Designer Spotlight: Macy's

We adore our designers and appreciate their support!

The beloved department store will be revealing some of its newest looks during Gainesville Fashion Week 2013. Geared toward men and women of all ages, shapes and sizes, Macy's carries the most in-style and budget-friendly looks of the season. Make sure to drop by the local Macy's in the Oaks Mall. 

6671 Newberry Road

Gainesville, Florida 32605

Phone: 352-333-2300

Designer Spotlight: Tanya Brown

We adore our designers and appreciate their support!

We are thrilled to announce that Tanya Brown will be showcasing her designs on Sat. April 6 at Gainesville Fashion Week 2013.

Born in Gainesville, TanyaB graduated from the International Academy of Design and Technology in 2009 with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Fashion Design and Merchandising. The up-and-coming designer's eclectic, trendy style can be rocked by women of all ages.

Finding the Perfect Cast

After long nights promoting in midtown and downtown, bombarding social media outlets with hashtag-GFW and nervously handing out hot cards to attractive passers-by, our Model Casting Call finally arrived!

Interns and directors ushered in a plethora of high heeled and chiseled potential models from 12 to 5 pm at our neutral7 offices.

Fresh-faced and excited, models handed in applications and fees to interns at our tent. As they walked into the building, they took multiple headshots and many cheeks flushed pink when male models decided to show off perfect six packs for the photographer. 

 Next came the measurement station. Models were measured from head to toe by the bubbly group of interns who barely batted a well-mascaraed eyelash about measuring inseams. 

 Finally, it was time for Gainesville’s hottest to strut their stuff on the runway. Judged by a panel of directors and interns, each model was given a critique and asked to pose, pivot and repeat. 

 Phew! Five hours, four boxes of pizzas, three-dozen donuts, and countless cups of coffee later, the Gainesville Fashion Week team is more excited, and probably more caffeine-addicted, than ever before. We can’t wait for callbacks on Wednesday at 7 pm at Cellar 12, and don’t forget our make up Casting Call is tomorrow from 1 to 4 pm!

So excited for what’s to come,

- Roberta and Alyssa

GFW Loves Simons and Cantina

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Everyone in Gainesville should know what a “Hot card” is after this past week. 

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A rather ingenious viral marketing strategy, the hot cards not only pump people up for GFW, but also they also invite recipients to werk their hotness at our Model Casting Call this Sunday at Neutral 7.

We handed them out in Turlington Plaza during peak class time and in two of Gainesville’s hottest spots: downtown at Simon’s and midtown at Cantina. It was an exacting task to reach out to all of the beautiful people here in Gainesville, but someone had to do it! And trust us, we’re glad we did.

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Essentially, a black-clad intern randomly approaches an attractive and stylish girl or guy, tells them just how fabulous they are and gives them a card. A little creeptastic, but ohsomuchfun we can’t even explain. And it works.

On Thursday we promoted at Simon’s, where we began around 10 p.m. and undoubtedly started the party. We mingled, posed for pictures and handed cards out to the cutest people. It was such a great time that we don’t think those who were hot-carded will ever forget us approaching them, even if they don’t show up to the Casting Call (although we can’t think of why they wouldn’t). It was classic GFW.

However, promoting at Cantina took things to a never-before-seen level. Per usual, hot cards were handed out, pictures were taken in front of our step-and-repeat banner, but then…

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…that happened.

“That” is several LCD screens designed by Smart Cast Media.  People strapped the boards on their backs and walked through Midtown.  Then some of your gorge GFW 2013 Directors put them on, too!

It was amazing. Many of your GFW interns had no idea that this was going to happen, and when we first saw the boards marching down University Ave., there was a resounding, “Wait, are you serious?” Things had just gotten real.

FYI, promoting at Cantina using LCD boards was a huge deal: GFW was one of the organizations to use them for social marketing in Gainesville. It was a night to remember.

GFW in itself is something to remember. Come out and see us on Sunday at our Casting Call; you’ll be glad to say you were a part it.

See you then!

- Niko 

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

The Follow Up: GFW Loves Sharab!

