The Fun New Event of the Season is Here (Pretty Much)

The first seasonal Fashion Week Gala is coming together, and we have lots of exciting details to share! Soon some of our most amazing FWO VIP members and fashion industry veterans will come together to mix at mingle at the exclusive DV Club in Midtown Manhattan.

There will be jazz standards and fun surprises. And also, did we mention, people dressed up in their finest fashion duds?

people dressed up in their finest fashion duds

Read on to learn more about the many partners, artists, and brands that have gotten together to create this special, one-of-a-kind fashion months kickoff. Some of them will have refreshments; others will be in gift bags and giveaways.

To find out all the details, you’ll just have to come!

The Dress Code

You know that vintage Chanel suit your crazy family member left you? Those Courrèges sunglasses you can barely see through? That intensely fashionable outfit you don’t wear because it makes you feel overdressed whilst among “normal” people? This will be guests’ chance to rock it before the entire world.

But most importantly, we want people to come in a way that makes them feel happy, fun, and comfortable.

The DV Club

The brainchild of Italian Fashion House Domenico Vacca, DV Club is the first “civilized” members only private club where members are free from all the nonsense of the typical social and night club/lounge.

DV Club connects successful individuals in fashion, entertainment, finance, and arts.

DV Club connects successful individuals in fashion, entertainment, finance, and arts.

“I wanted a social club/lounge where the staff knows not only every member by name, but their choices in drinks, food and their social habits so they can anticipate their needs. I want the DV Club to be a place were members and their guests will feel like they are coming to visit me at my home, where my clients and friends can relax, network and meet other members and their guests, all selected for their achievements in life and business,” says Domenico Vacca.

On Instagram.

The Palm by Whispering Angel

From the makers of iconic Provence rosés Château d’Esclans, comes The Palm by Whispering Angel (@thewhisperingangel) (SRP $15) – an effortlessly chic and refreshingly approachable new wine for the rosé-lover looking to bring an extra splash of style to their summertime sipping.

Crafted with grapes from Provence, the world-renowned rosé-producing region in the South of France, The Palm has all the hallmarks of a quality Provençal rosé: dry, light and crisp with a signature ballet slipper-pink hue.

Enclosed with a fashion-meets-function screw-cap top to add a drop of convenience to your rosé lineup, The Palm’s colorful, palm tree-adorned, sun-scape label evokes leisurely getaways and warm nights spent on the beach with friends after hours.

“The Palm will continue to push the envelope of unparalleled quality and innovation, characteristic of the market-leading Château d’Esclans portfolio,” explains Paul Chevalier of Château d’Esclans. “As the brand who created the rosé renaissance in America, we see an opportunity to continue educating rosé lovers around the world with a more approachable Provençal rosé that’s fresh, fun, and undeniably affordable; yet guaranteeing authenticity in the ever growing and often confusing rosé offerings that we now see available to everyday wine consumers.”

The Palm will continue to push the envelope of unparalleled quality and innovation

The Palm will be stepping out in style for Summer 2018 with limited release – so keep an eye out as it pops up in your favorite hotspots. Follow @thepalmrose on Instagram for updates, and be among the first to discover your own rosésis!

Anuja Tolia Jewelry

Anuja Tolia of Anuja Tolia Jewelry @(anujatoliajewelry) says: “I’ve been passionate in all realms of fashion ever since I can remember. It is that passion that took me to The Parsons School of Design in New York City, where I graduated with a distinction in Fashion Design.

“After graduating and working for several major designers such as a Wifebeader and Liz Claiborne Inc., I was looking to take my creativity to the next level, so I enrolled in the Studio Art Center International in Florence, Italy. There, I studied and honed my skills in a variety of areas within fashion, but nothing excited me more than creating the perfect piece of jewelry to complete a look. After discovering that designing jewelry is what I was destined to do, I transformed my ideas into reality, and, thus, the Anuja Tolia Line was born!

“After returning to Manhattan from Italy, I got right to work putting the finishing touches on the first few collections and officially launched the Anuja Tolia Line in June 2010! The Line is composed of pieces created from exotic gems, edgy metals, and vibrantly colored semi-precious stones. The elegant earrings, rings, necklaces, bangles, and cuffs are processed globally. Each piece fuses my love of Indian artisanship with Western flare. I give every detail specific attention to ensure that each piece is flawless and makes you feel like a new woman the minute you put it on.”

If you’re looking for unique, handcrafted, fashion-forward, and trendsetting jewelry, this is the perfect line for you.

LIQS Cocktail Shots

Like most people who look back fondly on a great night out, the turning point of the evening, when all the fun truly began, was when someone had the brilliant idea to order a round of shots. Whether an ice breaker among new friends, a moment of celebration toasting old friends, or the fastest way to share a drink and jump back into the crowd — shots have always had the unique ability to not only take the night to the next level, but also to bring people together.

