RVA Fashion Week

Modeling for RVA Fashion Week was a way different experience then, my past modeling opportunities. I've always considered myself an amateur model with great potential, but after being a around such a great set of models I've gained a lot more confidence in myself as a model. Rarely people get to see what happens back stage at a fashion show, and rarely do they hear it from an eye of a model. I feel that I do have some experience with fashion shows and have seen the good the bad and the ugly. Behind the scenes in any fashion show you can't avoid the chaos, but you can organize it. The directors of RVA Fashion Week did a great job organizing the hectic nature that comes with doing fashion shows. 

Leading up to Rva Fashion Week I knew it was going to be an exciting experience and great opportunity. Workshops at MTK Auto allowed me to practice and work with other models that I've got to know very well, and others I knew previously. All the models were beautiful and talented, and I'm sure will get more opportunities after the Rva Fashion Week. 

Threads Block Party at Hardywood Craft Brewery featured spring looks from RVA's favorite consignment and vintage boutiques. Of course my girl LaDainta Vintage was showcasing her exclusive vintage finds, and vending as well along with consignment shop Ashby which I jus discovered and will be visiting soon in Carytown. The show was set at Hardywood Craft Brewery which drew a crowd in its own, and also featured food trucks with great food. The stage was set where they held their Kegs, and  the vendors where set up around the runway. The audience was allowed to shop until showtime where they cleared the runway for the models the strut through. Being backstage we were in our own world enjoying each other's company and the music, but we were not expecting the audience to be that close, but loved the energy of the runway. There was a lot of positive energy and dancing behind stage, lot of laughs and a lot of waiting as well, patiently I may add. The staff was apart of the entertainment and added to the fun backstage. It was also my 25th birthday that day, and also my first time wearing make up.

The Second show for RVA Fashion Week was held at Maymont Robins Nature Center, and feature local Designers and boutiques. Featuring the spring collection of designers Angelia Couture by Angelia Cooper, Tough Cookie by Corlette, Mogiia Designers by Monique Blackwood, Saide by Stuart King, Mickey Roxx Brand by Michael Fletcher, WildWoman by Brittany Covington, Bathhouse Swimwear by Bernard Moore, and PLV by Markie Colden. Being that I'm an independent designer myself I made it a goal to network with the other designs to link up for future endeavors. The Fashion Show was held outside under a tent while backstage was inside, in a fair sized room, but with over a dozen models, hairstylist, designers, staff, and of course clothes the room got a little steamy. Hair and makeup started at 2 and the show started at 8, which is a large window with nothing to do. The staff was organizing the show and in between hair and makeup there was practice, a little exploring of the park, and fun times and good jokes, time flew. Most of the models where students, or belonged to se sort of modeling group or agency, I had some friends from Vsu modeling as well so there were no strangers in the room. The positive energy backstage increased the closer it got to showtime, seeing the venue set up and the DJ running through music can really amp you up. The show ran smoothly even with the rain the show was a success, and I had a great time.  

RVA Fashion Week will continued with a 2 part weekend finale fashion show featuring local designers and boutiques at Maymont Robins Nature Center featuring formal wear collections from Alice McQueen, and 707 Menswear boutique as well as local designers such as Angelia Couture by Angelia Cooper, AZI Blas Couture by Azi Blas, Runway Couture by Chrissy Crawford, Destinee's Creations by Tammi James, Leila Noon Bridal Kearsten Walden, Kamala by Kamala Bhagat, LaPosh by India Watson, Dee's Couture by Deborah Cooper. The show featured a lot more formal wear pieces and couture designs. The atmosphere was pretty much the same as the day before but a lot more relaxed. Although I was not interested in my hair being painted silver or gold. I knew I was going to look like Sisqo, or Dennis Rodman, but I pulled it off. I spent most my time admiring and mingling with some of the designers, laughing and passing time with models and staff. Of course my designer friend Chrissy for Runway Couture was featured that day, and apparently she has a few more shows up her sleeve. After modeling for RVA Fashion Week I definitely will design next year. 

Of course I interviewed some models and got there insight of what was going on backstage. Most of them are veteran models of RVA Fashion Week, and have being this was my first show I needed their input. 

Where's there a difference between this year and last year? Veterans 

How was your first Experience with RVA Fashion Week? 

"This year was better as far as publicity and venues it was a lot better this year and practice didn't take all your time..." Gabe (Veteran Model)

"It was fine, it has been a good time and I enjoyed it......Modeled years ago first show in 5 years, a lot of sitting around for guys, fun to meet network and get to know people," Logan 

"Always fabulous never a dull moment it's exciting to see new people and talent..we have better looking models and talent.." Erico. (5 year veteran) 

" It was amazing fun and energetic unlike anything I've ever done.. It wasn't hard I do this and I adapt," Ariel

What was the difficult part about doing RVA Fashion week? 

"Being on time with my busy schedule.." Erico Jordan (5 year Veteran)  

"Time management with real life and the show.." Casey (3 year Veteran)   

Any advice for models?

"Try it cause they take a diverse group of ppl and it's a great experience.." Casey 

"Go for it and do it big and fuck it up.. " Ariel

"Stay focused and follow your dreams.." Erico 

All professional images are from @Shine_inc www.shineincphotography.com