There was a time when I believed all high-fashion magazines had to be New York-based. To my surprise, that all changed the first time I scanned the pages of VERTICAL Tampa Bay.  This local high-fashion wonder includes stunning ads for high-end department stores such as Neiman Marcus, breathtaking layouts  for editorials, invigorating articles and photo shoots that are more than worthy of any Conde Nast publication.

The most recent summer issue features a wonderful swimsuit editorial along with beauty tips, refreshing recipes and designer ads so vibrantly colorful, you may think you are dreaming.  This virtual magazine is truly amazing and even offers a complimentary subscription.

The face behind the fabulous?  Leslie Joy Ickowitz, a distinguished member of the Tampa Bay publishing community is the driving force behind Tampa’s first virtual magazine and certainly possesses the talent and ambition to set the fashion standard for Tampa Bay.

With delightful pages of fashion to accompany the much anticipated Fashion Week, I can’t help but wonder: Could Tampa Bay be the new NYC?  Take a look for yourself, and get VERTICAL!