Florida Designers at Life’s a Label Fashion Show

Happy Holidays from IFF! Has it been as crazy a holiday for you as it has been for me? Well, I’m just glad to get back to what’s important…blogging! I have a couple of posts I’ve been excited to share so let’s get this party started…

Part of the fun of getting to know Orlando and growing this blog is being able to meet and see the work of local fashion designers. It’s impossible to not be inspired by people who have a deep love and passion for fashion as an art form. I recently experienced this excitement for fashion at Life’s a Label Fashion Show produced by Welcome Home Entertainment, which features local up and coming Florida designers. It was great to see how the designers embodied Florida style but added their own twist and flavor. But as the saying goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words” so I will leave you with some of my favorite looks from the event. There was a lot of great local talent at the show and I will be featuring them on future posts.

(Above: LoloDaisy by Lorena, 17-year old fashion designer and model, she's the 4th model from left to right)

Harriett’s Park Ave Fashion Show

Lights, camera, action! It was finally time for the main event: Harriett’s Park Avenue Fashion Show (read about my backstage experience here). As soon as I heard the music start I quickly headed to the media pit to take my place. ‘Alright, Iris—Take a deep breath and dive in.’

There I was with my tiny DSLR, holding it tightly like a newborn baby while I squeezed my way into the media mosh pit. So what if I was tripping over somebody’s tripod and occasionally getting elbowed when a professional photographer hit the shutter button. I didn’t mind it at all. Another photographer was kind enough to point out a small but cozy corner on the platform for me to sit. Clearly, I must have looked lost and confused. She looked up at me, smiled, and motioned for me to sit. Finally, I got my spot and I got my camera, that’s all I need. Now to document the show! Check out below for some of my favorite looks.

Unapologetic, big, bold, statement jewelry from Bahalia:

Harriet’s Park Avenue Fashion Show: Behind the Scenes

I am still in disbelief that little IFF was invited to cover one of the biggest fashion events in Orlando! I could barely contain my excitement as I walked up to the media check-in counter. I eagerly placed the media pass around my neck and quickly headed towards the entrance where two guards greeted me with big smiles and opened the double doors as if royalty had arrived. There was a flash of darkness and a blast of cold air that made my skin tingle. As my eyes (and body) became accustomed to the sudden change I began to see flashes of purple lights and haze. There I was, inside of the big white tent- sparkling in all its glory. I made it!