LIQS Cocktail Shots (@liqs), the world’s first premixed cocktail shot, are changing the game with their portable ready-made mixtures of premium spirits, real fruit juice and natural flavors. As leading innovators within the Ready-to-Drink category, it is no wonder that LIQS has become a celebrity, influencer and consumer favorite at top music festivals, major arenas and high profile events.

LIQS are sold in five flavors and available at liquor stores, bars, nightclubs, hotels, golf courses, music venues, festivals and many other venues across the country.

The Music

Linda Briceño / Singer & Trumpeter

Venezuelan performer Linda Briceño (@ellabricmusic) owns an impressive list of achievements: Songwriter, trumpeter and producer. In 2014, her first album, Tiempo, was nominated for two Latin Grammies, including Best New Artist and Best Pop Traditional Album.

Baden Goyo / Piano

Baden Goyo (@badengoyo) is a pianist, composer and arranger graduated from Lino Gallardo Music School and specialized in Jazz and Popular music with the Master Gerry Weil. He was the principal pianist of the Simon Bolívar Big Band Jazz, (one of the most prominent jazz Project in Venezuela in last decade) performing in several festivals and prestigious stages both nationally and internationally such as: Jazz al Parque (Colombia), Dizzy’s Club Jazz at Lincoln Center (New York) and New England Conservatory (Boston).

After putting together his own Jazz Trio, Baden performed in several national festivals and theaters as a band leader: Noches de Guataca, Festival de Jazz de Paraguaná, Festival de jazz de Barquisimeto, etc. By 2014 he was considered one of the most important pianists of his home country, which allowed him to play and collaborate with most of the relevant Venezuelan artists: Pablo Gil, Rafael “el pollo” Brito, Aquiles Baez, Eddy Marcano, C4 Trio, Kiara, Mirna Rios, Primate, etc.

His successful career both as a pianist and composer in Venezuela is reflected within the important Book of Banesco entitled “A New Musical Country” which includes him as one of the youngest and most promising figures in Venezuelan Jazz, dedicating an entire section to his career. Furthermore, his work as composer and arranger has been acclaimed both in the Venezuelan audiences and internationally as well, reaching the peak recently in 2017 when he was awarded with 2 Latin Grammy (Best Album of the Year & Best Album of Salsa) and 1 Grammy (Best Latin Tropical Album) through his collaboration (as composer) with Ruben Blades, who wrote lyrics for one his compositions (¿Adónde?) and include it in his latest album entitled “Salsa Big Band”

Conor Parks / Drums

Connor Parks (@connors.park) was born in Orlando, FL and began playing classical percussion at age 11. He began his undergraduate work at the University of Central Florida, studying with Marty Morell. While living in Orlando, Connor was mentored by local hero Benoit Glazer, and performed often in the Jazz and Improvised Music community.

He transferred to the New School for Jazz & Contemporary Music in New York City, receiving a BFA in Jazz Studies. While at the New School, he was taught by Jane Ira Bloom, Reggie Workman, and Dave Douglas, & privately studied with Matt Wilson, Aaron Parks, Matt Brewer, Harish Raghavan, Amir Ziv, Ben Street, Gilad Hekselman, Johnathan Blake, and Dayna Stephens.

Upon arriving in New York City, Connor has grown to be a highly in-demand artist playing with countless peers and has performed with Vic Juris, Dave Glasser, JD Allen, Bobby Selvaggio, Eddie Henderson and rapper Mcklopedia. Connor will be on tour with Blue Note artist Kandace Springs in 2018, appearing live and on TV in the United States and internationally.

Connor endorses Innovative Percussion sticks & mallets, Canopus Drums, and Paiste Cymbals.

Nick Dunston / Bass

Nick Dunston (@nick.funston) is a bassist, composer, scholar, and cross-disciplinary collaborator. His performances have spanned a variety of venues and festivals across countries in North America and Europe, including Switzerland, Sweden, Germany, Poland, Portugal, Austria, Denmark, The Czech Republic, Canada, and Italy.

He’s performed with artists such as Tyshawn Sorey, Matt Wilson, Jeff Lederer, Amirtha Kidambi, Vijay Iyer, Marc Ribot, Jeff “Tain” Watts, and more.

As a composer, he’s written for and collaborated for a wide range of artists, from solo instrumentalists to performance artists. As a writer, he’s contributed monthly to Hot House jazz magazine since 2016. Nick currently studies at The New School and is on track to graduate with a BA degree in Contemporary Music and a BFA degree in Jazz Performance.

YEROC by Corey Woods

YEROC (@itscoreywoods) lies in an illimitable belief of individualism. YEROC revolves around being just as you authentically are. If you exist as your natural self, then you become a greater self because you empower yourself from within. Hence my aphorism and that of YEROC: “Standing Out is a Natural Consequence of Being an Icon.”

