Adventures in the World of Travel and Entertainment™ / International Edition
IT'S A WRAP! The First Ever Islands of the World Fashion Week - What happened!
Everything you want to know about the first-ever Islands of the World Fashion Week is below...what happened, who won, everything. To see photo galleries of the event, click here. To visit the official web site, click here.
Mode Îles, Ltd., organizer of the Islands of the World Fashion Week, has announced the recipients of the several awards selected during the event which had its premiere in Nassau 5th – 8th November.
Recipient of the Sustainable Eco-Fashion Award was Kuumba Designs by Queen Esther of St. Lucia:
Recipient of the Culture and Fashion Award was Tami B Designs by Tamiko Browne of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Recipient of the NextGen Designer Award was also Tamiko Browne of St. Vincent and the Grenadines:
Seals of Excellence were awarded to...
Heather Jones Designs by Heather Jones of Trinidad and Tobago:
Nadya by Nadine Lurey of Indonesia:
BREEZE Resort Couture by Claudia Pegus of Trinidad and Tobago:
House of St. John by Jeff St. John of The Bahamas:
and Harl Taylor BAG of The Bahamas:
Celebrity judges for the event included Nole Marin of America’s Top Model; Nick Verreos of Nikolaki and a former contender on Project Runway; Susan Stein, a former Fashion Director for Saks Fifth Avenue; and Alphadi, renowned Paris-based designer from Niger.
Designs of 38 designers from 13 island states around the world took to the catwalk in this premiere event aimed at showcasing the creativity and cultural diversity prevalent in the islands. Endorsed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the event drew attention to global issues such as the environment and climate change, the education of youth on HIV/AIDS, and poverty alleviation.
The Humanitarian Designer Award was presented to Kenneth Cole for his outstanding integration of the cause of HIV/AIDS in his marketing campaign. His award was accepted on his behalf by Dieter Paswaldt, Group Vice President at Kenneth Cole Productions and Michael DeVirgilio, Vice President of Licensing and Business Development.
Find more photos like this on NotesFromTheWorld.com
The organizers indicate that plans have already begun for next year’s event scheduled to take place 4th – 8th November, 2009.
Flashback: IWFW 2008
The first ever Islands of the World Fashion Week, 5th - 8th November, 2008, in Nassau and Paradise Island, Bahamas, is behind us now. Our Here's what we knew going into the spectacular 2008 edition:
What We Knew Beforehand!
Islands of the World Fashion Week has called on all designers, models, media, industry people, and “fashionistas” to meet in the islands of the Bahamas for a week of fashion, fun, and awareness for a greater cause. Imagine the excitement, dazzle, and star power of Fashion week Paris fused with the white sanded beaches which outline the clear blue waters of the islands. Nassau, the jewel of the Bahamas and Paradise Island will host this extravagant event which will also be used as a platform to bring awareness to global issues which significantly affect the island states.
The very latest news...
Renowned international designer, Peter Nygard, has accepted the invitation to join the panel of celebrity judges formed to select the recipients of the Sustainable Eco-Fashion Award, the Culture & Fashion Award, the NextGen Designer Award, and the Seals of Excellence at the highly-anticipated premiere of Islands of the World Fashion Week to commence on Wednesday, 5th November.
The judging, in the various categories among the 38 designers from 12 island states presenting at Fashion Week, will take place throughout the entire week. Candidates for the Sustainable Eco-Fashion Award and the Culture & Fashion Award will be judged at the Opening Reception on the evening of Wednesday, 5th November. However, the recipients of the awards will not be disclosed until the Closing Reception on Saturday, 8th November.
Mr. Nygard, whose mega-fashion empire is based out of North America, also resides in The Bahamas where he has built a state of the art luxurious 150,000 sq.ft. private resort at NYGARD CAY at the western tip of the island of New Providence. Mr. Nygard will host and entertain over 200 invited guests of Islands of the World Fashion Week at the resort after the Closing Reception - a fitting climax to the end of activities of Fashion Week
The guest list will include fellow celebrity judges Nole Marin of America's Next Top Model, Susan Stein, Nick Verreos of NIKOLAKI, and Alphadi. The after-party will be the final event after a week of social activities which will include a Welcome Reception at the Graycliff/Humidor restaurant, a Cultural Display hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, and a reception at the recently-opened Bob Marley Resort.
