Jewelry Designer Spotlight: Jurney Jurray

We adore our jewelry designers and appreciate their support!

Family-owned and operated, Jurney Jurray produces unique and handcrafted jewelry. From drop earrings to cuff bracelets, many pieces contain materials such as shells, feathers, stones, glass….and everything in between. We can’t wait to see the models sparkle while wearing Jurney Jurray’s  distinct collection on Wednesday, April 3.

Visit http://www.jurneyjurray.com to view and purchase jewelry.

Jewelry Designer Spotlight: Stella and Dot

We adore our jewelry designers and appreciate their support!

Feminine with a bit of edge, Stella and Dot accessories are among the most coveted. Commonly seen on celebrities and hit television shows like Gossip Girl, the boutique-style jewelry is sold exclusively through in-home Trunk shows and online. Craving new arm candy for spring, we're thrilled for Stella and Dot to be featured on Wednesday, April 3 at Gainesville Fashion Week 2013. Unique, bold and oh so trendy, the collection is a must-see. 

Visit www.stelladot.com for looks and Trunk show information.

Designer Spotlight: Jacquelyn Brooks

We adore our designers and appreciate their support!

GFW is pleased to announce that designer Jacquelyn Brooks will be showcasing her collection this year.

Jacquelyn Brooks is a Gainesville native, and she is a professionally accredited fashion designer who graduated from Florida State University.

Her dreams of bringing high fashion to Gainesville came true in 2007 with the opening of her own design and tailoring business on University Avenue.  Her company, Jacquelyn Brooks Designs, works with women in the local community to design custom wedding gowns, formal attire and her expanding collegiate dress collection.

www.jacquelynbrooks.com

http://www.facebook.com/jacquelynbrooksdesigns

Jacquelyn Brooks’ company is located at:

1636 W University Ave #A, Gainesville, FL

(352) 375-6462

The Final Round: Callbacks

Congratulations to the 106 models that made it through to Callbacks last night! The entire GFW staff was blown away by the abundance of natural talent that waltzed through Cellar’s 12 elegant double doors. It’s going to be a tough cut – I wouldn’t want to be in those judges’ shoes.

But we’ve put the casting decision in the right hands. Our expert panel of judges arrived early and ready to work, knowing exactly what they looking for in a 2013 Gainesville Fashion Week model. Meet our fantastic lineup:

Keith Watson, owner of Keith Watson Events, was interested to see the talent Gainesville had to offer. He and his company love fashion, and while this is the first time judging models in Gainesville, he has previous experience with beauty pageants. Keith was looking for girls and guys who moved “extremely well” and had “great stage presence.”

In addition to helping us cast the show, Associate Publisher for HOME Magazine Megan DeGance was scouting out models with a unique look for an edgy editorial feature. Her criteria for a model? “Must be malleable and open to craziness.”

The Gators in the building went wild when they saw some of UF’s nationally ranked basketball players stroll in. GFW judge veterans Patric Young and Will Yeguete had such a great time last year that they brought Kenny Boynton and friend Corey Gamble to experience it for themselves. Admitting how much he enjoyed the show last year (it was his first fashion show ever!), Patric said that coming back to help was a “no brainer.” Typically dressed in orange-and-blue, Will is looking forward to seeing the new designs in April. Kenny was thrilled to try something new while Corey was excited to see girls model. They all have similar taste in clothes – they’re big fans of Express and Polo – so it’s not surprising that they also agreed on the qualities of a good model: attitude and charisma. “Like you know you look good,” Patric added.

And we can’t forget Albey Coronel, our wonderful GFW co-founder and producer. Even though he was feeling a little under the weather, he didn’t let it show, arriving smiley and stylishly in a leather jacket – the clear GFW staff trend of the evening. Already a pro, he took his place at the end of the judge’s table, looking confident in finding the perfect modeling cast.

As the judges took their seats and uncapped their pens, the music began thumping and signaled the start of the walks. The callbacks required two walks, one dressed casually and another sporting a bathing suit. One by one, 106 models strutted down the hardwood floors to the beat, striking a fierce pose and staring down their judges. Distracted by the girls’ long limbs and impressive outfit choices, I became more envious as each girl stomped by. Confidence and individual personalities shone through as the girls showcased their signature walks; some were flirty while others were downright edgy. The guys were just as awesome as the girls. Mastering the cool “dude walk” expected of male models, they all could have been mistaken for professionals. They were also dressed to impress, knowing how to make a simple pair of jeans look special by pairing them with sweaters, loose-fitted t-shirts and combat boots. And they clearly weren’t shy during the bathing suit round as they nonchalantly showed off their toned physiques.

