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Archive for the ‘Designers’ Category

Cocktails & Couture 2018: Apocalipstick

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on January 18, 2018 at 4:26 am

Cocktails & Couture’s Apocalipstick was more than an event, it was an experience that attendees are not likely to forget anytime soon, and members of the Tampa Bay Fashion Week team were there to partake!

The idea was to fiercely party until the world ends and we did exactly that (without the world ending, of course). Each room of the Ritz Ybor was lit with a different color and an accompanying signature drink.

Performers and models (or just super glamorous guests) mingled with attendees, helping to build excitement as well as curiosity – What exactly is going to happen tonight? Here we share a quick recap with you!

First, we were introduced to the lovely, fierce emcee, Power Infiniti. After Power Infiniti performed an awe-inducing dance number, we were promised that we’d have an amazing night.

DSC_0586Following up on their promise, Power Infiniti announced Beyond Borders Entertainment and the Tampa Bay Modern Dance Company who showed up and out. Their infectious energy spread, making even the most awkward among us do a little shimmy.

And that’s when the fashion show began!

Tampa Bay Fashion Week alum, Elizabeth Carson Racker, began her scene with one of her signature dresses. DSC_0631Sew Addicted + Spellbound Stitches followed with fur and leotard combos that reinforced the fierceness of Apocalipstick.

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Juliet Retro strutted out sporting vintage frocks with modern accents creatively closed out the first half of the show.

A jazzy musical duet by Anye Cole and Christopher Knolton, and a solo performance by Jessica Dianne greeted us after intermission.

Then Halle Elizabeth Couture resumed the fashion show as if it never ended, sporting eye-catching, punk rock-esque garbs. Kingsland by Kevin Arnett closed the night out wearing nothing but underwear and gas masks looking fierce until the world (or night) ends.

Those of you who attended can attest that Apocalipstick did not disappoint.

For those of you, who didn’t, you can follow the #CXC18 hashtag on social, and get a peek at what you missed!

And be on the lookout for Tampa Bay Fashion Week updates soon. After hitting the 10-year mark last year, we set new goals and plan to make it bigger than ever!

Follow us on social media ~ Twitter and Instagram @TBFashionWeek, on Facebook at: @tampabayfashionweek for updates.

Until next time,

~Jessica

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TBFW2017 Recap!

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on October 13, 2017 at 5:59 pm

This year, Tampa Bay Fashion Week entered the double-digits. We are 10-years-old people and if you didn’t catch us last week, we’ll catch you up on what you missed.

For those who don’t know, Fashion Week is a precious time where fashion week vets reconnect, newcomers network and we party in between. We’d love to say everything went off without a hitch because we’re just great but that would be fibbing.

We started the morning off with a prayer.

Why?

Well, because we’re a grateful bunch that believes in the power of the Almighty, but also because Hurricane Irma pushed our show two weeks back and we didn’t want any more problems.

As designers, models, volunteers, hair and makeup artists filed through and we ran into more hiccups, we sent God a couple more.

Backstage was a chaotic montage of hair, makeup and fittings. Models were practicing their runway poses and snapping photos for Instagram. Designers and retail brands were doing last minute fittings. The FWTB team members were shouting at each other over our walkie-talkies. In our defense, the music was on, guests had arrived and we couldn’t hear squat!

We were showing nine designers and retail brands in one night.

On one hand, we were in awe of ourselves because we started out showcasing local designers only. Then we grew to include national, then international designers. Now we were showcasing designers who’ve grown with us (shout out Elizabeth Carson Racker) and global brands (Banana Republic)!

On the other hand…did I mention we were showing nine designers and brands in one night? Not the most we’ve ever shown in one showing, but it has been awhile. And for some additional perspective, last year we showed five per day.

Understandably, more prayers entered the atmosphere.

Then the magic happened!

Take a peek at the smiling faces below.

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Go to our Facebook page, Fashion Week Tampa Bay to see the lovely garments that graced the runway. Pandora kicked off our show followed by Lilly Pulitzer, Fabletics by TechStyle, Sopho by Alexandra Bougadis and Ohlendorf, atelier by Wendy Ohlendorf. After a brief intermission, out walked Banana Republic, Dolce Couture by Melissa Dolce, Free People and Elizabeth Carson Racker.

When you have a moment, please be sure to show some love to our 2017 Trendsetter sponsor and runway show venue host, International Plaza and Bay Street, as well as all of our other sponsors who have made this year’s event possible. We also hope you’ll consider supporting this year’s beneficiary, My FairyGodfathers Foundation, whose mission is to inspire happiness, strength, and confidence in girls and women who have faced adversity, through the magical experience of beauty.