Matilda Jane Clothing

Matilda Jane Clothing (@matildajaneclothing) was built on the free spirit, whimsical imagination, and the beautiful courage of girlhood. This company delights, charms, and inspires. Matilda Jane Clothing has one overriding goal – to bring happiness into the lives of our customers. Our girls, tween, and adult lines are designed to bring a smile to your face every time you look in your closet or step out your door. Matilda Jane Clothing’s whimsical approach to texture, pattern, and color results in designs that are youthful, playful, and expressive. Our clothes reflect our values; smile with pride, act with heart, and live with soul. This is the MJ way.

Livie and Luca Brand

Livie and Luca (@livieandluca) says their purpose “is to spread joy one little step at a time. We believe that shoes should support healthy foot development without sacrificing style. That’s why our shoes are designed for the comfort of your little one’s growing feet and feature brightly colored velvety leathers, padded heels and flexible soles (go ahead & bend them!). You’ll find a touch of whimsy and magic in every detail.”

Aunt Jackie’s

Aunt Jackie’s (@auntjackiescurlsandcoils) is dedicated to providing the best, high quality hair care solutions for all hair types, with special emphasis on wavy, coiled, kinky and mixed-textures. Our amazing natural hair therapies help you manage, maintain, and style with ease while keeping your hair healthy and beautiful!

Krisp Events

KrispEvents.com (@krisp_events) will be supplying delicious treats, including truffle risotto tot, crepe fraiche, parmesan Guillermo; seared beef tenderloin, chimmichurri, brioche crisp; seared sesame tuna, wasabi caviar, pickled ginger, gluten free sesame crisp.

Owls Brew

Beer and Tea? You can’t do that! Guess what? Owls Brew (@theowlsbrew) just did.

Owl’s Brew Radler is a mix of fresh-brewed organic tea and craft beer – a delicious and spritz-y beverage that’s made from whole, real ingredients.

Yolanda’s Sweets

Delicious treats from Yolanda’s Sweets @yolandassweets!

Columbia Midtown Florist

We invite you to our Columbia Midtown Florist (@columbiamidtownflorist) studio in the center of Manhattan, just off of Fifth Avenue and across the street from Rockefeller Plaza.

GoCase

Gocase® (@gocasebr) (@shopgocase) will be designing a special case especially for our wonderful attendees!

“GoCase is an innovative brand that develops style-driven products with the best quality. The brand is designed and conceived by young entrepreneurs tired of uncreative cases. With high quality, the cases of Gocase® ensure the protection of your device from impact, scratches and dirt in daily usage.

“Our focus is building quality products with refined design, so stay tuned we will always deliver new ideas!”

Carolyn Hakansson, Invitation Designer

The Fashion Week Gala invitation was designed by FWO Associate Editor Carolyn Hakansson.

Carolyn Hakansson is a graphic designer and freelance lifestyle writer. Her work focuses on the intersection of fashion, trends, and communication, largely informed by her experiences in the visual departments of new wave media (The New Potato), traditional publications (GQ), and local NY startups (W&P). She holds a BA in graphic design from The Fashion Institute of Technology.

Megan Averbuch, Fashion Stylist and Brand Consultant

Megan Averbuch (@bellesnrebelles) is a NYC-based Fashion Stylist. She allocates her time between styling at world renowned vintage boutique and showroom/archive, New York Vintage (www.newyorkvintage.com) and working as a freelance stylist.

With experience as a Women’s and Men’s stylist, she boasts a diverse clientele which includes NYC’s social sets, music/recording artists, actors/actresses/entertainment industry professionals as well as a plethora of professional athletes. Versatile and with a portfolio filled with editorial and editor experience from quite a few publications- including the international Magie Magazine (cover), FOTR, Heed Magazine (celebrity/cover), Resource Magazine (celebrity), Teen Vogue and the highly regarded art/fashion publication, Futureclaw Magazine.

Modeling, major event planning around the world from Art Basel to Super Bowl, the NFL Draft and NBA All Star Week (for clients such as Maxim, Playboy, The Rashad Jennings Foundation, The Karma Foundation, Schuyler 4 Showroom, Rolling Stone, d4sm, DEC Management, Jason of Beverly Hills, Artist Elmo Hood, Swizz Beats/No Commission, etc) itinerary planning and brand consulting can also be found on her extensive resume. Her personal site and blog is bellesandrebelles.blogspot.com.

