Nature’s Beauty Fashion Show
I’m a designer!!!
Dreams do come true for those who never give up.
I have completed my second fashion show as a designer!!! This time around I really pushed my creativity. I made a goal to create more unique pieces and a diverse group of women of all shapes and sizes. First let me explain what wearable art is.
Wearable art implies that the work is intended to be accepted as an artistic creation or statement. Each piece is handcrafted and it is often one of a kind. It is designed as conceptual or fine art. Wearable art is separate from mainstream fashion but it is closely related. As many people have called my pieces costumes they are unaware of the difference between wearable art and costumes. I do not get offended by it I either educate them on the difference or brush it off. To make things easier to understand. Think of wearable art as a sculpture or a painting that was made for the human body to wear on a stage or runway. Costumes are made for use in theater, cosplay, and even everyday life. They are created and used by an actor that plays a character. Wearable art is a painting, where imagination and creativity come to life. Check out World of Wearable Arts for a look at the wearable art competition to get an idea of what wearable art is.
Now that I have explained the difference between costumes and wearable art lets get back to my experience at my second fashion show and the things I have learned and gained. Being able to work with Earby Studios of Atlanta Georgia has been nothing but amazing and professional. Earby Studios is a multimedia company that showcases artwork in a gallery, hosts pop-up vendor markets, and provides live entertainment, all while shining light on Atlanta's upcoming legacies.
This is my second fashion show with Earby Studios but I have been a part of many other events that they have hosted in the past. Nature’s Beauty Fashion Week was a three day long event that consisted of Into the Jungle Art Exhibit, Paradise Beach Fashion Show (side note: I had the best seat during Paradise Beach Fashion Show. The yams on those models lol), and Blooming Finale Fashion Show.
Photographer: @Navy_Sky_photgraphy. Host Bria Edwards @bne_ from @Room1002exclusives who hosted NBFW. Panelist @dessyv__ , Jewels Alexandria @realrarejewls, LaLa @createdbylala
During the Paradise Beach Fashion Show I was a guest on the creative discussion panel. This was my first time doing a panel discussing my creativity and my journey as an artist.
I created twenty pieces, many of which were completely made out of floral and faux produce I purchased from Hobby Lobby or thrift stores nearby. My process of coming up with designs is did not always include pencil and a sketchbook or an iPad. I usually drape the mannequin with fabric or flowers to determine the design. From there I would sew a simple dress, skirt, or top and attach the flowers using hot glue or by hand using a needle and thread. There were a couple designs I struggled with and had to start over due to weight, materials (or lack there of), or functionality of it. One of my favorites was the grape piece which is extremely heavy, but the model handled it well and look absolutely amazing in it.
My vision of my collection is the connection women have with nature. I had the models walk barefoot down the runway to represent grounding with nature,“a walk in nature walks the soul back home.” I also wanted to represent all body types and skin complexions. So I was very particular when it came to picking my models. Based on their shape and skin tone I created something specifically for them and improvised if necessary while there.
Overall, I had a wonderful experience. Its been a month and I still can’t believe that I am a designer. Its really hard to grasp. When I sew or make clothes I never once labeled myself as a designer. Just an artist who will take any material and create art out of it. I appreciate everyone involved. My friend Sharae who stepped in and modeled for me at the last minute thank you so much, I truly appreciate you for everything. Including helping me get that corset on for the show lol. Also, thank you DeShanae for showing up to support me at the last minute. Thank you JD of Earby studios for always supporting my craft, encouraging me, and inviting me to be a designer for this show. I have picked his brain with many of my designs and what I should do or not do. You have truly turned into a close friend of mine. It's really nice and refreshing to have a friend who is also a creative person. Thank you to all of the models for being amazing. many are okay with wearing floral leaves and stems poking you or heavy grapes tied to chains. Most importantly thank you to my partner who would entertain our daughter and keep her away while I create.