In other recent IWFW news, it was announced that a special focus will be given at this premiere event to a unique regional product and fabric, originating within the islands, known as the West Indian Sea Island Cotton. Owen Bethel, President of Mode Îles, Ltd. and creator of Islands of the World Fashion Week, stated "According to sources, West Indian Sea Island Cotton is the world's highest quality cotton and is grown in only a few islands within the region. It is known for its silk-like feel and texture, and because its fibers are longer than most other types of cotton it is ideal for high-end quality garments."
Mr. Bethel continued that "In keeping with the endorsement of the United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization (UNESCO) of the event, and UNESCO's interest in encouraging the preservation of indigenous industries alongside the development of the creative arts, adding value to the local manufacturing process, and because it is a product unique to the islands and which is impacted by both trade and competitive synthetic patterns, there was no hesitation in obtaining support for the request of Claudia Pegus, working in collaboration with Exclusive Cottons of the Caribbean Inc., the major producer of the cotton in the region, to showcase a line of clothing made from 100% pure West Indian Sea Island Cotton. This is a classic example of encouraging the value-added growth of the fashion industry from the raw product in the ground to the processing and creation of a high-end consumer product"
Claudia Pegus, Pictured Above
Claudia Pegus, a veteran designer in the Caribbean fashion industry, is a native of Trinidad & Tobago. She has received many accolades for her work and initiative, the latest being the recipient of the Masters Award and Designer of the Year Award at the Caribbean Fashion Week 2008. She was also a previous recipient of her country's top business award, "Female Entrepreneur of the Year". Ms. Pegus will launch her new collection of resort wear, under the label "Breeze" Resort Wear Couture, on Thursday, 6th November, 2008 at the historic British Colonial Hilton, Nassau, Bahamas. For this collection she joined forces with New York-based menswear designer, Francis Hendy, and Jamaica-born milliner, Marcellas James, both of whom she has worked with on previous collections. This all white new collection, "Breeze", includes heavily embellished, richly beaded caftans, sarongs, men's shirts, hats and bags.
Ms. Pegus notes "I am thrilled to be working alongside these two very talented designers on this project. This is a micro-step in my ambition to further develop and maximize the potential of the Caribbean fashion industry using our indigenous fabric that is in such great demand worldwide." In respect of the industry she adds "There is a lot of potential within the region so while I enjoy the creativity involved in producing fashion, I am also consumed by the business of fashion, that is, how to get governments and even designers themselves to take note that the fashion industry has the ability to generate great revenue, contribute significantly to GDP and employ thousands of people in the Caribbean."
As previously reported:
November 5th, 2008 will be a historic date as the Islands of the Bahamas will host their first ever fashion week. The British Colonial Hilton in Nassau and the Atlantis Resort in Paradise Island are the proper hosts cherry picked to display the works of storied and up and coming designers for this four day long event. Designers will have the opportunity to have models strut garments specifically designed for Island Fashion Week. Designers must exhibit at lease one garment that entails cultural elements of the island they represent and one garment that represents the designer’s awareness to one or more global social issues.
Island Fashion Week will boast the works of 36 designers in addition to three international guest designers, Peter Ingwersen of Noir Illuminati II from Denmark, Nick Verreos of Nikolaki from the United States, and Kevan Hall also from the United States. The 36 designers represent 13 island nations around the world. Also featured is a celebrity panel including noted fashion stylist and television personality Nolé Marin, renowned Paris-based designer from Niger, and founder of the International Festival of African Fashion (FIMA), Alphadi, and 30 year veteran in the fashion and retail industry Susan Stein whose resume includes having served as Fashion and Public Relations Director for Saks Fifth Avenue in New York.
Island Fashion Week’s promise to bring amazing fashion shows and unforgettable after parties has already created a buzz as it has caught the attention of celebrities and socialites around the globe. The Bahamian Ministry of Tourism will play a vital role in Island Fashion Week as they will provide support for visiting dignitaries, VIP’s, celebrities, and media. Invited celebrities include Oprah Winfrey, P Diddy, Jennifer Lopez, Stacey London, Tyra Banks, Lenny Kravitz, Rihanna, Beyonce Knowles, Tim Gunn, and various other big names in the entertainment world. This kind of star power is what the creators of Island Fashion Week had in mind to bring attention to the islands and their causes. Those who are aware of the issues affecting the world today know, “eco” is the route to go and in fashion it is synonymous with fabulous.