The whole time, the judges were coy and professional, jotting down notes and only pausing for a quick sway to the music. It was an amazing night full of dancing, posing and mingling, especially for the GFW staff! While we’re sad to lose some bold and beautiful models, we’re also excited to narrow down our list and begin preparing for the incredible events to come.

Keep on the lookout for information and updates on our sponsors, talent (including designers!) and upcoming events. Hope you’re as excited as we are!

- Alyssa Fisher 

Sponsorship Spotlight: LAE Beauty

We adore our sponsors and appreciate their support!

 Exams, work and a cloudy winter have left us stressed and pasty. For a revitalizing lift, check out LAE Beauty, Florida’s premiere MediSpa and tanning salon. Located around the corner from Oaks Mall, LAE offers a buffet of services including custom airbrush spray tanning, teeth whitening, Botox, medical weight loss, endermologie, waxing and facials. In addition to sponsoring our event, LAE will be donating 20 percent-off coupons, helping to make Gainesville the most beautiful city in Florida.

Make an appointment at:

Phone: (352) 331-9693 – Email: laebeautyinc@live.com

618 NW 60th Street, Suite I

Gainesville, FL, 32607

The Recap: GFW Walking Clinic at Cellar 12

We all brush it off as a cliché quote, but after last night’s walking clinic, the bold potential models proved that practice really does make perfect.

A little apprehensive about the turnout, we were thrilled to see so many people filing into Cellar 12, prepared to master the art of the runway walk. About 30 model hopefuls of all shapes and sizes waited in the rustically whimsical special events venue, posing for pictures and soaking in the pulsating music before turning their attention to the seasoned model coaches.

Social Media intern Niko Pifferetti joined models Heather Jones, Sarah Parmenter and Nodira Abdukhamitova as they demonstrated how to properly walk down a runway and pose.

“We’re going over the basics – stand up straight, keep your eyes fixed in the center, how to walk keeping one in front of the other and hold poses so the photographer has time to shoot the outfit,” Heather said, who has been involved with GFW for four years.

 Soon enough the participants were able to apply what they learned, bravely strutting across the hardwood floors in front of the entire GFW staff. Between Sarah actively reminding the girls to slow down and Niko’s great tips for the guys’ “dude walk,” the prospective models got into the spirit and improved with each turn. The poses continued to get fiercer; one girl even whipped off her cherry red blazer at the end of her walk, receiving enthusiastic cheers from the staff and veteran models.

With so much excitement, talent and fashion in the room, we can only imagine how successful the Casting Call will be on Sunday.

But here’s an important tip for all you aspiring supermodels: Don’t forget your heels! 

-Alyssa

INsite Music and Fashion Night!

Thursday, April 12 was all about INsite, all about fashion and all about music. To sum it up, it was a night of our favorite things! It was the first night of runway shows for GFW 2012. After some mingling, everyone took their seats and the shows began.

Maghan McDowell of INsite Magazine was the emcee for the night. She looked absolutely stunning and effortlessly introduced the designers. The night's headliner and Project Runway season 9 contestant, Laura Kathleen, is a friend of Maghan's from their intern days in New York City. It was such a special evening for them, especially when Laura's designs hit the runway...but we'll get to that in a bit!


The first show of the night was The 10z Project, led by Albey Coronel. When The 1oz Project took center-stage, it was clear that color was of high importance. It was all about making a statement. Sometimes, literally. Check out our photos from The 1oz Project show and see for yourself!



Next was Levels Boutique, which Maghan hinted might have a store coming to Gainesville (our fingers are crossed)! We loved the trendy urban vibe from Levels Boutique. Color blocking was a major point for the show. We're so glad this is still on trend! We could see these pieces on any chic Gainesville girl on a fun night downtown, couldn't you? Check out the photos from the show!



Nothing made us want to "get a ring on it" like the Solutions Bridal show. The wedding gowns and even bridesmaids dress were drop dead gorgeous. Gone are the days of ugly bridesmaids dresses, these looks were absolutely chic and elegant. The models looked marriage-ready walking down the runway, I won't lie, I almost got emotional! Ladies, look at the Solutions Bridal photos and tell me you don't want to wear one of these gowns!!

Since the evening was a night of music as well as fashion, it's only fair to mention that DJ Klarc Shepard was spinning all night long for every show!!! He's played for us several times before, and we just love him! So much fun and such a talented guy! We also heard live music from Janna Pelle & the Half Steps, an awesome blues and pop band straight out of the Univeristy of Florida! Read more about their story on INsite Magazine's website!



Back to the fashion, Macy's was up next! As Maghan told us, they wanted to take us on vacation. We were so ready for that!! The beachy looks made us wish we had our toes in the sand sipping on [insert fruity drink of choice here]. We may be biased, but the guy's looks were pretty stellar. Can you say abs? Go see for yourself...brace yourself, though!