INGJIN SAN – “The Fashion DJ”

Fashion designer INGJIN SAN (@IngjinSan) is one of the newest faces in fashion, creating and remixing fashion trends in her cutting-edge collections. The INGJIN SAN brand is cultivating a sophisticated luxury line of innovative, one-of-a-kind designs for the influential men & woman of today’s art and culture. Currently focusing on chic, ready-to-wear designs for women, INGJIN SAN plans to incorporate all genders and body types, and to expand couture into her line.

INGJIN SAN will be debuting at NYFW this Saturday night, presenting her Spring/Summer 2019 collection “The Concrete Jungle” with The Society Fashion Week. An elegant and classy, yet sexy and fierce, fashion-forward collection inspired by the illuminated window architecture of New York City … the city that never sleeps … “The Concrete Jungle”.

“You may not hear me speak loudly, but you will hear the ROAR of my designs.” – INGJIN SAN

Davroe

Davroe (@davroe) is an Australian-made, natural-based, cruelty-free and vegan-friendly range of salon professional hair care products. Davroe is manufactured in South Australia by our founding company, Dresslier, which is Australia’s oldest hair care manufacturer, Established in 1930.

Mary commenced working at Dresslier in 1984 as a receptionist, over the years she has progressed through the ranks and in 2008, became the Director and Co-owner with her husband, John.

Davroe is celebrating over 30 years of cutting edge hair care, and, as we are proud to say, have been the pioneers for many ‘firsts’ in Australian hair care along the way: First to be Sulphate free; first to be 100% Vegan; first to use native Australian extracts.

Davroe has become Australia’s fastest selling hair care range. We have a strong connection with the fashion industry, where we support a number of up and coming Australian designers. For 3 years running Davroe has been appointed the Official Hair Sponsor of Fashion Palette at New York Fashion Week and will be heading back to New York again in September, as well as the Official Hair Sponsor for Dan Liu’s NYFW show.

Davroe is available in the US, visit davroeus.com for more information.

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fashionweekgala.com

With love,

FWO

Be Part of the FWO Times Square Takeover!

Fashion Week Online is excited to bring you an amazing opportunity from our friends at Five Tier. Five Tier is offering FWO Members the opportunity to have their brand up in iconic Times Square billboards during New York Fashion Week, September 6th – 14th, 2018!

Packages will start as low as $300. It also includes video of your placement on the boards and possible inclusion in their international press release, sent out over all major wire services.

According to Five Tier: “They say a picture is worth a thousand words — and organizations that have taken advantage of it have seen a Social Media and PR spike of 500% or more almost every time.”

If you would like to learn more or book your spot now, just visit: fivetier.com/product/fwo-times-square-takeover.

One of Five Tier’s representatives will reach out to discuss the opportunity further.

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FWO Times Square Takeover

With love,

FWO

The Fashion Week Gala

Time is running out to buy tickets to the Fashion Week Gala, happening Friday night at the exclusive DV Club in Midtown Manhattan, right on 5th Avenue.

On the first Friday night of the fashion month calendar, we’re gathering together friends and VIPs — old and new — for an evening of fashionable dressing, food, drinks, giveaways, and other fun surprises.

Although the event will be invitation-only, select opportunities are still available for FWO VIP Members.

We hope to see you there!

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fashionweekgala.com

Love always,

FWO

New Show Launches on Amazon Prime via FNL Network

In an effort to deliver internationally-minded and socially conscious content to its global viewership, FNL Network is excited to announce that “The Wishwall” has joined its tapestry of incisive and meaningful lifestyle programming.

Born from the creative mind of Simonetta Lein, “The Wishwall” follows the viral extension of the work of The Wishwall Foundation, an international non-profit dedicated to making wishes come true. Both in online as well as physical forms, the Wishwall serves as a forum for individuals from all different backgrounds and experiences to voice their wishes, both big and small. Simonetta Lein, known as “The Wishmaker,” utilizes her vast network and persistent optimism to manifest these seemingly impossible dreams, whether it be sitting at the front row of New York Fashion Week or having a street named in memoriam for a lost sister.

The result of this work gets The Wishwall TV Show picked up by FNL Network and distributed on Amazon Prime.

The Wishwall is proudly shot and produced entirely in the city of brotherly love, Philadelphia.

“We’re thrilled to be working with Simonetta and her team from The Wishwall Foundation, and are excited for our viewers to see this new show, which is bound to make everyone smile,” says CEO and President of FNL Network Rocco Leo Gaglioti.

“Connecting with FNL Network is so exciting, as it gives The Wishwall Foundation yet another opportunity to inspire the world and show how we can use all the energy from the fashion and the entertainment industries to pay it forward,” says Simonetta Lein, influencer and public figure.

Via exclusive distribution on Amazon Prime by FNL Network, “The Wishwall” chronicles this selfless work, as well as the heart-warming consequences.

For more information on The Wishwall Foundation and its portfolio of projects, visit www.TheWishwall.org.

