the top 12 models for the night!
These girls brought the sass, style, and stunning personalities. Each one having spent the last year planning special fundraisers, and accepting donations from friends and family. Every girl who walked the runway had 100 reasons to be so proud of themselves and their fellow models.
The strong character of these young woman was showcased by their supportive nature. All of these participants we’re there to support each other, and the positivity they held towards the winners was inspiring for a group of so many young woman. I see bright futures ahead for each and every participant of this great event.
When the judges took their moment to deliberate, and narrow from the top 12 to the final winners, the backstage crew was hustling to count last minute donations to determine the crowd favorite. Waiting for results was so exciting as each girl deserved congratulations!
After the winners received their congratulations they were welcomed to walk down the runway in an epic celebration! I want to personally say my congratulations to last nights winners, and to all the participants.
To wrap up the show Daniel Diamond, who was a judge for the evening, presented the nights Top Model with a new Daniel X Diamond jacket so she could be in style! Complete in JK and Daniel X Diamond the winner was joined on stage by all participants and families for pictures.
To end the night with family and friends on stage was the perfect way to finish off this positive, community building event. My Best Friend Jenna does an absolutely incredible job bringing this event to life, and she has managed to grow this event into something impactful and incredible. Thank you to you and your family for allowing me to join you, and for sharing your passion for St. Jude with me, and with everyone! Congratulations to all participants for raising over $200,000 for St. Jude during this years efforts! I can’t wait to see what you can accomplish next year!
For more information about the LCF Fashion Show, and for how you can get involved visit My Best Friend Jenna’s Website and Follow them on social media for updates throughout the year!
p.s. A special thanks to Grace for allowing me to ask her about her story, giving her trust in me to create a one-of-a-kind custom, and for being open about her experiences. I wish all the best to you, and I look forward to watching you conquer the future.
JK Trend Report: Euphoria Style
We all know that fashion and entertainment go hand in hand. The biggest fashion trends are almost always related to our favorite movies and TV shows. Euphoria has been taking the world by storm, and in turn we are all obsessing over their wild, and edgy fashion ‘fits. The NEWEST obsession is how you can dress like these cool kids for prom in 2022. I have collected some inspo from this iconic show, and I just know these JK styles are going to have you all feeling Euphoric.
Sexy Black Sequins
Shine a little bit brighter than the rest of the crowd is an understatement in Euphoria styling. This stylish trend is all about flashing your best while using unique fabrics, textures and prints. Our sequin halter, style 2437, is the perfect way to recreate this Euphoria star’s red carpet look. This flat black sequin gives a wet look that is super sexy. In the case that an all sequin gown wasn’t special enough, we designed this piece with a little extra flare. The built in pocket has beaded fringe that lays across the upper thigh. Sexy, right
Bold Cutouts and Color
The Euphoria style of fashion has blown up so fast because they are NOT afraid of color. When I tell you that bold color is the newest way to be on top of your fashion game, I mean it! Look at this example from the show. This deep purple color pops on any background, and I just know you will fall in love with the purple/teal combo of style 2402. With a lace-up back and cut-out spaces gives this gown a stunning silhouette and is perfect for parties, or prom.
Mini Dress Mega Style
You all have to know that this ice skating costume was absolutely one of my favorites. Complete with peacock feathers I am seeing this look as a pageant fun fashion! Taking this look to the street looks a little different. Style 2183 gives the same great shape to the body, and our jade or aqua colorway are going to give the same vibe. The V shaped crystals on this costume is what makes this gown flattering, much like the pleated bust that shapes this best selling style. Perfect for the club, school dances, or big on-stage performances.
All that Glitters is Golden
Just like bold colors, mixed metals and metallic are a major trend coming from Euphoria Style. Luckily I have just the thing for this in the Spring Collection! Style 2426 is luxuriously golden. Pleated bodice and skirt are created from a soft metallic brocade that glistens in the night lights. A much more modest approach to this sparkly ensemble, but that just makes it appropriate for you to wear it to prom, pageants, or other special events. That just means you can have the fun trends, and actually wear them too.
Sleek and Chic Sleeves
High neck dresses have been a staple in fashion, but we’ve elevated the look, and apparently the Euphoria stylists agree that it is HOT! Style 2421 features the best of everything with a unique asymmetrical style, a sexy cut-out mesh illusion, and a peek-a-boo of skin on the side. This dress is seriously cool, and is totally the look for the #baddie. Miss TN USA got this look right when she slicked her hair, chopped this gown short, and added a big shiny hoop earring. Which way do you like this gown; long or short?
Badass in Blazers
We all know that pantsuits are cool, but not going to lie, I think my blue pantsuit just might have the Euphoria style beat. The one-shoulder, asymmetrical top with tailoring influences is totally cool. With gold studded details, I seriously have been obsessed with this style for a minute. Style 2323 is available in blue so you can look and feel like the coolest.