Thank you for celebrating 10 years of fashion with us and coming along our #fashionisastory journey! Until next year loves!

Ciao!

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An Interview With Melissa Dolce ~ #FashionIsAStory

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 18, 2017 at 2:36 am

Melissa Dolce

Melissa Dolce of Dolce Couture will make her debut on the Tampa Bay Fashion Week runway this fall, and we can’t wait to see what she brings to the stage! With a lifelong involvement in all forms of art and design, Melissa has a passion for creativity and is constantly searching for new and challenging endeavors to feed that passion. Known for her avant-garde sensibility and bold yet classy, confident designs, you’ll love getting to know more about Melissa and her story!

Gorgeous Melissa wearing her first designed dress ~ blue sequins for her prom!

What inspires you daily?
I’m inspired by everyday things of serendipity! I had a huge bird sitting outside my office window one day, that I couldn’t stop watching. So I decided to do a collection with feathers. Looking through my closet of “old stuff,” my 24 year old prom dress (my first design that I did and my grandma sewed for me) inspired me to do blue sequin garments! Thank goodness sequins have come a long way since then!

How did you pursue your career field?
I grew up a very artistic and creative kid. Typically exploring my creativity in ways that got me in big trouble by mom ~ drawing on everything in sight, cutting up my sisters clothes to look better… After several different types of design classes in college I fell in love with advertising and graphic design. I graduated from Indiana and moved all over the country (and out) working at several amazing companies as their Graphic Designer/Art Director.

How do you or your organization help the Tampa Bay community?
I volunteer in many different Tampa Bay organizations. Whether it’s working with children fighting cancer or handing out food to the homeless, it is so humbling and rewarding to help those in need. I also do pro bono graphic design work for charities whenever I can!

How do you encourage creative thinking?
I participate in several different area events showing my avant garde fashions. When people see the unique and creative designs they get inspired to think outside the box. There is no right or wrong when it comes to being creative, you just have to start!

If you won a “Best Of” award, in what category would you win? (real or made-up category)
Best dumb jokes.

A well-dressed person always has?
Confidence!

Describe your signature style in one sentence.
Bright, unique and a little edgy!

What piece of clothing do you wear every day or what item in your closet can you not live without?
Yoga pants! Besides wearing them to the gym daily, I need to be comfortable when I work on my fashion!

Original design creation by Melissa Dolce of Dolce Couture

Do you have a favorite designer or What celebrity is your style icon?
I don’t really have a favorite. I love to see all the unique styles that the celebrities wear to the Met Gala.

What’s your favorite fashion trend?
I don’t like following trends. I’m a fashion brat and do whatever I want 🙂

Speed Round
Less or More? Less
Favorite Color? Royal Blue
Favorite Store? Amazon (I oddly don’t like to go shopping)
Best spot to relax in Tampa? My backyard
Skinny Jeans or Bell Bottoms? Skinny Jeans
Heels or flats? Heels
Tie-dye, hot or not? Not
Dress, Skirt or Pants? Dress
Handbag, big tote, crossbody or tiny clutch? Clutch

Follow Melissa on Instagram: @dolcecouturefashions and Facebook.

New Dates! Rescheduling #TBFW2017

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 16, 2017 at 8:58 pm

Hi Fashion Lovers!

Hurricane Irma whizzed through Tampa Bay breaking trees, power lines and our planned week of fashion.

We can never be out done though.

So take out your pen and cross out your Tampa Bay Fashion Week plans for September 20-23, 2017. Then look at your calendar and cross out anything you have previously scheduled for October 4-7 because, ladies and gentlemen, that’s show time!

Our new dates for Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2017 are Oct. 4-7, 2017.

This isn’t what we expected for our 10th anniversary, but we’re rolling with the punches! This gives us all time to pitch in and do the important work of cleaning up the mess that Hurricane Irma has left, and we hope to serve as a welcome break when we all come together Oct. 4-7!

See ya there!

Until next time ~ Ciao!
~Jessica

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An Interview With Wendy Ohlendorf ~ #FashionIsAStory

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 14, 2017 at 2:06 am

Bicoastal Wendy Ohlendorf of Ohlendorf, atelier has made her mark in the world of fashion ~ from the Pacific Northwest to the Gulf of Tampa Bay. Wendy Ohlendorf is a lifelong artist, who combines her educational background in fine art and design with her love of vintage technique and textile to create modern, romantic, visually impactful works of wearable art. You’ll see her on the runway this year, and you’ll have a chance to learn  more about her fashion story in this video with familiar Tampa Bay scenery!