Picture Credits for Simonetta Lein: Photographer Byron Purnell lll, Makeup Artist Yulia Alyusheva, Hair Stylist Nonna Cesareponti via Ressam House of Beauty, Outfits provided by Flying Solo NYC.

TV Show: Director Jonah Stern, Original music by Gooch & the Motion, Executive Producer Raphael Anthony Amabile.

Special thanks to Dr. Franco Lenna MD.

About the Wishwall Foundation

The Wishwall Foundation serves as a space for people from across the world to share their deepest wishes and desires on the website’s “The Wishwall.” Simonetta Lein, “The Wishmaker,” along with her global network, take those wishes and helps meaningful and impactful wishes come true. See more at http://www.thewishwall.org.

About Simonetta Lein

Simonetta Lein is The Celebrity Wishmaker, social media entrepreneur, named 100 world TOP fashion influencer & icon. Lein is a published author, International brand ambassador and a millennial activist, founder of The Wishwall Foundation 501(c)(3) based in Philadelphia USA. See more at simonettalein.com, @Simonettalein.

About FNL Network

Based in the beating heart of Los Angeles, California, the Fashion News Lifestyle Network is proud to broadcast the exciting worlds of fashion, travel, beauty, health, and reality TV. True stories, spotlights on dynamic industry professionals, and original series made exclusively for the FNL Network transport the viewer’s couch straight to the catwalk. Insightful and incisive, the network’s programming remains on the cutting edge of trends and glamour, as its award-winning films, documentaries, and original titles reach all four corners of the globe on Amazon Prime. www.FNLNetwork.com

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More info.

Watch it here.

With love,

FWO

When Actions Speak Louder Than Words

The beauties and brains behind the Humans of Fashion Foundation, Antoniette Costa and Kristina Romanova, are making moves post-#MeToo movement.

Antoniette, a lawyer and Kristina, a model, have teamed up to create an app that will help individuals who so desperately need it. The Foundation understands that not just models, but stylists, photographers, interns, editors, and even executives, face discrimination, harassment, and assault everyday in the fashion and beauty industry.

Due to certain stigmas associated with speaking up, certain laws (that are slowly being overturned), and downright fear of being blackmailed in a professional capacity, many of these individuals feel they have no recourse when troubling situations arise during work.

Moreover, there are individuals who are unaware of just what constitutes illegal or unacceptable behavior at work, and have no unbiased third-party to turn to for clarification or advice.

A void that the entire world has shed light on in the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, these women developed an app that seeks to address and remedy these problems. The app works like this: an individual who wishes to speak to someone regarding harassment or other issues can enter an alias name as well as whether they are seeking a therapist, a lawyer, or other professional.

the app seeks to address and remedy these problems

The individual will have to answer certain questions on the app related to their specific situation(s), including date of incident, a description of the event, and other confidential information. As such, the app will be subject to, and will follow, all current data privacy rules and regulations. With this information, the app should be able to vet an individual’s request and pair them with a professional apt to help them. Once that pairing occurs, however, the relationship remains off the app.

The app is a step toward making actual change in a whirlwind of talks to make change. Hopefully, once launched, the app will provide the source of help that many individuals in this industry need and have been asking for.

If interested in volunteering or helping out in any way, contact the Foundation at humans@humansoffashion.org.

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Humans of Fashion Foundation

With love,

FWO

“No Dark Skin”

Earlier this week, we reported on the incident at the KYA Swim casting during Miami Swim Week, where models were allegedly victims of racial discrimination. Today, Cosmopolitan has expanded on the coverage, reporting that, according to Joia Talbott, it was the KYA casting director who told all the models in line, “No dark skin.”

According to Cosmo:

“That is what came out of her mouth. Quote for quote,” Talbott says. Talbott says the woman said the casting was closed, even though a line of mostly white models was still waiting downstairs, waiting to be called up.

“We get chosen over every day, that just comes with the territory—either they like you or they don’t. That’s not what it is. I have very thick skin,” she says, adding that her issue is more about the way in which the casting practices “went above and beyond to be disrespectful and degrading towards women of color.”

the casting went above and beyond to be disrespectful and degrading towards women of color

Pictures of the KYA show can be seen here.

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With love,

FWO

Three Models at Casting Clarify Miami Swim Week Experience

N ot everyone felt that Miami Swim Week was discriminatory — although they did have a lot to say about a certain casting — as three models who appeared in the now-viral “melanin appreciation photo” posted by Joia Talbott have contacted FWO to clarify their experience.