Francine Elizabeth was up next, and wait until you learn all about her...she debuted her line last year at GFW 2011, on her 18th birthday. She taught herself everything she knows and hand-makes everything. We can't to see more from her, especially after she attends SCAD, starting this Fall! Her looks were so edgy, yet completely wearable. Her color story looked fabulous on the models, look and prepare to be amazed...don't forget, it's HAND-MADE!



Last but definitely not least, was our headliner: Laura Kathleen! She is as wonderful and sweet in person as she is talented! We were just blown away by her designs. You can't help but feel empowered, fierce and on fire in one of her looks...and the models proved that. Take a look! Personally, I felt like I was back on the streets on Manhattan, there's was just an overall city-chic vibe that gave me chills!

Don't miss the Gala for the Arts tonight and the next set of runway shows. It's truly a stunning experience that you won't forget!

-Lauren

GFW: Defining a Production Through Numbers

The beginnings of the GFW DNA are rooted in a unifying spirit aiming to bring the community together through a common conviction for all things fashion. This vision emerged from a humble design studio in the heart of Gainesville. Albert Coronel, creative director at neutral7 design group, funneled his entrepreneurial spirit into producing the area’s first all-encompassing production.

Through the years creative connoisseurs have flocked to GFW for the wide variation of talent that falls under its hood. Fashion is a given, but since inception in 2008, GFW has incorporated music, art, philanthropy, special events and partnerships into its equation. The production’s second year held a fall and spring showcase, earning GFW recognition and esteem within the community. Turn the calculator on to break down the production and you’ll see a meager, but promising three designers in the first season. This year, 14 designers and boutiques are signed on to grace the runway at Villa East.

Different additives have been thrown into the equation since 2008. Local designers have been at the core, as GFW builds a following and establishes recognition alongside the artists it propagates. Starting in 2010, New York based designer, Miguel Blanco and a Columbian designer duo coined “Sironna Swimwear” joined the GFW mix. Audience expansion followed suit, with an increase from 600 attendees to 1,500 in 2010.

GFW also draws models and production staff from the rising talent pool in Gainesville. Shed the facad of colorful bubble graphics and numbers, and our workforce emerges. This is where GFW distinguishes itself among other fashion shows. An internal structure focuses around producers Albert Coronel and Tiffany Williams, with a team drawn from the rising talent at the University of Florida. A student co-producer, who works hand-in-hand with the oh-so-savvy business professionals, is joined by a team of specialized directors and interns to orchestrate the spring event. GFW has built up a team of 36 staff through the years, allowing more realms of event management to be added. Directorships focus on talent, sponsorships, promotion, event management, model coordination, media and design.

Pop your head into a Tuesday night team meeting and you’ll overhear teammate breakout sessions, infused with the spontaneous inside joke aside because – hey – only a GFW intern could understand. After a year’s buildup and the final reprieve come fashion week wrap-up, the team typically spends roughly equal time around town in celebratory mode and then they’re off focusing on new ventures or tackling next year’s showcase. It’s why they’ve set out for lofty futures globetrotting to London and Paris Fashion Weeks and working in various fields for Vogue, Urban Outfitters and prestigious firms in New York City and Miami. Co-producer, Kristi Desoiza is in the process of scouring Miami for jobs in advertising management.

“Being part of the GFW expansion during college has opened my eyes to what’s outside of textbooks and Weimer Hall,” DeSoiza said. “I think I speak for the whole team when I say we’re going to dominate our first jobs.”

Flavia Cervantes, once-model-director-turned-marketing-guru-for-Urban Outfitters, asserts that GFW played an instrumental role in framing her perspective on youth culture and trends, especially understanding what young, creative people want from fashion and the creative lifestyle concept.

Next in the quest for a balanced equation was substantial and recognizable branding. Neutral7 redefined each showcase through different lenses like 2010’s “Destination” and 2011’s “Celeb Gossip.” This year the staff members, many of which have defined their undergraduate years working for the production, are finding nostalgia appropriate. As they look back on GFW history, 2012’s theme of “Fashion Mathematics” allows them to breakdown the roadmap of GFW and see work concretized into growth through numbers. Thus far, the team is celebrating the addition of Project Runway designer Laura Kathleen to Thursday’s lineup and recognition by international fashion aggregate, Fashion Politique. After a year’s worth of planning, the team anticipates topping its own track record with expansions each season.

Curious as to how GFW breaks down by numbers for each season? Checkout the newest addition to the design portfolio - the infographic in the HOME Magazine's April Edition.

We hope to see you for what promises to be the most diverse showcase to date!

Get your fashion on Gainesville,

Kasi Martin

Model Rehearsal and the 2012 Mixer!

Last night was our second to last model rehearsal. It feels like just yesterday we were preparing for the Casting Call, but here we are 2 weeks away from FASHION WEEK 2012!


