Richmond is full of supremely talented folks. I know— stop the presses, right? But really! Last week was the 8th Annual RVA Fashion Week and it was jam-packed with events featuring a whole host of bright, driven and creative Richmonders all looking to put their sartorial stamp on our city (and beyond!). It’s incredibly inspiring to witness firsthand and I was fortunate enough to get a front row seat at the Emerging Designers Fashion Show on Friday evening (did I pretend like I was Anna Wintour? I did.).
Each of the seven featured designers had a story to tell and unique point of view to share; there were crop tops, off-the-shoulder blouses, prom dresses, wedding dresses, evening and casual looks. Basically, if you’re in need to revamp your entire wardrobe - jeans to jumpsuits - look no further than your own 804 backyard. The fashion show itself was also just so much fun; the positive energy, communal spirit and creative vibes were all flowing freely. Major congrats to everyone involved. Now, on to the fashion!
Grace Nelson
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Dramatic silhouettes and clean lines dominated at Grace Nelson. These Grecian-inspired one shoulder maxi dress begs for a major black tie moment; who has the First Lady’s number? (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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Long sleeves and an even longer hemline stays sexy (no easy feat!) with the peek-a-boo neckline, modern shape and classic red color. (Photo by Cary Wodehouse)
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I wanted to take this color-blocked blazer home with me. It’s an instant update to a wardrobe classic and would add a punch of personality to a workday outfit. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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How icy cool is this sexy cut-out number? The faux fur collar is an unexpected but most welcome addition to the slinky gown. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
TJ Sewer
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Tabitha Sewer brought a retro feel to the runway with her first look in one of her trademark feminine, full skirts. The print is playful but sophisticated and the sweet, vintage look is brought into today with that edgy braid. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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This tunic and short combo one of my favorite looks of the entire night. It’s young, fresh and is unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. Sheer panel meets hot pants meets crop top adds up to cool girl style to the infinite power. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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She may have started retro, by Sewer definitely finished in the future. This hooded sweater is giving major Yeezy vibes in the best way. It’d look so sweet with some ripped up boyfriend jeans and a pair of boots. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
PLV Markee Colden
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It was all about sporty looks and graphic prints at PLV. Designer Markee Colden mixed cheeky slogans like “We Are Rebels” with floral motifs on his t-shirts that both men and women can rock. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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The oversized bomber is totally on that “athleisure” trend and shows Colden’s range beyond just a t-shirt designer. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
Tangee’s Closet
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Coachella called and Tangee Massey Jones answered with her bohemian romp with her collection of crochet. If you never knew you needed a crocheted swimsuit, you do now. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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Fringe is always in and the blue is a stroke of brilliance; the matching purple and blue Muppet bag (that’s a compliment) is chic with a sense of humor. This girl is the one everyone wants to hang with, for sure. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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Vanessa Hudgens would die for this festival-ready romper. Not only is it a feat of craftsmanship, it’s also the most fun look of the whole night. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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Massey rounded out her summery, casual collection with a magical, cotton candy confection that a local high school lady just has to wear to prom. Part tulle, part crochet and all drama, it’s a whimsical look that shows Massey truly loves what she does. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
Stitch 89
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Designer Chanel Green offered young, classic separates that twenty-somethings can wear out on a Saturday night and to meet their boyfriend’s parents. Her collection is a perfect mix of trendy and classic, with this crop top/knee length skirt combo serving as a perfect example. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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Love a good patterned pant! While these look hot with the matching crop, they’d look equally as cool in a more casual way with a white t-shirt and denim jacket. Versatility wins at Stitch 89. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
Haus of Klyde
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Menswear is often left out of the innovation game when it comes to new shapes and silhouettes. Designer Klyde Wright shattered that stereotype with his androgynous chic collection. This tunic totally works for a guy; he’s intimidatingly cool and totally modern. The jeans fit like a dream. Wright has a keen eye for tailoring and fit. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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These metallic lace joggers are hands down the best piece of the entire evening. The proportion and fit is impeccable, the print is insane and the style is so now. Seriously, these could easily be on Zara’s racks today. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
Tough Cookie
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From what Project Runway taught me, designing and executing a swimsuit is hard. Corlette Dixon makes the daunting task look effortless with her S/S collection. These board shorts have a flattering contemporary cut and the camo print is a classic. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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Her women’s suits are sporty in a way that feels very 90s supermodel. Her girls want to look cute in the ocean for sure, but only after an intense gam of volleyball in the sand. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
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The collection isn’t all swimwear; her party looks are just as stylish. This group is definitely headed to Miami for spring break. (Photo by Carey Wodehouse)