Kate Citrone

This has been one of the greatest show experiences I’ve had thus far! Once again THANK YOU so much Tammy Rivera @charliesangelll for having me walk for you and close your segment! Thank you @jvded for taking the time to see me even after every spot in the lineup was filled! I am a fan of this swim line and I’m grateful for this opportunity ??? Love you guys! Suit available at T-Rivera.com @artheartsfashion @charliesangelll @styletherunway @fashionweekonline @frontmanagement #miamiswimweek #miamiswimweek2018 #swimweekmiami #blackisbeautiful #miami #tammyrivera #lnhhatl #melaninpoppin #melanin #model #modeling #arthearts #blessed #grateful

A post shared by Kate Citrone (@kate_citrone) on Jul 14, 2018 at 9:48am PDT

“My name is Kate Citrone, @Kate_Citrone and I am a runway fashion model currently based in Miami, signed to FRONT Model Management.

“I’d like to apologize for myself and a handful of the other models featured in that now-infamous photograph of melanin models for any inconvenience involved in this Swim Week scandal.

“The overall truth to this story is that we were all turned away from this casting. Whether it was for our skin tone or because we genuinely “didn’t fit the look” the designer was looking, for remains a mystery.

“It was evident in the end that this particular designer did not include a single Afro-American, African American model in her lineup this year or in the previous years. Yes, we all attended this casting, and yes we were all turned away, but this photo was not taken to bash KYA Swim or the entity of Miami Swim Week.

this photo was not taken to bash KYA Swim or the entity of Miami Swim Week

“My overall experience with Swim Week and designers in general worldwide has been very positive. I have been blessed to work with a very diverse group of designers and have had rewarding experiences. I’d be lying if I said I never encountered an ignorant comment of situation based upon skin color or ethnic origin, yet I believe to rise above said comments and focus on my overall image and brand.

“First and foremost, all of these women included in the photograph are beautiful!

“Regardless of their hair texture, their measurements, their height, or their skin tone, each of the models in this photograph is different and each deserves the same opportunity as the next. It is unfortunate that this industry favors one skin tone more than the other recommended company. I truly believe that the system is revolutionizing and African American models and “dark skin models” are given more opportunities than before in the fashion world, and I’d like to see it continue.

I truly believe that the system is revolutionizing, and I’d like to see it continue

“However, there are designers who are still stuck in the past and refuse to move with the times. KYA Swim, the designer in question, accused of turning away dark skin models, including myself, and models with Afro hair during Swim Week, is guilty of doing the same.

“After hours of waiting at the base of the stairwell, wondering if I should leave or stay, pursue another casting, check that my car had not been towed, or go grab a bite to eat, a group of AA models descended the stairwell and announced “don’t bother going up, they said they aren’t choosing any dark skin models or girls with afros.”

“Soon after, a casting agent announced that the casting was finished and we were all dismissed. Not only was the casting cut short upon the dismissal of dark skin models, but upon leaving, I noticed the designer still accepting models of a fairer skin type at the door, bringing them upstairs, comp cards in hand.

we were all dismissed, but I noticed the designer still accepting models of a fairer skin type

“Instead of getting down about it, myself and the other band of dark skin models retreated to the pool to enjoy ourselves. We started taking photos to show we are still strong, we are still powerful, though the system is against us, we are still here. The photos were originally taken to uplift each other and show appreciation to the girls who look like us. We are models, we rarely see one another. At that moment in time, taking a group photo to remember the day seemed innocent. It never crossed my mind what would become of the photos once air-dropped to each of our devices. Clearly, someone had other intentions.

It never crossed my mind what would become of the photos

“The very next morning, I woke up to the buzzing and chiming of my phone, notification after notification, all captioning the photo that was taken the day before. Suddenly, the story is “rumor has it, group of dark skin models turned away at Swim Week for their skin color.” And “black Models not booking swim week,” etc. I read on.

“Thousands of comments, retweets on Twitter, shares on Facebook, and repost upon repost on Instagram. My IG account blew up because of it. From the outside looking in, this was now focused on Swim Week as a whole, rather than the views of ONE designer.

this was now focused on Swim Week as a whole, rather than the views of ONE designer

“I thought nothing of it, until I began receiving messages, comments and calls all asking how I was being treated by Swim Week, and are the stories true. It got out of hand once other models I never met or encountered found their way to me and wanted to know is there hope for them in this industry.

“I immediately wanted to share, in the hopes that it inspires someone to continue on their path toward their dreams. For the record, several of us, myself included, booked multiple shows during Swim Week and we enjoyed the experience.

several of us, myself included, booked multiple shows during Swim Week

“Swim Week in itself is incredibly diverse, and we love working the runways for them each year. Going forward, we can only hope this doesn’t happen again with other Afro/African American models. No one deserves to feel like less of who they are.

