Cincinnati Fashion Week, a celebration of all things couture in the Queen City, is finally upon us. The event launched for the first time in 2010, and was a uniquely grass-roots movement. Over 200 people came together – volunteers, retailers, media, sponsors and partners – to produce a series of events that drew over 2,000 participants from all over the region.
The five-day fashion marathon included unique retail experiences at seven high-end boutiques, VIP Parties, a Tribute event with Landor Associates, a merchant fair with Future Blooms and Keep Cincinnati Beautiful, and two full-length runway productions. The collaboration for the event experience was born as an opportunity to celebrate and showcase the wealth of young and professional design talent in the area, highlight local non-profits, and increase local revenue.
This year the producers aim the bar higher, with one event each night of the week aiming to please fashionistas all over. The week sees male-oriented fashion on Tuesday, Japanese-inspired couture from an expert at the Art Museum on Wednesday, Graphic design inspired windows at the Shillito lofts on Thursday, a fund-raising dinner on Friday, and a fashion show finale Saturday night. Phew!
Ten designers, including local favorites Amy Kirchen, Laura Dawson, and Lindsey Lusignolo, are displaying their creations during the week. The styles range from women’s ready-to-wear to socially conscious fabrics, and everything in between.
The next wave of design talent is alive and well in Cincinnati, and Fashion Week helps bring the creativity front and center. Be sure to check out one or all of the events to get a taste of global design in the heart of the Queen City. For more information on designers and events, head over to the Fashion Week website.
Cincinnati Fashion Week 2010 photo for UrbanCincy by Thadd Fiala.