GFW Sponsors AKM Mode: Asian American Designing

GFW 2012 is all about stimulating connections and bringing people together. That’s why we were so excited to be one of the sponsors for the UF Kaleidoscope Month fashion show! MODE: Asian Americans Designing Fashion featured three fabulous designers from across the country, bringing Asian American culture and fashion together. The night kicked off with the line Ann Hoang by Ann Hoang. The Texan designer showcased her classy line of cocktail dress and gowns. A lot of the designs had subtle cutouts that make the looks incredibly sexy yet sophisticated at the same time. Our favorite look was the bright orange jumpsuit with the open back—perfect for any Gator fashionista. Next down the runway came Homme by Dahae Kim. Male models strode down the runway in dark shirts and jackets with menacing (but hot!) stares. Kim said she was inspired by the dark, psychotic side of life, and she designs menswear because it’s more challenging for her. Personally, we’d design for men just to stare at them all day…

The show came to a conclusion with Thai Nguyen Couture. The ex-BCBG associate designer specializes in evening gown creations and boy, were they gorgeous. Nguyen’s collection featured sheer fabrics in gold, pale pinks, red and black. His intricate and sexilicious (yes, that’s a word) evening gowns left us drooling and panting for more. GFW was so thrilled to be a part of such an incredible event, and we look forward to being a part of it again next year!

For more information on UF Kaleidoscope month visit www.ufakmonth.com. And keep checking our blog and Facebook page for more exciting updates on GFW2012!

Rolling Up the Pink Carpet

How do we top a fabulous week of shows? Well there may have been a lack of performance and glitz, but the team, plus some, turned out to Sunday Funday brunch with an agenda to celebrate.

Bottomless mimosas and a smorgasbord of food at Café C erased the bags under our eyes and general “burnt-out stature” of the group. We mixed and mingled at the omelet station and loaded up on pancakes and crepes provided by the upbeat crew of Celebrations Catering staff.

A campaign toast that began with beaming smiles and venting about stress filled days that paid off, ended in tears as veteran team members reminisced about three dedicated years they had spent with their GFW family. Not a dry eye in sight to say the least. Big thanks went out from the designers to the intern team and lofty aspirations were made for future shows.


In fashion, quick recoveries are a MUST. The GFW group bounced right back into soaking up rays on the back porch of Café C and came to a mutual consensus to spend the rest of the day poolside. Because with all that show set-up who had serious time to devote to tanning? Off to the lap of luxury before the big brainstorming sesh for 2012…

Gala for the Arts: Benefitting Arts in Education

This season began our venture into philanthropy. Tables were adorned with white feather centerpieces that seemed to reach the ceiling and a runway was drawn around the banquet area to showcase Jacquelyn Brook’s new collection.

Our black-tie clad guests arrived intermittently. They were ushered through tables displaying donated pieces from prominent artists of the community and given the chance to place silent bids on them, as well as numerous gift packages. They dined in low, glittering light as models gracefully strolled aside them.

Jacquelyn sent models out adorned like jewels. Her vision showcased feathers fluttering from eyelashes and glittered cheeks. Guests first saw her signature mixed-print causal wear. Then came a stunning collection of ball-gown-esque, floor sweeping dresses that fit right in with the crowd.

It was an intimate setting that GFW has never provided before. Socialites were wined and dined and very few went home empty handed after a successful silent auction. Some toted gigantic pieces out the front door over the pink carpet and others will await winners at Neutral 7.

GFW2011 - Pretty in Pink! (carpet)

Gainesville Fashion Week begins! FINALLY, we felt like this day would never come.

Wednesday's kick off event was a great start to what promises to be an amazing season; with some quirks, like our hot pink take on a red carpet to match this year's theme.

We filled the levels of Sharab Lounge with our team, sponsors, staff mates, interns, artists, models, photographers, videographers, papparazzi, guests, live artists and more!