As GFW interns, we have it pretty good. While it’s certainly not easy putting on such a large-scale event, we can’t help but enjoy every minute of it. On Saturday night, our job description included mingling, schmoozing and scoping out Gainesville’s most beautiful people as we took over Sharab Lounge. Looking sophisticatedly chic in all black – with the exception of standout accessories like Shelby’s scarlet pumps, Chin Chin’s goldenrod bag and my citrine beaded necklace – interns from each division of GFW came together to promote our model casting call on Feb. 3.

Downtown wasn't particularly buzzing with activity, but that didn't stop us from having a great time. While promoting Sharab’s GFW-inspired shots Hot Pants (a cinnamon concoction that’s fuchsia tint made it look as good as it tasted), we passed out Hot cards to perspective models like the slender 6-foot woman with razor-sharp cheekbones and the adorable Ashton Kutcher look-a-like behind the bar.

Think you’re what we’re looking for? If you want to learn more about the opportunity to model for GFW, we’ll be stationed in Turlington all week. You’ll also find us Downtown again at Simon's on Jan. 31 and in Midtown at Cantina on Feb. 1 promoting the big casting call.

Even if modeling isn’t for you, swing by and join the fun. Just look for the cohesively dressed cluster in black.

-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

Three Thirty Couture: Gainesville's newest walk-in closet

Butler Plaza is home to Gainesville’s newest boutique, Three Thirty Couture nestled between Campus Outfitters and Bonefish Grill.

Owner, Nicole Snodgrass has created what she calls a walk-in closet by using closet cabinets, a dark color scheme and footstools scattered throughout the store. The words posh, sleek and sexy-sophisticate flash from the window display.

Three Thirty Couture opened its doors on February 16, 2011. This store is Snodgrass’ first venture in selling her own line. After prior experience in retail, she negotiated with designers out of Los Angeles to create her own line.

Shoppers can expect a cross that boasts the quality of Bebe with prices closer to Forever 21. The most expensive item in the store is $70. The collection ranges from silk dresses to casual wear in vibrant colors. Shiny baubles of jewelry are scattered throughout the store. A line of lingerie is also offered.

Three Thirty has a lounge where customers, and the men that so eagerly accompany them, can enjoy alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. In the future, the boutique will host private shopping expos for groups and individuals. In Snodgrass’ opinion, these two aspects set apart her boutique from the rest.

Snodgrass chose the Gainesville market because there is a huge market of 30K plus girls in the area. They outnumber the shopping choices offered to them. She specifically chose Butler plaza on the basis of convenient parking and heavy foot traffic. With a greek shopping base in mind, she hopes to target customers of Campus Outfitters.

If you missed opening day, be sure to catch up with the boutique and us at the Three Thirty Couture Posh Grand Opening and GFW Model Meet & Greet on March 2 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Add them to your foursquare to-do list

Information on this event can be found here and general store information can be found on its Facebook page or official website.

Regular store hours are from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

GFW participates in ACEL Kickball Charity Tournament

It was so nice to spend a day in the outdoors with our team members and the community! This February the GFW team joined Alachua Country Emerging Leaders (ACEL) for their fifth annual charity kickball tournament.

Neutral 7 joined forces with GFW, young professionals and community leaders at Diamond Sports Park to watch 32 teams compete to win money toward a fantastic abundance of charities.

Of the 32 teams 16 won cash prizes toward the non-profit charity they supported such as The Gainesville Pet Rescue, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, The Arthirtis Foundation, The American Heart Association and March of Dimes just to name a few.

Some of our committee members enjoyed the day outdoors away from our busy office at the neutral7 studio.

GFW & Rocket in Our Town Magazine

Scanning the magazine racks at the grocery store yesterday I noticed something special in the local section.

Grab the Spring 2011 issue of Our Town magazine to see the article on Gainesville Fashion Week and their sub-organization Rocket for the Arts.

Click here to read the article or grab your copy on newsstands now!

This season GFW, LLC launches the non-profit that was created to foster youth art education and more quality art programs in Alachua County.

As I mentioned in the article, I remember that moment when I knew I wanted to make this "media thing" a career - but I'll take it a step further.

