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

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

TALENT UPDATE: Klarc Shepard

We wanted to introduce you to another key member of this year's team - DJ Klarc Shepard. *Applause and cheering ensues* but wait...not so fast, you've heard him at our events before.

Klarc has lent a huge hand by spinning at our Annual Model Callbacks for the last two years and keeping the lady models on their toes. What can we say? He's suave.

But he's also pretty legit. Klarc has worked in: Florida, Atlanta, New York and the tri-state area as well as the West Indies as a DJ, producer and talent manager.

He joins us in 2011 as GFW Music Coordinator. Come check him out at our events - this guy knows how to pump up a crowd. Don't believe us? Head to 101 Downtown on a Saturday night to see and hear the proof.

Learn more about Klarc here.

Have a song request? Post it on his Facebook Fan Page.

SPONSOR UPDATE: 106.9 KZY

Gainesville Fashion Week welcomes another radio sponsor to this season's line up.

106.9 KZY is the radio station custom made for North Central Florida.

106.9 KZY gives away thousands of dollars worth of cash and trips every year with Kidd Kraddick in the Morning, plus 106.9 KZY keeps you company all day while you work and all weekend long with 52 minute music hours.

106.9 KZY is on demand at www.1069kzy.com or like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @1069KZYFM

Need Media Creds? Click here

Are you a working member of the media interested in covering our event?

Super! (and welcome)

Please complete this form - the deadline for submission is March 19th 2011

Do you write, blog, vlog, film, edit, photograph, produce?

We encourage all types of media to apply.

Pop Glow to perform at GFW

The GFW team is so excited to announce our first musical act of the season - Pop Glow.

We were introduced to the group in 2010 while they were on a Florida leg tour with Black Kids. Earlier in the year I saw them play The Vagabond in Miami; trust me when I say, these guys (and their fans) know how to have a GREAT time.

If you've ever been to a Pop Glow show you know you're in for dancing, tons of neon, and crazy, motor-mixed cover songs (on top of their original tracks) including Michael Jackson's "Rock with You" and Phoenix's "Listomania".

Here's one of my favorite Pop Glow songs called "Dreams Come True". Don't let the title fool you, there are no Disney-esque lyrics here.

You can catch Pop Glow LIVE at Villa East - 301 North Main Street - during Gainesville Fashion Week's Thursday lineup - buy tickets here.

Remember, pre-sale tickets end on March 31st - so you better hurry. Between this fun band and our incredible line-up of designers, boutiques and the Emerging Designers Showcase; word to the wise - just get those tickets quickly!

Like Pop Glow on Facebook or listen to more of the tracks on Soundcloud.

Dreams Come True by Pop Glow

SPONSOR UPDATE: Magic101.3FM

Gainesville Fashion Week is thrilled to announce we have a radio sponosor! Woo hoo!

Magic 101.3 is Gainesville/Ocala's home for blazin’ hip-hop and R&B.

Check them out during your work week or listen live from their website!

The Weekday Lineup

6am-10am: The Rickey Smiley Morning Show

10am-3pm: Lady Reign

3pm-7pm: Ya Boy Russ

7pm-12am: DJ Terrah

Connect with them on Facebook or follow Magic 101.3 on Twitter @Magic1013FM