Black and White Babe
Zendaya has been a Gen X and Gen Z fashion icon for a minute, but this show has seriously sky rocketed the attention to the stars wardrobe. We are in luck that she is rocking this classy B&W gown right as we are launching new style 2408 for the new year. Using vertical stripes you can elongate the body, and give a taller and sexy look to your body. I am no stranger to using black and white to flatter and accentuate the body, so this dupe for Zendaya’s red carpet style is a total WINNER.
Crystals are a Girls Best Friends
Let’s be honest, we all want to drip in diamonds, but on a rhinestone budget. You have to know how obsessed I am with crystal mesh. This delicately crafted fabric has a crystal placed on every intersection of the mesh fabric. This creates an over the top sparkle on a flexible and workable fabric. I have been using crystal mesh for the past few collections, and you will see it in a few JK and JM looks for spring, but style 2429 embodies the sexy Euphoria style. This red carpet look was completed with a fur hem, but our version of the look is a luxurious velvet romper with crystal sleeve and overskirt. Who did it better?
Hottest Trend for Prom 2022: NEON
The hottest prom trend for 2022 is bold and unapologetic color. Fellow designer Joshua McKinley and myself have been on the neon trend for a while, but I am predicting an even bigger year for neon colors in 2022! These styles are some of the best (and brightest) for 2022 prom from our best selling and new collections! With bright colors from pink to yellow, everything you need is here for this springs hottest trends.
Kicking it off with a Joshua style that is perfect for prom! This keyhole lycra gown comes in 3 brilliant neon colors: fuchsia, turquoise, and lime. The great appeal of neon fashion is that the tones and colors naturally boost your mood. I always feel a positive energy when seeing our girls trying on this special fitted prom dress for the first time. Style 2401 is truly a unique prom style as it features a cross-over halter with a removable broach so you can style it YOUR way.
I am telling y’all, I knew that neon was youthful and sexy for years. This staple Johnathan Kayne style 2037 has been a best selling gown in my collection for multiple seasons! Truth is this gown remains one of our girls, and retailers, favorite dresses every year. This perfect prom and pageant cross-over is great for standing out, even with the limitation of school dress codes. The halter neck helps cover up to fit your school, or pageant, guidelines, and the fit and vibrancy make you feel beautiful. This sexy style is available in so many colors, including this bright fuchsia, electric blue, and NOW a bright and unique lime just in time for prom season.
When I started brainstorming sexy neon, style 2405 is the first design and color to come to mind. This vibrant dress deserves to be on a billboard. Forget the neon sign, all you need this this stretch knit V-neck. This neon yellow colorway is even more stunning in person. You just have to give this dress a try-on while doing your prom shopping. I promise it’ll be hard to find another dress as perfectly youthful, and unique.
One shoulder styles have been selling like hot-cakes. Let me tell you that style 2318 will never disappoint. As seen on Katelyn Brown in Kiwi, this style is a knockout on any body type. We’ve been selling this style to prom girls from a size two to a twenty-two. There is no way you won’t swoon over these bright beauties available in delicious colors like yellow, turquoise, kiwi, and hot coral. Shop this style soon before it’s sold out for the season.
Of course we had to include another Joshua dress that has been killing the neon fashion game for a few seasons. This flattering dress accentuates all the right curves. There’s no better way to show off your waist while wearing bold color like style 2023. The gun metal beads and details make this gown pretty, dare I say, badass. Not only will you look like a baddie in this at prom, but you’ll be totally on the neon trend! As much as I love this gown in yellow, there’s a dynamite hot coral that I couldn’t recommend more.
Pantsuit sets and pink is a match made in trending heaven. What could possibly rise to the top of the neon trend faster than a two-piece set in a stretchy, ultra comfortable fabric? That’s why style 2317 is at the top of the style list for bangin’ neon styles. These bell bottom pants are perfect for elongating the leg; and nothing is better than being able to comfortably bust a move when you’re wearing a color as energetic as this fluorescent fuchsia. The little ones aren’t excluded from this special style. Check out style C115 in the Sugar Kayne Line.
Let’s be real, we’re all #obsessed with this neon hot short. There is no wrong time to wear style 2319. I could style this romper for any occasion. Perfect for the pageant fun fashion, the non-traditional prom girl, or even for GNO. The sheer overskirt takes this fashion from flirty to fabulous, or vice versa. Perfect in two neon colors: hot coral and neon yellow.
Check out our Pinterest for Bright Color Prom Inspiration!
Birth Stone Style: The Garnet
January is here which means 2022 is in motion. We’re celebrating all the January babies who are starting this year off older and wiser by taking some fashion inspiration from the Garnet birth stone. The deep red color leads to sexy and romantic styles that are sure to start your new year right, and will lead you right into a romance filled February. Each style takes direct inspiration from a trait of the garnet birth stone.
Protect Your Confidence
Showing your curves is always a powerful way to embrace confidence inside and out! The garnet stone is known for providing protection on a long journey. Let this gown act as your protective layer and show you how beautiful you are. Style 2406 is always going to be a favorite because of it’s unique feather skirt. This sexy deep red dress is perfect for celebrating your birth month.