I went to school in the West Indies where I did it all: painting in watercolors and acrylics, graphic design with tracings from a light box and guache paints, sketches in charcoal, pastels and ink, ceramics, woodwork, sewing, and pottery. You name it, I was there!

But, there was a defining moment when I made the switch to digital...and ultimately broadcasting and that one teacher (who funny enough was my history teacher/drama teacher/local morning show radio personality) that really pushed my interest.

Here we are, a little more than a decade later. I don't use my hands as much as I'd like..but I still remember our conversations and the classes from my great line up of teachers.

I think an Art Education, in any form, is so important to developing your personality.

We hope that you feel as strongly and make plans to attend the Rocket for the Arts Black Tie Gala on Friday April 9th benefiting the organization with dinner, dancing, a silent auction and a night of great conversation.

~melanie.

Have you seen our new video?

Well here it is.

Behind the scenes footage from our 2011 Model Callbacks held last Wednesday at The Vault.

This Sunday, we hold our official 2011 GFW Model tPhoto Shoot, so you will soon see the new faces of GFW2011. We're so excited and impressed with the caliber of talent - it's going to be a great season.

CHECK IT OUT, NOW! and remember you can watch all the action at GFW-TV.

Calling all Models!

Inexperienced or experienced, short or tall, big or small. We want to see YOU!

Just a reminder about our casting call THIS Sunday January 23rd.

We will be waiting for you at neutral7 - 2444 NE 1st Blvd, Suite 700 - from 1 to 5p.m.

Side note, have you been to our GFW-TV page lately, you can see awesome videos - like this one - take a look, we'd love your feedback!

See you on Sunday!

HOT Cards - Who has 'em?

We hit the streets of Gainesville like maniacs this Saturday night with HOT cards, stickers and our hot new interns to tell people about the 2011 Casting Call.

We had so much fun scanning 101 Downtown, Sharab, Spannk, Status, SpeakEasy and Bank for fun faces - we just might do it again. Keep an eye out for the hot pink mark, you never know when we're gonna pop up.

Thanks everyone for being such good sports and a special hello to the policeman that we covered in stickers in front of Volta.

See the full album here and don't forget Model Casting January 23rd at neutral 7!

Calling All Hotties!

The Gainesville Fashion Week team is on the prowl for the next hottest thing.

Throughout the next two weeks, we will be scouring the city in search of those worthy of the GFW "Hot" Card- the exclusive hot-pink token signifying we think you have what it takes to be a model in this year’s runway shows. Whether it is at the local hot spots, out to dinner or on campus, we are always on the lookout. Once spotted, your picture will be taken with your Hot Card and uploaded into our Hot Card photo album on our Facebook page for all to envy.

Check our page frequently to see which of your friends have already received their Hot Card!

Are you hot enough for the paparazzi?

Visit gainesvillefashionweek.com for more information.

gfw! sponsors Project Hyphen: Asians in Fashion

Since our logo release in September, we have been working hard to get started on our marketing efforts for next year's fashion week. gfw! 20eleven is going to be all about glits and glam!  So it's only fitting that gfw! and the Retail Society are cosponsoring the UF Asian Kaleidoscope Month 2010: Project Hyphen: Asians in Fashion, a night in fashion at the Reitz Union Ballroom featuring Filipino designer Jay Nicolas Sario, www.jaynicolassario.com, from Bravo's Project Runway, fashion designer Kim Phan, www.yumikim.com, and Crystal Fong of the Fashion Institute of Technology New York on Monday, October 18 from 6:30pm - 9:00pm.

This glamorous event with be presenting clothing from a variety of prominent Asian American fashion designers as well as hold a questions and answers session from the designers themselves during the show.

gfw! was delighted to assist in promotions and providing makeup and model contacts for the event including Avant Garde Salon who did an amazing job on hair for last year's Gainesville Fashion Week.

Be sure to check out the UF Asian Kaleidoscope Month at www.ufakmonth.com and visit the facebook page for more information about the upcoming event!

And don't forget to keep checking http://gainesvillefashionweek.blogspot.com and the gfw! facebook page for more updates on gfw! 20eleven!