Influential designer Kim Jurek-Valanzasca showcases her creative journey and promotes local talent through her boutique and fashion events in Minneapolis.
Kim Jurek-Valanzasca, an influential figure in the Twin Cities fashion scene, is making waves with her boutique, The Fitting Room, and her design label, Alma Mia. This dedicated entrepreneur first discovered her passion for fashion during a study abroad experience in Florence, where she attended an underground fashion show that ignited her desire to create. “I was hooked,” she recalls, expressing the powerful impact the experience had on her.
Upon returning to the Twin Cities, Jurek-Valanzasca quickly integrated into the local fashion community, launching her first collection under the name Less Than Perfect, which gradually evolved into Kjurek Couture. After various collaborations, including a venture with Jennifer Chilstrom known as Kindred Folk, she has now embraced her individual creative voice through Alma Mia, translating to “soul of mine.”
Her fashion line is characterized by vibrant and free-spirited designs inspired by her travels. “It reflects the pieces that I enjoy wearing most, like vintage clothing and bohemian, easy-to-throw-on pieces,” she stated, emphasizing her personal style in her creations.
At The Fitting Room, located in the Kingfield neighborhood of Minneapolis, Jurek-Valanzasca showcases her collections alongside unique garments from other local designers. The boutique highlights the slow fashion movement, rotating its roster of designers to include both seasoned professionals and emerging talent, such as Scott J Lehmann, Karen Morris Millinery, and Moon Gold Goods.
Jurek-Valanzasca is also known for her biannual fashion event, Evolve, which serves as both a runway show and a pop-up marketplace during Fashion Week Minnesota. The events, held in significant venues like the American Swedish Institute and Open Book, aim to boost local designers by providing them a platform to unveil their seasonal collections. “The beauty of the Evolve shows is that it’s kind of a big kick and push to get designers to have their items ready for a particular season,” she explained. This initiative is supplemented by a holiday show, Merry Merry!, an anniversary sidewalk show and garden party, and a resort showcase, all contributing to her mission of promoting local talent.
Operating in Minneapolis, however, presents unique challenges compared to fashion hubs like Florence. Jurek-Valanzasca acknowledges the difficulty of selling bespoke clothing in a market where many prefer mainstream brands. “I like to find a balance between things that are inspiring and things that I know are more approachable for the Midwest shopper,” she noted.
The Fitting Room functions as more than just a retail space; it is a collaborative environment where designers can test their products and gain visibility among like-minded individuals. “We’re all in this together,” she remarked, underscoring the supportive community she has cultivated. Jurek-Valanzasca’s vision aims to normalize the patronage of independent and local businesses, defining her boutique as a unique gem in the Minneapolis retail landscape. The store is located at 318 W. 38th St., Mpls., and can be found online @thefittingroommpls.
Source: Noah Wire Services