Follow Wendy on Instagram: @Ohlendorf_atelier and Facebook.

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An Interview With Elizabeth Carson Racker ~ #FashionIsAStory

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 6, 2017 at 4:21 am

Elizabeth Carson Racker

You’ll recognize Elizabeth Carson Racker from the Tampa Bay Fashion Week runways. A crowd favorite over the years, Elizabeth’s keen sense of style and dynamic personality sparkles on stage. In this interview, you’ll get to learn her story…

What inspires you daily?
My daily inspiration is pushing my business.

Original creation by Elizabeth Carson Racker Design

How did you pursue your career field?
At the age of 12 I attended my first Ebony fashion fair runway show. Having a chance to see all these amazing black women and men walk the runway wearing the most lavish garments changed my life. Leaving the show I wanted to be a model, designer, fashion producer; I wanted to do it all; so I did. Throughout middle school and high school I coordinated, produced, and modeled for many fashion shows. To my friends, I was their personal stylist and my closet was their closet. I was always pushing the boundaries of fashion “good and bad.” The pursuit of my career field started with Savannah College of Art and Design. SCAD allowed me to spread my wings and truly find where in the Fashion Industry I belonged. After graduating, I traveled with Ebony Fashion Fair as their featured Designer and Wardrobe Assistant.

How do you or your organization help the Tampa Community?
I believe in giving to my community, each year I donate my time and garments to non-profit and for-profit events within the Tampa Bay area.

If you won a “Best Of” award, in what category would you win?
Best Designer Show (Garments, Music, leave you wanting more)

A well-dressed person will always…
…wear the proper under garments, as the foundation is most important.

Elizabeth Carson Racker Design at New York Fashion Week

Describe your signature style in one sentence.
My signature style is bold, unique and simplistic.

What piece of clothing do you wear every day or what item in your closet can you not live without?
I have a ring that I wear every day and no it’s not a wedding ring… lol! My ring is silver moon shaped which has ivory, yellow and red amber stones. It’s a master piece and everything to me.

Do you have a favorite designer and/or what celebrity is your style icon?
My favorite designer is Donna Karen. Most recently Queen Latifah is my celebrity icon.

What’s your favorite fashion trend?
My favorite fashion trend is when something old/dated is made relevant and current to a younger generation. Like right now the blouse/leotards are everywhere now.

Speed Round
Less or More? More
Favorite Color? Purple
Favorite Store? Nordstrom
Best spot to relax in Tampa? Beach with my Dog “Miss Demi”
Skinny Jeans or Bell Bottoms? Skinny Jeans
Heels or Flats? Heels
Tie-Dye ~ hot or not? It can be hot
Dress, Skirt or Pants? Dress
Hand Bag, Big tote, Cross Body or Tiny Clutch? Big Clutch

Following Elizabeth on Instagram: @ecrdesigns and Facebook

 

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Designers Announced for Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2017

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Updates on August 17, 2017 at 2:04 pm

Ahem! We have a little somethin’ to share…the 2017 Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2017 designers and brands!

ECR designs

Elizabeth Carson Racker is returning to Tampa Bay Fashion Week for her fourth year. Constantly creating fresh and new silhouettes, this Tampa Bay-based designer knows what the modern day woman wants and always delivers.

The Dolce Couture Collection by Melissa Dolce will be making its debut at Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2017. In a class all by itself, Dolce pairs baseball tees with grass mini skirts and water pail hats with flowers sprouting out of it. Theatrical, bold and awe-inspiring, Dolce will put on a show we are sure to never forget.

Sopho by Alexandra Bougadis will be showing the Christi Collection, which combines leather craftsmanship with island flare. The line is inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle and culture. Already an international hotspot, Tampa Bay is ready for everything Sopho is going to bring.

After making its mark in the Pacific Northwest, Ohlendorf, atelier by Wendy Ohlendorf has returned to Tampa Bay and we’re thrilled! Drawing on her educational background in fine art and design, Ohlendorf’s tangible pieces express her ideas, romanticism and love for life.

 

Banana Republic is for men and women who make the most of every moment and opportunity. Their ability to make the simplest items seem so elegant is almost magical. Their contemporary classics and thoughtful design is iconic and we are glad they are returning to our runway.

 

 

Known for their on-trend designs, Fabletics inspires people to stay active in a variety of ways for all kinds of occasions. We’re excited to see their passion and energy on the runway!

Free People is for the eclectic, worldly woman with a restless soul. Rooted in femininity, courage and spirit, Free People expresses an important message through their clothing and Tampa Bay Fashion Week can’t wait to hear it!

