Incense is burning, spiked multi-colored jean jackets wait patiently to be bought while mannequins dressed in muslin and silk organza watch the passing traffic go by -- it’s a new day for Dog and Pony.

Garments that once occupied the open space concept are now stored away behind a grey photo backdrop. D + P’s signature cut-off denim stand on display, ready for their close-up.

Open to the public once a week, every Thursday, this boutique turned creative space is a favorite of University Fashion Group (UFG) members and local fashion forwards alike.

There is electro music sounding from owner Star Lee’s speakers. She meticulously accessorizes a sleeveless jean top, as Feathers band member Courtney Voss, visits -- trying on outfits for an upcoming photo shoot. Intern Harrison Koiwai is busy at work, resting a sketchpad on his knee and illustrating looks for a music video collaboration with the dreamy pop group.

In the midst, noted local model Cile Cook walks in, browsing the custom made merchandise, as Feathers frontwoman Anastasia Dimou, casually stops by for a chat.

“Personal growth comes at the same time as creative growth,” believes Lee. “I feel like this space has always been great for attracting that energy.”

She began her career at 15, leaving home to study design in Milan, Italy, known as one of the fashion capitals of the world. Gaining experience in the New York markets, working in model casting and interning for famed designer Alexander Wang, Lee has utilized her industry expertise to mentor the next generation of young hopefuls.

“I still have so much more to learn,” said Koiwai. Spending his summer vacation brainstorming visual concepts and ideas, he stands barefoot on the hardwood floor -- conversing with UFG Vice President Tyler Neal, and tailoring a makeshift t-shirt on friend, JuJu Huang.

Meanwhile, textiles and apparel junior Anh Nguyen, is hand studding a blouse. And freelance model Sara Skinner, has finished doing the same to a pair of mint-bleached shorts. It’s an extreme from her poses and sultry pouts, during last week’s Studio Gold photo session with Charm School Vintage.

Photographer Dagny Piasecki’s series, Chrysalis, decorates the wall. Piasecki and her business partner Carlos Seklar, are preparing for their current project, as Shari Gerstenberger, owner of Charm School Vintage, rummages through a rack filled with candy colored denim.

Describing the cut-offs as “on trend” and “easy to wear”, Gerstenberger joins another vintage boutique, Laced with Romance, selling the collection in shop.

“There’s a lot of really great things coming out of here,” she said. “And they fit perfectly,” adds Piasecki, after trying on a pair.

Lee’s snow-white pet Maltipoo, James, keeps the students company. “If I ever have a question, that free environment doesn’t really intimidate me,” said public relations intern Jarie Maldonado, elaborating that Lee “doesn’t hold you back, she pushes you to do better for yourself.”

Maldonado sits with childhood best friend, Juan “Fuzzy” Saracay, as he begins a stud count inventory. Taking on different tasks every week, these young minds stand eager to improve. And with Lee trusting her intuitive nature, she is not only teaching, but growing with them in the process.

“I’ve learned how to say no to things that don’t feel right,” said Lee. “If I do things with the right intention the end product always reflects that.”

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Dog and Pony is conveniently located in West Campus, 2712 Guadalupe St, Austin, Texas 78705. For updates on projects, photos, and information on their monthly collaborative event “Third Thursdays”, please visit their Facebook page.