Friday, September 24, 2010

Charlotte NC Fashion Week Underway

Posted by Jarvis Holliday On 9/24/2010 No comments
The third annual Charlotte NC Fashion Week (CNCFW) kicked off yesterday with workshops in the afternoon, a reception in the evening, and a fashion show at night. The all-day schedule continues today and tomorrow at Bank of America's Founders Hall and Urban Garden.

I attended Thursday's reception and fashion show, and my first impression was a good one as I stepped inside the Urban Garden for the first time. I had read about the building's construction and had passed it several times since it opened a few months ago, but this was my first time inside. It's a beautiful space and great venue for the fashion show and just about any other special event.

The crowd last night was a little light, I'm guessing about 150 people, but that's not surprising for a Thursday. I'm sure Friday and Saturday's crowds will be much larger. Even still, the fashion show last night was enjoyable. The DJ (and servers carrying drinks) kept us entertained until the fashion show began about 8:30 p.m. CNCFW Director Anthony Simons greeted the audience and shared his vision for the event. He then introduced host Debra Kennedy, who did a great job hosting the show--she's very charming and witty.

Since last night was Boutique Night, the models wore designs sold at several local boutiques, including: O1NE Boutique, Moonkee’s, Fresh Boutique, Ivey & Leo, L.A. East, Reign Fine Apparel, Banana Republic, and Scarlett Plus Boutique.

Courtnee Mason was among the models at last night's CNCFW event. Photo courtesy of QcityMetro.com.

O1NE, whose apparel was very urban/street/skateboarder-like, was my favorite. They featured the most male models of the night, and the dudes wore items that I would actually wear (that doesn't happen much for me at fashion shows). O1NE's female models wore sporty dresses and jeans that I wouldn't mind seeing my chick wearing. L.A. East had by far the most models in the show, and their presentation was very Hollywood chic, like you would see worn on The Hills. Scarlett Plus got the most applause of the night as patrons cheered every time one of their plus-size models proudly strutted down the catwalk.


After a brief intermission, Charlotte R&B singer Amanda Pollard and her sexy backup dancers entertained us with a few songs. Then the show resumed with the last three boutiques presenting for the night.

You'll want to check out Charlotte North Carolina Fashion Week today and tomorrow. Aspiring models, designers, and stylists should attend the afternoon workshops. And Saturday night's fashion show has been getting a lot of buzz because Lil Kim will be appearing. The Grammy-Award winning artist and hip-hop icon is in Charlotte all weekend for the grand opening of her new hair salon, Salon Se Swa, which she has partnered with her cousin, Katrise Jones.

Photo courtesy of QcityMetro.com.

Below is the schedule for the remaining CNCFW events.

Friday, September 24

Industry Workshops and Vendor Fair
Location: Bank of America Founders Hall, 100 N. Tryon St.
12-1:30 p.m.: “Putting Your Best Look Forward” Style and Makeover Workshop.
12-3 p.m.: Bare Escentuals "Quickie Makeover Van".
12-4 p.m.: “In-Focus” Model and Photo Shoot Contest.

Main Event
Location: Bank of America Urban Garden, 150 N. College St.
6:30-7:30 p.m: VIP and Press Red Carpet Reception.
8-10 p.m.: Emerging Designer Showcase hosted by Fox News Rising co-host Anna Kooiman, and live entertainment.
Featured designers: Sacchi Designs, Adero by Adrina, Republique Rogue by Kristi Stewart, Odelia Studio House of Style, Katoni Rae, and Sam Randolph Designs.
After-party immediately following in the Bank of America Urban Garden.

Saturday, September 25

Industry Workshops and Vendor Fair
Location: Bank of America Founders Hall, 100 N. Tryon St.
12-1:30 p.m.: “Modeling for the Next Generation” Workshop and vendor display.
12-4 p.m.: “In-Focus” Model and Photo Shoot Contest.

Main Event
Location: Bank of America Urban Garden, 150 N. College St.
6:30-7:30 p.m: VIP and Press Red Carpet Reception (Founders Hall).
8-10 p.m.: Emerging Designer Showcase hosted by WSOC-TV news anchor Erica Bryant, and live entertainment by recording artist Jana Mashonee. Special appearance by Lil Kim.
Featured designers: Foxx Skynz by Design, Jen Jessica S. Designs, Green Label Designs, Huckle and Gatsby, MEI Designs, Gini by Elizabeth, Bill Evans, and Alana B. Couture.
After-party immediately following at 5th Element Night Club, 500 W. Trade St.

For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.charlottencfashionweek.com.

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