Lily Pulitzer’s bright, colorful pieces are easily recognized in today’s sea of neutrals and nudes. No matter the weather, using bright prints and pinks they always bring the sun and fun on the runway.

Pandora’s jewelry always draws a breath of awe from us. Their handcrafted pieces serve as timeless love links to family and friends. Made with genuine materials and stones, Pandora is sure to put a twinkle in your eye.

We are counting down the days until we see this fantastic designers and brands on the runway! Learn more about the designers and brands here: http://www.fashionweektampabay.com/designers2017

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Signature Looks & Tees

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends on June 29, 2017 at 5:11 am

What keeps us feeling cool and light on hot, Tampa Bay summer days? Can be dressed up or down? And can be worn by everyone from newborn babies to senior citizens?

Signature or graphic tees!

Signature or graphic tees can give us the simple luxury of throwing an outfit together without having the ‘thrown together’ look. They allow us to be lazy and look fabulous while doing so!

Simple and expressive, signature tees’ versatility are what makes them so great.

Paired with sandals and linen pants, signature tees make a casual-cute, summer look.

Paired with an A-line skirt, tights and slingback flats, signature tees are dressy and can be worn at any cocktail hour.

We had the pleasure of attending the Flora 2017 fashion show, and we saw some hot statement tees from the House of Gam.

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Power

The shout out to world-renowned designers or powerful (no pun intended) stand-alone messages are simplistic yet eye-catching.

Signature tees’ uncanny ability to communicate messages to the world around us is why it’s so fashion forward and a staple in our closet.

It allows us to be (read: imagine) where we want to be:

And impart life lessons like this one:

Easy come, easy go signature tee neiman marcus

Easy Come, Easy Go Cotton Tee (Neiman Marcus)

And become new fans of world famous bands:

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Junkfood KISS Concert Tee, Nordstrom

(By the way, all three aforementioned tees can be found at International Plaza and Bay Street, Tampa Bay Fashion Week’s trend-setting sponsor!)

Signature tees are a great way to express yourself, so invest in a few that represent you. Not only will it expand your outfit choices, it will tell the world a little about you.

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TBFW 2016 Event Highlights & Recap

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 29, 2016 at 2:47 pm

First things first, we want to thank everyone who joined us during Tampa Bay Fashion Week! We drank wine, ate sweets, saw some beautiful clothes and truly partied into the sunset.

If you couldn’t make it, do not feel left out because we’re going to fill you in on all the deets. For those of you who did, let’s bask in that week again together.

Fashion Week Tampa Bay 2016 officially launched Wednesday, Sept. 21, with the Sip & Shop Soiree.

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There were some fantastic accessories brands and a few designers from this year’s show selling exclusives at The Hideaway ~Downtown Tampa. We shopped and sipped the night away and woke up just in time to attend Fashion Photos & Prosecco the following day, Thurs, Sept. 22.

Located at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, fashion photos illuminated the room as we enjoyed lovely red velvet Sprinkles cupcakes with Prosecco and listened to a presentation with Leslie Joy Ickowitz, VERTICAL Tampa Bay’s founder and editor-in-chief.

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We also saw the Jerry Uelsmann: Undiscovered Self photo exhibition, whose use of negatives captured the eye. The exhibit is still there so if you get a chance, check it out!

We spent the night at NOVA 535 for the Swanky Soirée. It was a beautiful night, filled with food and drinks to benefit Brookwood Florida.

Our first fashion show was Friday, Sept. 23 and showed in this order:

· Pandora opened the show and reminded us of the infinite ways we can wear jewelry. They literally lit up the runway.

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· Lilly Pulitzer was colorful and flirty. Their new line was full of pinks, blues, and cream colors and everything was Florida-sun ready. Definitely a brand to explore!

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· Free People is for the free-spirited and unique. They made beautiful use of earth tones and gave many of us ideas of what to wear (and who to wear) this season.

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· Floridita is for the mermaid in you. These intricately designed swimsuits caught everyone’s attention, along with the custom-made accessories. Beautifully-made designs, they definitely made a statement!

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· Sanford Brown –IADT School of Design Student Showcase featured students Smyrne Charles, Joshua Duck, Lakesha Johnson and Rachel Ternival who all proved the talent brewing in Tampa Bay can not go unnoticed. Each student had their own niche, making it an eye-catching showcase.

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· Elizabeth Carson Racker closed Friday night’s show with a fashionable, socio-political statement. Every article of clothing represented a facet of America’s population and assigned labels. With Beyonce and Kendrick Lamar playing in the background, there was no way you could miss this stylish call for unity.