Photo by Mario Cornejo Negron

Our exhibit was curated in a 360 degree unit. Guests were encourage to start left and make the full circle right around the room while being serenaded by John J Jordan.

Some highlights on the route included: noms noms - sushi du jour from Rolls N' Bowls, sweet treats from the Truffle Cake Co. and The Flying Biscuit Cafe and our LIVE art area happening outside.

Evan Poirier (seen above) and Hector Galvez wowed the crowd creating their pieces on the spot.

Photo by Melanie Ling

Photo by Melanie Ling

Some of the artwork seen on Wednesday night will be up for silent auction on Friday April 8th at Gala for the Arts - a black tie evening benefitting Rocket for the Arts.

Click here to learn more about this non-profit supporting quality youth art education in Alachua County or click here to buy tickets for this event.

We continue the week with our first round of runway events Thursday April 7th at Villa East - 301 North Main Street. Tonight's line up includes music from Klarc Shepard, a LIVE performance from Pop Glow and designs from:

• 1oz
• Mesh
• Viscosity Vintage
• Emerging Designers Showcase featuring: Francine Elizabeth, Nikera Clothing & Jafari | Jahaghi
• Sui Generis
• Zella Machado Swimwear

DOORS Open at 6p.m. SHOW starts 7p.m.

INsite Cover Model Winner

Photo by Justin Duncklee

This year, we once again teamed up with media sponsor INsite Magazine for a cover model contest.

Sort of a "winner's choice" from the group of models we select for Gainesville Fashion Week. INsite gave us the scoop and a few photos of their winner Abigail Dixon.

Check out the HOT cover for their April issue (on newstands Wednesday) and a behind the scenes look at the photo shoot here.

Photo by Sean Kelly

Beautiful right? Remember you can meet all of our models, designers, planners, stylists and salons at the kickoff Red Carpet Art Exhibit taking place Wednesday April 6th at Sharab Lounge from 7p.m.

*Please note by invitation only*

Mikho: Back, Better and Studded

We caught up with Miguel Blanco, creator and mastermind behind the Mikho line - remember last year's HOT presentation at GFW? It was SMOKING hot!

So how does the New Yorker plan on topping last year's show? While he didn't reveal any secrets about Saturday night, he shared some insight as to how he got involved with GFW.

GFW: Briefly describe your line. How does Mikho Reconstructed differ from the line you showed last year, Miguel Karajito?
MB: IT'S COMPLETELY DIFFERENT. FOR STARTERS THIS YEAR I'M NOT DOING A LINE OF BATHING SUITS, THE LINE IS MOSTLY READY-TO-WEAR BUT THERE MIGHT BE SOME SURPRISES…

GFW: Of course! How did you get into design?
MB: MY BACKGROUND IS IN ADVERTISING AND DESIGN, BUT I'VE ALWAYS BEEN INTERESTED IN FASHION AND INTERIOR DESIGN AND TEND TO EXPLORE BOTH AREAS OF DESIGN QUITE OFTEN

GFW: What is the inspiration behind this season's collection?
MB: THIS YEAR'S COLLECTION DRAWS INSPIRATION FROM HUMANITY ITSELF, WHO WE ARE TODAY AND OUR IMPACT IN OUR SURROUNDINGS. IT SPEAKS OF HUMAN BEHAVIOR: EXCESS, OVERINDULGENCE, THIRST FOR POWER, BASICALLY THE DOWNFALL OF HUMANITY.

GFW: So who's wearing Mikho?

MB: 20-30'S SOMETHING, PROFESSIONAL BUT LOOKING FOR AN URBAN ALTERNATIVE FOR CASUAL COMFORTABLE GOING OUT CLOTHES.

Catch Mikho reCONSTRUCTED on our Saturday April 9th runway.

If those studded man panties are any indication of what Blanco's cooked up, you won't want to miss this year's show!

An exclusive GFW interview with Chris Clayton

Chris Cardi Couture has its roots in custom T-shirt design. Designer Christopher Clayton custom tailors tees according to his client’s measurements. The “couture” classification qualifies this line outside the realm of the average graphic tee that eventually gets tossed in the bottom drawer of most wardrobes.