Island Fashion Week is the brainchild of Owen Bethel. Bethel, President of The Montaque Group conceived this not to be just another fashion week. He sites the fact that this event specifically focuses on designers from the islands which conjures up images of a unique lifestyle, both exotic and beautiful. Cuban born Tomas Frenes was brought in by Bethel to over see Islands of the World Fashion Week. Frenes is no stranger to fashion as he has received wide acclaim as the former Deputy Director for the Americas of the Versace fashion empire and now owns and operates Tomas Frenes Design in Miami, Florida. Both visionaries have challenged all designers to use their work as a platform to display sensitivity towards global issues which include the environment, the education of youth on HIV/AIDS, and poverty alleviation. To call attention to their cause Kenneth Cole and Kenneth Cole Productions, Inc. will be presented with the Humanitarian Designer Award during the Islands of Fashion Week for using the Kenneth Cole label as an educational tool to combat HIV/AIDS.
“Hopefully this event will serve as a catalyst for persons to take a serious look at the creativity of designers from the islands,” confided Bethel. “It should similarly debunk the perception that designs being produced from the islands could only be beachwear, leisure or tropical in nature. Buyers, fashionistas and attendees will be pleasantly surprised at the diversity in styles and creativity generated from the islands, something I describe as a ‘mosaic of lifestyles’.”
Tomas Frenes stated that he was "particularly pleased to be associated with this unique and innovative event as one who has roots in the islands, but more so that the event was conceived to not only showcase the creativity and style generated within the islands of the world but to also project sensitivity for the environment and incorporate elements of culture. Never in my experience have these been combined into a single catwalk presentation as a part of a fashion week. It is an exciting concept and I am looking forward to creating an inspiring experience for both the designers and industry executives."
Tomas Frenes
“Presenting designers are being challenged to present garments or accessories which display sensitivity to any one or more of many global social issues,” explained Bethel about the heart of IWFW. “The recognition and tolerance of cultural diversity, in an effort to bring about a culture of peace, are also significant themes of the event as a reflection of the mission of UNESCO.”
He further explained that designers “are again challenged to create garments or accessories which depict elements of their own culture or cross-cultural components. It is my belief that this particular attention to culture will not only make this a unique event but also go a long way to ensure its success as even internationally-renown designers are known to adopt exotic and foreign elements into their designs and creations.”
Bethel also stated, “The mere fact that the event is even taking place in the first instance is a degree of success. This will only be enhanced by the presence of buyers, agents and an international press to provide the essential visibility and exposure to the various designers, and hopefully result in individual pieces or lines being purchased.”
Peter Ingwersen Leads Line-up of International Guest Designers
Peter Ingwersen, designer at NOIR, is known for his attention to detail and focus on environmentally-friendly materials and processes within his designs. This has placed him at the vanguard of the eco-fashion industry. Previously Head of Design for Levi's Nordic Region, Global Brand Director for Levi's Vintage Clothing and Levi's RED, and a Member of the Levi's Brand Management Leadership Team, Mr. Ingwersen established Noir Illuminati II in March 2005. NOIR appeals to the fashion and social conscience of the consumer, by encouraging consumption which gives back globally through the support of sustainable business practices in the Third World.
Mr. Ingwersen summarizes the mission of Noir Illuminati II as follows: "We want to be known as the first brand to bring sophistication and sexiness to corporate social
Responsibility.”
Over the course of the next year, Mr. Ingwersen hopes to establish the NOIR Foundation - a fund that will allocate the revenue from a percentage of the sales of cotton suits and fabric to support the African cotton workers in the supply chain called Proud Harvent.
Owen Bethel expressed, "It is a pleasure to have the caliber of design and the message projected by NOIR grace the catwalk of this premiere event. Through their unified presentation of elegant fashion, Mr. Ingwersen and NOIR represent the global concerns of the environment, labour and human rights, and initiatives in respect of poverty alleviation, all relevant to the issues to be highlighted by Islands of the World Fashion Week, and at the core of the themes of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which has endorsed the event. NOIR will take center stage at the Opening Reception."
Mr. Bethel explains further that "NOIR is one of several non-island designers chosen to participate for their contributions to the fashion industry in one form or another. These are the international guest designers. The event is intended, primarily, to showcase the collections of established and new designers from islands around the world. To date, we have designers registered from Barbados, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Fiji, Indonesia, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Trinidad and Tobago, and The Bahamas. Interest has also been expressed by designers from Grenada, Guadeloupe, Madagascar, Martinique, Mauritius, and Puerto Rico. We will announce the names of those designers selected from the islands in late July and early August as the deadline for submission of applications is the end of July and the Screening Committee is still processing these applications. "
Islands of the World Fashion Week To Welcome Designer Nick Verreos
Nick Verreos, the noted designer behind the label, Nikolaki, will showcase his latest creations on the catwalk of Islands of the World Fashion Week in November, 2008 as one of the select international guest designers.