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The following day, Saturday, Sept. 24, we showed:

· Ally B. Swim whose hand-made, vintage swimwear are made for you to be one with the water, in style. The lace, mesh and pattern combinations are bold and appropriate for every shape and size.

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· Athleta provides stylish active wear for the high-performance woman. Their ensembles can be worn in and out of the gym, perfect for the active, on-the-go woman. Truly athletic wear for she!

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· Madame Adassa by Marsha Vacirca was very sensual and feminine. Each garment was intricately designed and made to stand out. Created to exude the confidence every woman possesses, these dresses brought Madame Adassa’s passion to life.

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· Banana Republic reminded us of the beauty of contemporary classics. Very versatile, these pieces let us endlessly mix and match. Each look captures the modern day woman and man, and reminds us why we love Banana so much.

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· Tracy Negoshian patterned dresses embraces women’s natural curves. The garments fell beautifully on each diverse model on stage. Comfortable enough to be worn anywhere and sophisticated enough to be noticed everywhere, these dresses were made for everyone.

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· Neiman Marcus closed our second and final show of 2016 and they were scorching hot! Every article of clothing was a stand alone piece, yet Neiman’s found a way to put them all together flawlessly. Absolutely stunning and definitely gave us a reason to stop by the store.

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The whole week was absolutely fantastic. And we couldn’t do it without the participation of all you! We thank everyone who came out to support us and everyone who took a part in the 2016 #TBFW event!

Shout out to the designers, brands, models, and hair/make-up who brought beauty to the runway, and all of the volunteers who helped to bring it all together. The sponsors who supported us throughout the whole event, we appreciate all of you and can’t wait to do this whole thing again next year!

Until next time,

~Jessica

Party & Fashion, Party in Fashion!

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 16, 2016 at 1:38 am

Say it with us, “Party and Fashion, Party in Fashion!” Tampa Bay Fashion Week is right around the corner and if you couldn’t tell by now, we are very excited! It’s the first time we will be showing designers alongside retail brands, and it will all be going down at International Plaza and Bay Street. We have fantastic events planned, so pull up your calendar and get ready to plug in some dates (if you haven’t done so already!)

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Fashion Week Tampa Bay officially kicks off 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 21, at the Sip & Shop Soiree. Located and hosted by one of our lovely sponsors, The Hideaway-Downtown Tampa, this is an event to network with fashion industry professionals, enjoy drink specials, raffle prizes, and shop with local designers and accessories brands. A free, 2-hour event, this exhibitor boutique features local businesses that support a fashion-forward Tampa Bay. Peep the vendors here.

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Photo by Susan Jeffers

From 11 a.m.–1 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22, we will have our Fashion Photos and Prosecco event. Located at the home of another lovely sponsor, Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, we invite you to Step into The Cube in downtown Tampa to experience fashion photography with prosecco and cupcakes on the side. The third floor will be reserved for an exclusive members-only experience with Leslie Joy Ickowitz, VERTICAL Tampa Bay’s founder and editor-in-chief, delivering a presentation on the fashion photography featured in the magazine, along with behind the scenes stories about select photo shoots. For FMOPA museum members, the event is free, and for non-members its $10, but you can join as a member in advance at fmopa.org.

Nova535 Event Space

Nova535 Event Space

Join us later in the evening from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at NOVA 535 for the 7th annual Swanky Soirée event. It’s an evening of fabulous food, flavorful wines, flaming coffees, decadent desserts and more, all benefiting Brookwood Florida. Brookwood Florida provides a unique, life-changing program for non-pregnant, non-addicted, at-risk girls between the ages of 13 and 20. Price tag is $150, and you can purchase tickets here.

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Our first runway show will be held Sept. 23, Friday night. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Located at International Plaza & Bay Street, the designer line up is:

We will be right back at it Saturday late morning, at International Plaza & Bay Street. Doors open at 11 a.m. and the second runway show starts at 12 p.m.

The designer line up is:

Seats for both dates are sold out, but standing room is available at no cost to you! Just grab your tickets here.

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Also on Saturday, Sept. 24 at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., we will host Kid Couture Workshops at Glazer Children’s Museum. The kids run this event so you must have a child to attend. It’s the Glazer Children’s museum 6th birthday and they’re celebrating with free admission. There will be fun workshops, stylish crafts and more so grab your cute kids and enjoy some family-friendly fun.

Can you see why we’re so excited? With this jam-packed itinerary of events, we will be partying into the sunset!

See you soon!

-Stylista Jessica

 

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