New designers join Voltage ranks

Voltage preview The annual Voltage Fashion Amplified show offers a who's who in the local fashion scene. The music and fashion extravaganza lets up-and-coming designers display their latest on a runway at First Avenue. Recently, a preview event offered a glimpse of some of the fresh talent that will be showing on April 15. (For details of the show, go to www.voltagefashionamplified.com.) Here are works by the new crop of designers, who will join show veterans Max Lohrbach, Ivan Idland, Danielle Everine, Frances Zerr and Raul Osario:

Tim & Thom: Twin brothers Tim and Thom Navarro are doing mostly menswear. They feature a retro flair with functional elements, such as a lightweight messenger bag. Well-known in the local biking community, the duo often designs wheel-worthy clothes.

Rachel Blomgren: This fashion-meets-function designer has a flair for utilitarian separates, including a cherry red skirt that has two detachable side saddlebags, which serve as sweet pockets.

Kathryn V: A senior at the University of Minnesota, Kathryn Sterner designs her line with only sustainable fabrics. Her Voltage collection mixes patterns and cool nubby textures.

Terri Martin: Martin has a thing for geometry, especially circles. But you won't see polka dots in her Voltage collection. Instead, look for a circular leather vest or a hand-knit vest made from two doughnut-shaped pieces stitched together.

Sarah Holm: Known for using edgy hand-dyed silks and structured construction in her dresses, Holm is now dabbling in swimwear that boasts an urban, edgy feel.

Save our soles All the salt on sidewalks and streets really takes a toll on your footwear.

"I've seen a lot of salty shoes come in lately," said Randall Reichstadt, owner of the lower-level shoe repair shop at Macy's in downtown Minneapolis. In addition to leaving white rings on leather, salt deposits can gather on car mats and wear spots on the backs of shoes.

To keep your smooth leather shoes in tip-top shape this winter, Reichstadt suggests using a water-repellent spray to keep salt from penetrating. Then all you need to do is wipe off any salt that gets on your shoes with a damp sponge or a desalting product. A professional cleaning every once in a while will help, too.

For suedes, Reichstadt's advice is simple: Don't wear them until "sidewalks are clear."

Ugg lovers, take note: Macy's Shoe Repair does offer a $25 cleaning to get the salt out of these popular boots. Reichstadt has been conditioning an average of five pairs a day this winter.

Pick of the week

Carnelian bracelet by Satya, $48The Satya line of jewelry blends semiprecious gemstones and symbols. This bracelet is made from deep orange carnelian, a stone said to promote positive thought. It's adorned with a tree of life pendant, which represents grounding, wisdom and growth. Wear it alone or with a stack of bracelets.

Rick Rack, 3414 W. 44th St., Mpls., 612-746-4160

SALES AND EVENTS

THURSDAY

Ladies' Night Out at Houndstooth: Models will preview spring looks and stylists from Beau Monde Salon will offer free bang trims. Karla Haugen of K.H. Design will showcase her jewelry. Shoppers receive 20 percent off all day. There also will be $500 in door prizes awarded during the event.

4 to 9 p.m., 5749 Egan Dr., Savage, 952-440-2807.

Girls' Night Out at Drama: Get 15 percent off all apparel and accessories (excluding jewelry). A new selection of items includes hats from San Diego Hat Co. If you spend more than $150, you'll receive a complimentary swag bag.

6 to 9 p.m., 1203 Lagoon Av., Mpls., 612-338-9423, RSVP requested.

FRIDAY

Grethen House sale: Prices on all fall merchandise will be marked down by 70 percent.

4930 France Av. S., Edina, 952-926-8725.

SATURDAY

Avoid the Grey fashion show: More than 20 local designers will be featured, including Carmichael Claith, Amanda Christine, Korrin Lohmann, Arielle Simone, Elena Mercurio, Tender Cuts, Maritza Ramirez, Renate Adjei, Sydney Ilten and Niki English.

3, 7 and 9:30 p.m. shows, Old Arizona, 2821 Nicollet Av. S., Mpls. Buy $15 tickets in advance at Cliché, 612-870-0420.

Sara Glassman • sglassman@startribune.com