No one deserves to feel like less of who they are

“It is very understandable when a designer doesn’t pick you. it is very rare you will walk for EVERY designer and EVERY show, especially when there are 100 shows going on. This industry requires a model to have thick skin. Not every casting director will book you. You might book one season and not make the cut for next season. You might walk in the room with 10 other girls and be let go because you are an inch taller. In most circumstances, you will be let go if your brand is not compatible with the brand you are hoping to represent. In my own experience, I have encountered statements such as “Where is our Black Lives Matter model?” “We need pepper in this salt.” And backstage I have been purposefully placed in photos being called a “token.”

backstage I have been called a “token”

“This year, I traveled around castings with my two good friends, Claire @nefertari_iv and Quiyona @q_salmon both included in this photo. In fact, we are some of the darker models included, and each of us booked different shows for different reasons.

“We are highly appreciative of designers such as Tammy Rivera, Gigi C Bikinis, Pikai, Black Tape Project, Acacia, Wilfredo Gerardo, Luxe Isle, Nash Beach, Poema Swim and all of the other designers we each were able to walk for this season.

“We each uplift one another and keep going. There are a handful of designers I would have loved to walk for this season and didn’t make the lineup, but I am grateful for the designers who decided within moments of meeting me that they wanted to instantly book me to represent their line on the runway. I am grateful for the teams I get to work beside during Swim Week. They look out for me and my brand and appreciate the time and efforts I make as a model.

“However, designers who have no intention of opening their line to women of color should have no place in the lineup of diverse shows. Discrimination is never ok and should not be justified.

designers who have no intention of opening their line to women of color should have no place in the lineup

“Let’s keep opening doors and creating opportunities for models like myself in similar situations. There is so much talent being overlooked that needs to be seen. Thank you to Miami Swim Week, Art Hearts Fashion, Planet Fashion, and Paraiso!”

Claire B

@mikoh @mikohswimwear @paraisofashionfair

A post shared by Nefertari?? (@nefertari_iv) on Jul 14, 2018 at 2:54pm PDT

“Hello, my name is Claire B, I am writing this statement in regard to the “melanin appreciation” picture that I am a part of that has since became viral and associated with “racism” of Swim Week!

“I would like to start by saying that Swim Week is made of hundreds of shows, some of which I was booked for, so no, I don’t believe that Swim Week was or is discriminatory in general!

Swim Week is made of hundreds of shows, some of which I was booked for

“I am the blackest in this picture, and I never felt any kind of discomfort around anyone during the castings or shows!

“The designer where the incident took place was KYA Swim. (Last year they had a show as KOA Swim.) Even though I wasn’t directly told by this designer that they weren’t seeing black girls anymore, I was told that at the moment the where looking for “shorter, white blondes.” I wasn’t offended by this at all, because it’s okay not to fit the criteria wanted by the client (in this case KYA Swim).

it’s okay not to fit the criteria wanted by the client

“But then I went back and looked at their show from last year. To my astonishment, they didn’t have any dark skin models at their show then! So I went further and watched their show this year again. They also didn’t have any dark or brown skin models at their show.

they didn’t have any dark skin models at their show last year, either

“So no, I don’t think Swim Week is discriminating anyone, but I do think KYA Swim is.”

Quiyona Salmon

Thank you so much @gigicbikinis for everything. It was so fun walking for you!! ❤️❤️ @miamiswimweekend @paraisofashionfair Brand: @gigicbikinis Designer: @gigi.caruso Hair// @love_kevin_murphy MUA// @marcelapereda #miamiswimweek #miamiswimweek2018 #runway

A post shared by Qui’yona Salmon (@q_salmon) on Jul 17, 2018 at 8:51am PDT

“Hello my name is Quiyona Salmon (@Q_salmon) and I am one of the models pictured in the photo.

“On July 12, two models and myself showed up at the Plymouth for a couple of castings, and one of the castings was for KYA Swim.

“We patiently waited downstairs while signing in, and Kate Citrone and I saw a group of maybe 5-6 girls go upstairs while Claire finished signing in, so in our head we were excited because the line started moving.

“A couple of minutes later they stormed downstairs upset, and we asked what happened. They immediately started saying “KYA isn’t looking for any more dark models,” so we were all shocked.

“Joia proceeds to mention the issue with the Afro, because I have a natural ‘fro as well. She said the casting team told her they weren’t looking for anyone with ‘fros. She also said that they pointed at her hair and shook their finger.

“We did not bother to go upstairs because of what they said.

“That’s when they all wanted to take a picture, and we agreed, because who wouldn’t want to take pictures?

“The photo was supposed to be used in a positive way, not negative. KYA didn’t book any black models, and we waited. But KYA not casting black models for two years straight isn’t right. We all are different.

The photo was supposed to be used in a positive way, not negative

“KYA is to blame, not Swim Week. Besides all of that, my experience was amazing during Swim Week.

“The designers and other directors were amazing.”

