As the city lights twinkled below us, we were on top of the world for RVA Fashion Week. City Hall’s Observation Deck was packed with Richmond’s fashion luminaries, models and chic vendors. Before the show we sipped Belle Isle Moonshine cocktails and perused the tables, laden with handmade jewelry, men’s ties repurposed from vintage clothing and more.
The show itself was modern, with street style and high-end sportswear (which people have dubbed the “new street style”). It was also modern in its diversity, with models of all shapes, sizes and color, taking style from the esoteric to the accessible. India Laposh was a standout, as was Destiny Howard.
RVA Fashion Week joined forces with Neighborhood Housing Services of Richmond, Inc., whom have launched the initiative “Create a Home for Our Heroes.” This initiative provides temporary housing for homeless and disabled veterans as they transition back to civilian life. NSHR also rehabilitates blighted buildings for veterans, which beautifies the city and improves neighborhoods, doubling down on the positive effects.
Liberatus Jewelry (pictured above) features versatile, one-of-a-kind pieces by Ginny Crane. John Crutchfield, the psychedelic rockabilly artist was holding court with his brass and fiberglass pieces, inspired by pop culture and art deco. His creations can be found at Artemis Gallery. Marla Rene was on site, allowing guests to sample her luxurious skin care line.
Happy Haven provided gorgeous hand-beaded pieces, leather cuffs and statement accessories. Miranda Classic Ties brought preppy chic to the event, with ties and accessories meant for the modern Southern gentleman, and accessories for the ladies too. Always ahead of the curve, they repurposed vintage textiles and clothes for these stand-out pieces. Nina Zabal (pictured below) featured avant garde geometric pieces reminiscent of Catherine O’Hara in Beetlejuice.
In all, it was a night that inspired. I was inspired to take fashion risks, dig deeper into some of the arts and culture I was exposed to, and it inspired me to give back to this wonderful city, just like RVA Fashion Week did.
Fayeruz Regan 