Bringin’ in Business
Smart style is going to be in this year. This sleek pantsuit sets you up for success in interview, or any special event. The garnet is often said to bring strength to business, so what better to represent that then with a sexy, velvet pantsuit? The boss babe look, style 2325, is sure to empower you from the outside in? Where are you wearing this piece?
Royalty Ready
I can never forget about our January Sugar Kayne Kiddos. Style C138 is a true princess dress that will grab you by the heart. This sweet piece makes our littles feel so beautiful, and that is essential for starting the year off on the right foot. Just like the Garnet, this gown was made for true royalty. Don’t forget the special matching cape that is included with this style as it gives this look a perfect final touch.
Heart Ache Relief
In ancient and medieval times the garnet stone was used to soothe and mend the heart. To me, this is exactly how you’ll feel in style 2416. This romantic style is inclusive of every age, and has a sweet and stylish charm. Even if you don’t love the January birth stone this style rolls right into the romance of Valentine’s Day for an epic date night outfit.
Get LIT
You are sure to shine bright in one shoulder sequin gown, style 2190. In the story of Noah’s Ark the garnet was used as a source of light, the same way that you will glisten from anywhere in this sexy style. This gown will continue to be a favorite on and off the pageant stage for it’s fit and timeless elegance.
Which element of the garnet stones speaks to you most? Share your style with me on instagram and hashtag it #jkJANstyle
Holiday Glam Favorites from JK!
Style your holiday season with the best! See my favorite styles for the holiday season, and how I would style them for an jaw dropping look that is sure to make you feel beautiful. I have included links to my favorite accessories so you can shop the full look! Read through and let me know which look you want for this holiday season.
Style 2419 is for the elite.
Only a true queen can rock these crystal fringe sleeves. The bomb fit of this jumpsuit will have your waist snatched, and your legs will look effortlessly long. Whip your hair into a wavy curl, and bring all the drama with a smoky eye. My favorite accessory for this festive style is this crystal earring from Jim Ball. You can never have too much crystal!
Make sure you are best dressed this year in style 2316.
Diamonds are your best friend this holiday season. Don’t skimp on the glam. Suit up in this velvet gown with diamond chain along the ruffle and hem. Both royal and black are great colors for your holiday parties and events. Never forget how much jewelry can impact the look. Take this gown from classic to cool with this crystal chain ear cuff.
Style 2330 is the definition of sophisticated.
A classy gown will never fail you, especially not at the holidays. A hot style with a stunning fit, and a flattering prong set crystal neckline. These hand sewn stones cascade down the front of the gown to the natural waist, giving a pretty shape to the body. You cannot go wrong with this dress. Are you in love? Great! Pair this gown with a soft crystal clutch like this one from Nordstrom’s.
Style 2445 is the shiny new toy!
One word to describe this new best seller. SEXY! Be a step ahead of Santa’s other party guests this season. This lycra is already flying off the rack, and you can see why. With a stretch fit it is perfect for every figure, and the new back detail is slimming and sexy. Try it on today at a local JK retailer, and when you fall in love with it shop for a shimmery liquid eyeshadow to complete the look. You are sure to be the star of the show.
Sexy Style 2450
All that glitters is BOLD. This high-low glitter lace gown is completed with delicate strap details, and a killer dramatic overskirt. Ruby red is always glamourous, so pair it with my favorite glamour staple; a red lip! This glitter lipstick looks unstoppable, and is for sure a finishing touch detail for a holiday glam moment.
Style 2410 is a Stunner
Santa Baby, this gown is gorg! The crystal mesh sleeves and back detail make this gown shine. A creation from my collab with Joshua McKinley, this gown is perfect for special events. The sleeves make it sexy and appropriate for every age and style. Shop in red or black! Don’t forget to finish your look with a beautiful face, and a bold red lip like this favorite red lipstick.
This winter angel is style 2314.
I have always loved a winter white, and this cocktail is no exception. the feather bottom is flirty and fabulous. A fan favorite for obvious reasons! Wearing a short dress is a great excuse to find a fun shoe. This white dress needs a little color! Why not add a pop of holiday spirit with your very own ruby slipper like this Betsy Johnson heel.
Style 2452 is my favorite!
Velvet is always a perfect fit for the holidays. You can shop it now in festive red, simple black, or this luxurious navy velvet with crystal trim that wraps around your body. It can not get more sexy then this! Seriously y’all need to be strutting to the grocery store in this gown, I am obsessed with it for every occasion. The best way to upgrade the look! A cool metallic shoe! Our example is from The Diverse Style line by Sydni Dion. Did you know Sydni is the current Miss IL, and she has modeling for me at many markets! So happy her shoe compliments this design!
So what will you wear to feel beautiful this holiday season? Share your best looks with me by tagging @johnathankayne on Tik Tok and Instagram!
xoxo,
JK
