A Vibrant Recap From Winter Park Fashion Week
By Maha Chaudhry
Did you catch the fabulous Winter Park Fashion Week Show? If not, we have you covered! Recapping the 4th year of boutique runway fashion – the event was nothing short of showstopper fun!
Founded in 2020, with the first show held in 2021, the annual show is in collaboration with about 14 to 16 boutiques and designers. Sarah Grafton, founder of Winter Park Fashion Week, explained how she and her family have always loved to support the local community, and in doing so, the fashion show displays local businesses, while simultaneously supporting a different charity partner each year. This year the charity supported was One Heart for Women and Children – a charity that helps individuals who are homeless or in times of need by providing essentials such as food, clothing, school supplies and beyond.
The event itself is run by volunteers and sponsors, and every year different brands have the chance to apply to be a part of the fashion show. This year, 15 boutiques and brands including The Grove, Arabella, Monkees, John Craig Clothier, Claudia Gutierrez Collection, Louise James and others, walked the runway. An additional fashion show day may be considered in the near future, as interest in participation continues to grow, however this would also call for additional sponsors and volunteers. Considering the consecutive success of the show, I am sure there will be heightened support for an extra day of fashion for a cause.
“The overall goal of Winter Park Fashion Week is to showcase and celebrate the creativity, diversity, and talent within Central Florida’s fashion industry, while also making an economic impact to the businesses showcased on the runway, and our city,” Sarah said. “Additionally, Winter Park Fashion Week is raising funds for charitable causes, promoting local businesses, and fostering community engagement and cultural exchange.”
In addition to a great show experience, I learned many of the photographers, videographers and the entire production crew was made up of the Full Sail University staff and students. According to Sarah, this brings a unique perspective as they take the show to the next level with their state-of-the-art facility and incredible talents.
And, I would have to agree – the production definitely set the stage for a great night.
Stay tuned for next year, as Winter Park Fashion Week will return with new styles, talent, and a great cause to support.
