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CFW 2010: Final Wrap Up
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A last look at an incredible CFW.
Photo gallery:
Once again CFW has ended, and Charleston is still reeling. Fellow blogger Caroline Millard wrote, “I’m wondering what next week will be like when I turn back into a pumpkin,” and as I struggle to readjust to sleeping normal hours, not shooting in five-inch heels, and not being constantly surrounded by some of Charleston’s most beautiful and talented people, I wanted to follow last year’s format with a wrap up on my favorite Cinderella moments at Charleston Fashion Week 2010.
Attending a model rehearsal at the Renaissance Hotel. I learned a lot about the behind-the-scenes workings of CFW last year, but this was an eye-opening experience. These CFW models worked really hard, but model coach Michelle Wood worked even harder. Her upbeat attitude, patience, and genuine smile never faltered, even when reflecting, “I told the models to give me a flirty walk, and I got snorted at. Someone snorted at me at the end of the runway! I told him, ‘You don’t flirt as cute as you think you flirt!’”
The final rehearsal at Marion Square. Walking into the tents was a huge visual indicator of how much CFW has grown and matured and my first clue that this year would be something completely new for Charleston Fashion Week.
The Emerging Design Competition on Tuesday night. Each and every designer did incredible things on that runway, and I do not envy the judges in having to pick just one winner. Here’s to our Southeastern design community, and the local design talent in particular! Charleston has so much to offer, keep designing and modeling, and let’s see you up there on the runway next year.
The outrageous makeup. Feathery eyelashes, airbrushed lightening bolts, blue painted raccoon eyes? Clearly I need a makeover. Kudos to Monkee’s of Daniel Island, Sucker Jeans, Hampden Clothing, Gwynn’s of Mt. Pleasant, and WHITE by Jodi Moylan for thinking out of the (makeup) box.
The Mychael Knight show. With all the chaos backstage, I knew we were in for something big, but I had no idea what to expect. Every piece in Mychael Knight’s collection was exquisite, the presentation was perfect, and the designer was nothing but charming, humble, and a complete gentleman. Mychael Knight, Charleston needs to see more of you, sir!
The Rock the Runway competition. This was a fun new element to Charleston Fashion Week. It’s a great way to further encourage and promote local talent, and I am all about local talent. Congrats to Caroline Debruhl, may we see you back on the runway at CFW 2011! And congrats to Antwuan Whitney, may we see you shirtless more often. Wait, what? Who wrote that?
The Bridal Couture shows. What an incredible change of pace from a frantic, high-energy week! The gowns were gorgeous, the space was elegant, and the overall presentation, from music to snacks, was exquisite. And backstage? Well, I’ve already expressed my respect and awe for the Bridal Couture models. Don’t be fooled by the lace and flowers, these ladies are TOUGH.
Every minute of runway shows. Each runway presentation showcased something totally different, and the crowd loved all of it. And to the runway coordinators, stylists, retail liaisons, and CFW and Charleston magazine staff members in particular, I hope you are all napping on a beach in Jamaica right now near a tray of umbrella-adorned adult beverages.
Dancing on the runway at the Finale Gala. Seriously, could there have been a more perfect ending to a long week of blood, sweat, tears, and high heels? No way. It was like something out a movie, and will surely be one of my favorite memories for years to come!
As I sit here in my favorite jeans, old boots, and t-shirt, struggling with my high-fashion hangover, I continually ask, “No, really. What do I do now?” And therein lies the beauty of Charleston Fashion Week. CFW is a glamorous, high-energy, stunning presentation of Southeastern designers, local retail stores, regional modeling talent, and hardworking, dedicated individuals, and while it may be my absolute favorite part of the year, it is just that: an amazing presentation. Charleston’s fashion community is a truly dynamic force in this town, continuing to grow, develop, and flourish throughout the year. There is never a shortage of fashion-forward events in this town, and the more we support all things local, the greater both our community and Charleston Fashion Week will continue to become. Keep designing, modeling, shopping, and shooting, Charleston, and we’ll see you under the tents next year for an even bigger and more glamorous Charleston Fashion Week!
