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CFW Tuesday: Emerging Design Semi-finalists
Photo gallery:
5:56 PM
I walk onto Marion Square, and people are already swarming around the tents. If the energy is this high outside, just image what it’s like backstage. I decide to check it out. Stilettos, hairspray, and makeup brushes are flying! The models are in various stages of hair and makeup, and I catch up with emerging designer Shan Keith’s model Amanda Franklin and Amanda deLeon’s model Brooke Hohman as finishing touches are applied.
6:17 PM
Amanda deLeon coaches her models on their runway walks, but she poses for a quick picture before her show. I trip over the train of a model’s gown, it’s clearly time for this klutz to check out the other side of the curtain. Thank goodness I’m not in a profession that condemns clumsiness, I am not jealous of these models right now!
6:42 PM
The crowd at CFW is so glamorous, I can’t stop people watching. As I chat with a few guests, I catch a glimpse of emerging designer Emily Bargeron. “Are you excited?” I ask. “I’m so nervous!!” she exclaims before dashing backstage. A voice comes over the loudspeaker and it’s time to take our seats, or in my case, battle it out in the media pit.
7:07 PM
Wow. I’ve just watched models rock Amanda deLeon’s amazing collection down the runway, and I can’t think of anything clever to say. I’m obviously not the only one who was impressed by her gorgeous sculptural garments, the crowd kept breaking into applause! Caroline Baker’s models are taking the catwalk now, and drama, femininity, and vibrant, eco-friendly materials rule under the tents. Her brilliant red gown takes the stage, and once again the crowd breaks out in applause.
7:38 PM
It’s the first break of the evening, and after mingling in the bar area, I head backstage for a quick check in before the next show. Organized chaos reigns supreme! Models are lining up, switching shoes, receiving last minute touch-ups, and I manage catch up with insanely busy CFW makeup artist Ashley Perryman. Before I can even ask her a question, she gushes, “Isn’t this amazing?!” My answer is definitely yes.
8:07 PM
I’ve just watched two amazing shows: Emily Bargeron and Jonathan Moore. Emily’s 70s inspired show had such fresh, fun energy! The models smiled, carried clever, eco-conscious picket signs (the best read “I recycle boys”), and flashed peace signs, but the clothes truly spoke for themselves. Jonathan Moore’s collection was equally beautiful, and had a relaxed, natural, and elegant feel.
8:30 PM
Second break and I’m backstage again and determined not to trip over anything... or anyone. I spot Shan Keith, and call out, “How do you feel? Are you excited? Nervous?” Shan grins and replies, “I’m ready to GO!!!” ...I’ll take that as a no?
9:07 PM
Shan definitely had no reason to be nervous. His spring-inspired collection receives a standing ovation! His first look was short, sassy dresses that played with volume, but Shan told me that his second look—long, flowing dresses—was his favorite. Swapnali Ahire’s unique, edgy show followed Shan Keith, and what a contrast! Attitude and drama rocked the runway, with looks that both surprised and captivated the audience. Fan favorites? The striking hooded garment and the breathtaking black dress with a thigh high zippered slit.
9:15 PM
What a night! The shows were incredible. Each designer was truly distinctive but utterly unforgettable. I can’t wait to see the Emerging Design Competition finalists on Saturday, but I have a week’s worth of stunning retail shows to keep me busy until then!
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