Clayton has expanded his men’s line to incorporate American sensibilities, Italian fit and English attention to detail. Even with the addition of denim, cardigans, and vests Clayton says his v-neck tees are still the most coveted items he designs.

Here's an exclusive Q&A with Chris Clayton

GFW: How did you get involved with this year’s production?

CC: I actually attended last year's GFW by chance. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect; I didn't expect much at all. I was presently surprised by an eclectic mix of people, lifestyle and fashion. Gainesville, who would have thought! I knew then I had to be involved next time around.

GFW: So what's new from Chris Cardi Couture this season?

CC: New additions to the collection this season are accessories and soft luggage, short sleeve button ups, light weight slim cut hoodies as well as fitted cargo shorts.

GFW: Describe your the ideal client and their mantra.

CC: The individual that rocks Cardi is someone who is fashion savvy, navigates multiple social circles, travels, and is always up for an adventure or a quick getaway. The line is designed for the professional trendsetter worldwide.

GFW: Any hopes and dreams after your show in GFW?

CC: We are always looking at ways to increase our consumer base but the event has to be right. GFW isn't a household name just yet; but, the way it’s done and the attention it gets in Central Florida makes it the premiere fashion event for a fashion-starved and craved crowd.

GFW: Thanks! So other than participating with us, how do you spread the word about the Cardi lifestyle?

CC: We may do runway shows in the future but our marketing campaign is geared more so on product placement and getting our clothing on people wearing it in their everyday life. Word of mouth has been huge for my line and nothing generates better word of mouth than an extremely satisfied customer.

Join us Saturday April 9th to be immersed in the Chris Cardi Couture lifestyle and see his newest collection on the GFW runway. Tickets on sale here.

As Clayton would say...Live Fresh…Die Spoiled.

Photography from Chris Cardi Couture online - featuring Gainesville Fashion Week 2011 Model, Tian Sui

GFW Pink Out

Our GFW crew hit the streets of downtown Gainesville last night for our Pink Out promotion & bar crawl. Models, interns and directors danced their butts off as they passed out promo items to the crowd, some of our models made cameos and our photographers were there to capture the chaos.

Big thumbs up to Spannk for offering a special shot promotion in honor of our presence called the GFW Hot Shot! It definatly the finishing touch to our fantastic pink out promo.

Be sure to check out more photos from our PINK OUT on our Facebook page.

Our Final Dress Rehearsal

Its crunch time here at GFW. We officially had our last model rehearsal Wednesday at Villa East! Can you believe it? I sure can't!

Our models and designers joined together last Wednesday for one last run through for Thursday and Saturday's runway shows. Models got to experience for the first time how quickly they will have to switch their outfits by practicing their quick-changes and then rushing back to their positions in lineups.

After a LONG rehearsal, models received their awesome swag bags full of goodies from all of our sponsors and their official model badge! We appreciate everyone that donated supplies to us.

Huge thanks to Cafe C for feeding our models and hardworking staff at our dress rehearsal. The food was the delicious.

It's not too late to grab a ticket, we are still selling them on our GFW website so be sure to grab one before time runs out! !

How to WIN tickets to GFW

Some of us met yesterday and after months (and we mean months) of planning, we can't believe the big week is finally here! Though we start planning in September it's these final 10 days before Fashion Week that are the most exciting.

So how does one win tickets to the GFW runway events (if you haven't already bought them that is).

This year, there are a few fun options.

1. See a GFW road sign around town? We're giving a pair of tickets to the people who post a pic of our sign and it's location on our Facebook page. No repeat offenders though, the first person to post that location will win.

his photo comes from one of our models AJ Vanegas.

2. Our friends at 106.9KZY are also doing a ticket giveaway - they've got 15 PAIRS you can win along with some great music and a really funny morning show. Listen to their morning jock Kidd Kraddick from 8a.m. to 9a.m. for chances to win a pair.

