When the weather hits 90 degrees and all that’s forecasted is clear skies, you know I’ve fully booked my weekend in NYC. What’s on the itinerary you ask? A fashion show and food fair for the French Independence. Oh la la.
July 11th my calendar was marked to attend the 7th annual Fashion on the Hudson, free to all patrons and press, held at Riverside State Park in west Harlem.
July 12th was then the day to reward myself (for trekking to west Harlem) by eating sweets and pastries by the ones who do desserts the best—The French.
Outfit of choice for the beautiful weather.
The fashion show is run by Fashion Avenue News and focuses on displaying young and emerging talent showcasing dancers, models and designers. The auditorium was filled with photographers, models and designers eager to share their gifts and strengths to all those who would listen.
This city is over-flowing with people who want to be in the industry – me being one of them. I feel that fashion is a difficult industry because so many are trying to break into it. The interesting part is just because you like fashion doesn’t necessarily make you a talented designer. Fashion design is a gift and I think when someone has it, you just know. Their designs and collections will reflect a cohesive vision, they have a brand purpose, and they refuse to give up on their dream.
With that being said, two designers really caught my eye (and matched my own personal aesthetic). Anita Rivers of Classic Royalty Designs and Chrissy Crawford of Runway Couture. Both brought designs that I would buy off a clothing rack. Their designs exuded femininity with a whole lot of sass yet focused on keeping it well poised all at the same time. And let’s face it, perfecting that look is hard (I’m still trying to learn how to walk in heels and not spill coffee on my white pants).
Anita Rivers told me the story about how she just picked up a sewing machine and got to working. The unique thing about her? Call her the “neoprene queen.” The fabric is the staple in all her designs and fit-n-flare is her style. She aims for her designs to be worn among women of all ages. Pssssttt….keep an eye out for her Fall collection, I heard she’s looking to mix Aztec prints, warm textures and neoprene all into one, those pieces will surely be one of a kind.
Anita Rivers talking about her favorite fabric, neoprene.
Chrissy Crawford is originally from Virginia and is making way up the East Coast to show off some of her very sexy designs. The unique thing about her? No formal education is required and don’t compare her to another designer. She, like Anita just picked up a sewing machine and started to get to work, her mom actually had the same hobby growing up but went for a more professional career. Chrissy’s intention is to grind until she makes it to the top. She refuses to be put in a category of other designers and says she has a look all her own and wants to see Runway Couture in big bright lights. Sky is the limit for Ms. Crawford, so I would keep a look out.
A piece from Ms. Crawford’s ‘Runway Couture’ collection.
To check out these ladies designs visit their websites:
My favorite piece from Classic Royalty: Amber Dress, $300
Favorite piece from Runway Couture: Nikki Bodysuit, $35.00
After the show, I trekked to Xi’an Famous Foods for their famous spicy cumin lamb with hand pulled noodles and a cool cucumber salad. The delectable combination has my mouth sizzling but my stomach singing.
Stay tuned for Part II about Bastille Day!
