DCFW Helps DMV Shed Frumpiness Label
D.C. Fashion Week took place from Sept. 23-27, during which designers from around the world showcased their latest creations in the DMV. Events included the opening night on the Capitol River Front, the highly anticipated emerging designers show and the fashion industry networking party. The grand finale, the international couture collections show, was held at the Carnegie Library and presented elegant fashions by an international roster of fashion designers before a chic crowd of spectators.
Stunning origami-influenced gown by Firefly Africa-Asia.
(Photo: Phelan Marc/DC Fashion Week)
While Washington’s role as a political capital is beyond dispute, it has yet to acquire the status of fashion capital. However, D.C. Fashion Week’s indefatigable founder and organizer, Ean Williams, has been working tirelessly to establish D.C. as a major center of fashion. Created as a partnership of designers, producers and models to promote the area’s economic development of fashion design, clothing merchandising and modeling, DCFW has greatly enhanced the image of the nation’s capital as an international center of fashion.
The designers featured in the international couture show included: Anca Design, Behar & Reza, Chalina Couture, Corjor International, Demure 31, Firefly Designs Africa-Asia, Lady Penh, Leighel Desiree, Nooree Collection, Sera Vero Nik and Styles by Hakeemah.
Ruffles are on-trend for Spring 2016, as shown by Lady Penh.
(Photo: Phelan Marc/DC Fashion Week)
Each designer displayed a unique vision and the show provided a range of looks and aesthetics. I personally admired the retro glam of Demure 31; the artful, origami pleats of Firefly Designs Asia-Africa; and the elegant, flowing silk dresses by Cambodian-born designer Lady Penh. I could easily see myself wearing these clothes. Corjor International, Williams’ own line of stunning eveningwear, elevated the chic factor to the next level. On display were some of the top trends for Spring 2016: ruffles, lace, mixed materials and appliques, pleats and bare shoulders accentuated with cut-outs.
This lovely ensemble by Demure 31shows the importance of pleats for Spring 2016
(Photo: Phelan Marc/DC Fashion Week)
The audience, which included officials from the embassies of Nepal and Thailand, was visibly impressed by the grand finale. I daresay Washington, D.C. is finally shedding its image as a city of frumpy policy wonks. I can’t wait to see what the talented Williams has in store for us next, but we have to wait for February for the next DCFW.