Though not in the realm of winning but we still think it's pretty cool.

Guess what? GFW Tickets are today's special on Groupon - yup, we're in the big leagues now. So tell a friend to tell a friend.

I'm sure there's room somewhere in here for a Charlie Sheen reference. Heck, if someone posts a funny enough reply on Facebook - we might just give you a pair of tickets too. WINNING!

What to wear to Fashion Week!?!

We get this question quite often. Everyone wants to know what to wear to Fashion Week and more importantly where can you find it?

We recommend anything you feel comfortable and spectacular in; but, the lean is always towards cocktail attire for our events.

Going fancy takes some effort and sadly it is not the norm to get super dressed up in this town. But good news! If you aren't up for online shopping and road trips to the nearest shopping meccas Gainesville has a reasonable list of boutiques you should get to know.

One of them in particular is Mesh Boutique in Union Street Station downtown.

We met owner Muna Shadeed as a participant in the 2010 season, she joins us for another round this Spring. Muna gave us some great suggestions of pieces anyone can wear to GFW and beyond; because who likes forking out a ton of cash for a "one time only" dress?

She suggests this layered chiffon look; perfect for this warmer weather we're seeing. The dress is simple, but the silhouette is always stylish.

The rouching details (seen below) can cover up any "jiggly bits" you might be self conscious about. Plus the fun zebra pattern is flirty enough for evening, but not inappropriate for other occasions say...date night, brunch or a Spring/Summer wedding - we think it's a win!

Her other suggestion is this haltered, jeweled, lace number (you can see the detail in the top photo). This look is really effortless: the jeweled neckline eliminates dressing up that area, thicker black lace keeps it from being too sugary sweet. Pair with something sparkly on the feet and a great clutch (why not a bold red lip) and you're done!

Hope this gives you first-timers some direction. Check out this video on Muna and her store Mesh from our pals at CMC Apartments and catch them on the GFW runway Thursday April 7th at Villa East.

SPONSOR UPDATE: FloridaWorks

In between jobs? Not really finding the right fit of employees for your company? Here's the local solution.

FloridaWorks is the place where jobseekers and employers connect. Search for a job now at www.EmployFlorida.com

Jobseekers: We can assist you with your job search, placement services, help with resumes, professional networking, assessments, occupational training programs, technology training and more.

Employers: We can assist you with prescreening, job fairs, job posting and monitoring, lay-off aversion programs, lay-off assistance, ramp-up services and more.

SPONSOR UPDATE: Rolls'n Bowls

Rolls 'n Bowls is an innovative sushi restaurant in Gainesville that offers fresh traditional Japanese ingredients combined to create savory foods to satisfy any appetite.

Their concept embraces the freedom of choice in creating your own unique dish. Customers go through the sushi line as the chef asks what the customer wants in their roll, bowl or salad.

Check out their menu online or like them on Facebook to learn about great deals and promotions. Use foursquare? They offer great deals (like FREE edamame) when you check in, so go ahead, check 'em out today.

Word Hard. Play Harder!

Things got HOT as the sun set on Wednesday evening at Sharab Lounge.

Our participating designers joined us at model rehearsals to get an up-close look at our models and to choose which hotties will be rockin' the runway in their designs.

Get your tickets to the Thursday and Saturday shows here. Pre sale tickets are available until March 31.

Word of advice from an insider, tickets are going fast! So be sure to snag one quickly.

See more photos on our model selection rehearsal here.

That Saturday, we joined uber-student property The Estates to crash one of their infamous pool party weekends.

We co-hosted the event and made some new friends in the campus community.

Can anyone say "so so College?".

Now that we've taken a break to appreciate the student community with: beer, keg stands, noodles and inflatable dolls (yup) it's back to work for TEAM GFW as we are counting down TWO more weeks to Gainesville Fashion Week 2011.

See photos from the all-wet fete here