As per usual, the rehearsal was held at Sharab Lounge, one of our favorite spots downtown.

Our DJ filled the air with music as the models practiced their walks for one of the last times. It’s imperative that by this time, we’re perfecting minor things in their walk and posing. The models came out in full-force and showed us they are runway ready!


Sharab was so great to host us for this rehearsal, among so many others. We’re grateful for their hospitality and participation in this year’s Gainesville Fashion Week!


After the rehearsal at Sharab, we headed across the street to ZUZU for our Mixer!

We’re all been working hard - the models, the team, the designer, the sponsors, the media, even our fans and friends! Last night we took some time out to just enjoy each other’s fabulous company.

The mixologists at ZUZU made that even easier for us by stirring up our new favorite drink, the Fashion Passion. It was a fruity little cocktail that had us sipping and socializing all night long! The entire evening was a great chance for everyone to meet and really get to know each other before these final weeks.

Among the models and team members we had designers and sponsors in our midst. The Macy's representative, Natalie had swag bags for the models with goodies and coupons. Director of Communications for HOME Magazine, Megan DeGance was there along with other media sponsors, HerCampus University of Florida president Allison Banko and event team member Ashley Edmonston. Designer Francine Elizabeth attended along with our friends from Solutions Bridal Designer House and of course Albey Coroney representing The 1oz Project.


Thank you again to Sharab and ZUZU for hosting our events last night! We couldn’t do Gainesville Fashion Week without you!

-Lauren

Artist Spotlight: Tony Feria

Tony Feria, 23, owner of Zombie Vinyls, met up with us for an exclusive interview just a few weeks before his second appearance for Gainesville Fashion Week 2012. Inspired by music, Zombie Vinyls does what no other form of art has done: "Brings dead music back to life." Here's a little of what he had to say about his artwork, inspirations and GFW2012!

Q. How would you describe your art to someone that hasn't seen it before?

A. Tony explained his work to us in full detail. The color schemes for most of his work are based on various patterns, neons and designs . "Basically if you can think of mixing art and music together and featuring an artist's logo on a large vinyl that pretty much sums up my work."

Q. What inspires your creativity behind your designs? Was their a certain scenario in your life that made you get into your art?

A. Tony's inspiration for Zombie Vinyls was a duo-idea between him and his friend. They thought of an idea of mixing spray paint, vinyls and music. The first vinyl they created was a John Lennon. After realizing the potential to finetune their craft; they started to receive recognition from their friends, and before they knew it, Tony was on his way to start selling merchandise on tour with Identity.

Q. How long have your been doing art?

A. He explained that his favorite part of art of taking a creative thought and making it into something tangible. "I've been drawing all of my life and i've always liked art," Tony said. "I think its great how someone can think of something organically and make it into something tangible and be holding it later, absolutely mind-blowing."

Q. When did you begin your company, Zombie Vinyls?

A. According to Tony, Zombie Vinyls has been around now for 2 to 3 years and has slowly evolved a lot since its inception. He hopes to continue on the venture with his company and move out to the west coast upon graduating from the University of Florida this spring.

Q. What got you interested in the idea of art on vinyls?

A. "Because it captures what the art is really about, music," he said. Tony used this metaphor during his interview that brought out his hometown of Miami some love. "Its like painting Lebron James on a canvas or basketball, it just makes sense."

Q. What are you looking forward to the most this year for GFW 2012's art show?

A. "I'm excited to see all of the different artist this year has to offer." "But honestly, what I look forward to the most is going to support one of my best friends Co Producers, Kristi Desoiza." -- Sweet guy and artist isn't he?

Q. Any advice you want to share with young aspiring artist?

A. "The difference between someone who has ideas and one that doesn't is one who actually puts them into action and make it tangible," he said. "Think less, GO DO!"

Be sure to check out Tony and Zombie Vinyl's at Gainesville Fashion Week 2012, Wednesday April 11. Buy your tickets now! And pre-order your very custom own Zombie Vinyl here!!

Interview conducted by:

Alina Torres

Sponsorship Alert: Complete Nutrition

Fitness goes hand in hand with fashion. We all have to look good under the fabulous clothes we wear, right? That's how the GFW crew and our sponsor Complete Nutrition see things!

Complete Nutrition is the local go-to store if you want to be in the best shape of your life. They help you with your personal health and fitness goals, whether it's losing weight, gaining muscle or just finding the self confidence in you! That's what fuels our models down the runway - self confidence and fierce clothes!

Complete Nutrition open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The store front is located in the Oaks Mall, 6327 W. Newberry Rd. Gainesville, FL 32605. You can reach them by phone at 352-872-5752 or with the click of button, check out their Facebook page!

-Lauren