KYA Responds to Claims

KYA told the New York Post: “Everyone at KYA Swim is deeply disturbed by the allegations brought by Joia Talbott and other models about the casting event at Miami Swim Week. KYA Swim is proud of its record of diversity and we are in the midst of looking into the events of last Thursday to review the actions of the production company in charge of the casting call.”

[Editor’s Note: Pictures of the KYA show can be seen here.]

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Learn More

Miami Swim Week Schedule

With love,

FWO

Viral Video Claims Discrimination

Model Joia Talbott believes race was the reason she and other black models were dismissed from a casting call during July’s Miami Swim Week, reports Racked.com today.

You can see the title image of these ladies @joiajohn.

Fashion Week Online, which runs MiamiSwimWeek.net (currently a portal leading to our Miami Swim Week information pages), the Instagram @miamiswimweekend, and which hosts a free Miami Swim Week schedule, is working with other press outlets to determine where exactly the event in question took place.

Fashion Week Online‘s publisher Pablo Starr (@Pablo.Starr) released this statement today:

“Underrepresentation or misrepresentation of various ethnic groups is a serious issue, both in fashion and in our society at large. (I myself cringe at how many movies or TV series still only feature people with Hispanic names as maids, gang members, or day laborers. My father is a professor of economics, but I rarely see an Hispanic typecast as a nerdy professor, haha.)

“Miami Swim Week encompasses around 100 shows, created by roughly seven production companies, most of them great people. So whoever acted in this way will be found. Unfortunately, it won’t solve the larger problem of the marginalization of ethic groups in our society in general, which I know firsthand is a painful experience.

“Fashion Week Online, as a news portal dedicated to helping inform and help the Miami Swim Week market with news coverage (just as we do the other fashion hubs) will continue to report on this as we find out more.”

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With love,

FWO

DZHUS FW18

DZHUS’ Spring/Summer 2018 line unveils the designer’s secret passion: palaeontology.

Having explored the phenomenon of generation and development of life on Earth for years, simultaneously with her patternmaking experiments, Irina Dzhus has eventually come up with unique zoomorphic silhouettes and geologic textures of the “Archaea” collection.

 
DZHUS FW18

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The conceptual cut of the multifunctional transformer garments pays honour to fossils of ammonites and trilobites, evolution of charnia and arthropleura, long-gone Carbon and Ordovician.

Along with the biological leitmotif, the collection carries an association with the scientific avant-garde of late 19th – early 20th centuries, appealing to the Victorian aesthetics as well as laboratory uniforms.

DZHUS’ Spring/Summer line features a vast variety of edgy yet exquisite textiles: crushed silk, mélange linen, sheer crepe, finest woollen gauze, cotton with a distressed effect. Traditionally, DZHUS have used alternative fabric finishes, accentuating the technological background of their design.

ABOUT DZHUS

DZHUS is a conceptual womenswear brand launched in 2010 by Ukrainian designer and stylist Irina Dzhus.Avant-garde yet utilitarian, DZHUS is known for innovative cut, multifunctional transformer garments and austere industrial aesthetics. Inspired by the complex structure of the ambient, Irina Dzhus generates unique experimental constructions.

Short-listed for the International Woolmark Prize in 2015, DZHUS present their collections during Ukrainian Fashion Week, Paris Fashion Week and International Fashion Showcase in London.

DZHUS vegetarian-friendly clothing is stocked at concept stores in the USA, Austria, Japan, China, Australia, UAE, Saudi Arabia and Ukraine and sold online worldwide. DZHUS’ customer is a nonconformist intellectual in search of the perfect shell for her unique inner world.

The brand has been featured in the top international media: Vogue, Dazed&Confused, Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire, Elle, Elle Decoration, Cosmopolitan, L’Officiel, Noi.Se, Dash, Remark, Status, Jute, Giuseppina, Lucy’s, Dezeen.com and many more.

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Learn More

irinadzhus.com

With love,

FWO

ThreeASFOUR’s cymaSCOPE

Represented by Showroom Seven.

When sound is tuned to certain harmonic frequencies standing waves are created on the surface of water.

For Pre-Fall 2018 threeASFOUR presents cymaSCOPE, a capsule collection using Epson’s newest digital printing technology to produce an array of prints in a variety of threeASFOUR classics.

 
ThreeASFOUR’s cymaSCOPE

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Furthering their exploration of sound and geometry, threeASFOUR collaborated with photographer Linden Gledhill, who recorded the sacred beauty of sound using his unique process.

The images were shot through a macro lens that captured the stunning cymatic patterns by focusing on the center of a very shallow one-inch wide reservoir of water attached to a speaker known as a cymascope, and illuminated by lights, creating these vibrant prints.

 
Credits

threeASFOUR in collaboration with Epson
Model: Heather Goldin
Photographer: Elisabet Davids
Cymatics Photographer: Linden Gledhill

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With love,

FWO