Nick Verreos is best known as one of the breakout designers from Bravo's Project Runway (Second Season), and winner of the Barbie Challenge. Launched in 2001, with his partner David Paul, the line Nikolaki is carried in stores such as Henri Bendel, Nordstrom, Fred Segal, Diavolina, Aero & Co. and Mushi Mushi. Celebrities such as Marlee Matlin, Heidi Klum, Eva Longoria and Brenda Strong of Desperate Housewives, Patricia Arquette, Kathy Griffin and Nikka Costa have all worn his creations.
In addition to creating his Red Carpet designs for Nikolaki, Mr. Verreos has extended his success as a fashion expert on TV Guide's Fashion Wrap with Lisa Rinna, Fashion Team, and E! Countdown to the Academy Awards. He is also one of the Glam Squad on the MSN.com style site, Style Studio. A graduate of UCLA in political science and international relations, Mr. Verreos continued his studies in advanced fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, where he has returned and currently serves as a lecturer and the Official Spokesperson for the institution.
Mr. Verreos' line, Nikolaki, will grace the catwalk of Islands of the World Fashion Week in November. He will also share his signature wit and experience during Islands of the World Fashion Week by hosting a talk and "face to face" on the fashion industry for designers and other interested persons, and participating as a guest judge for the evaluation and presentation of the recognition awards.
Renown Designer Kevan Hall To Close IWFW
Kevan Hall, fashion designer to stars such as Vanessa Williams, Sharon Stone, Katherine Heigl, Felicity Huffman, Ruby Dee, Debra Messing, Angela Bassett, Salma Hayek and Charlize Theron, will close out the week of activities during the Islands of the World Fashion Week in November with the presentation of his latest collection of stunning garments on the catwalk of the Closing Reception at the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island.
Mr. Hall distinguished himself in the fashion industry from a young age, having studied fashion design at Cass Technical High School in Detroit and then at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in California where he received the Peacock Award for "Outstanding Fashion Design". Mr. Hall's career path then took him to the hallowed house of Halston where he became the Design and Creative Director, reviving the brand to its former glory.
In 2002 Kevan Hall launched his own signature Kevan Hall Collection which emphasized "purity of style, incomparable tailoring and sensuously draped streamlined silhouettes".
His designs capture elegance in simplicity. In 2002, he was the recipient of the 47'h Gold Coast "Designer of the Year" Fashion Award in Chicago, and in 2005 the Stylemaker of the Year Award by Life and Style Magazine. Mr. Hall has made guest appearances on many national television shows within the United States of America, including Inside Edition, Extreme Makeover, SoapTalk, and E! Fashion Police.
Islands of the World Fashion Week will highlight the themes of cultural diversity and dialogue, and will draw attention to the global issues of the environment and climate change, the education of youth on HIV/AIDS, and poverty alleviation, particularly as they impact small island states. The event is endorsed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) based in Paris.
The Judges
In addition to Nick Verreos and Peter Ingwersen, the judges for the selection of recipients of the awards in Sustainable Eco-Fashion, Culture & Fashion, and NextGen Designer Award (emerging designer award) at IWFW are...
Nolé Marin, noted fashion stylist and television personality, served as a judge on the television reality series, America's Next Top Model, and has contributed as a fashion expert on numerous television shows and celebrity events including the Academy Awards, the Golden Globe Awards, Cannes Film Festival, VH1 Fashion Awards, and the New York Fashion Week. His clientele includes Tommy Hilfiger, Tyra Banks, Iman, Hugh Jackman, Heidi Klum, Lenny Kravitz, Alicia Keys, Kanye West, Ricky Martin, Beverley Johnson, and Chloe Sevigny. He is a coach on the MTV hit show "Made", and serves as creative director for Canada's Next Top Model.
Alphadi, renowned Paris-based designer from Niger, is the founder of the International Festival of African Fashion (FIMA), held in Niger, which simultaneously promotes the themes of "Peace, Culture and Development".
Susan Stein has accumulated over 30 years of experience in the fashion and retail industry in the United States of America, serving as Fashion and Public Relations Director for Saks Fifth Avenue in New York and Connecticut, and Director of the Personal Shopping Department of Bloomingdales in Los Angeles. Susan is a lecturer at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles and serves as the Fashion Editor of Palm Springs Life Magazine. She is also the Producer/Director of Fashion Week El Paseo in Palm Desert, California.
Dream Realized
Kicking off on November 5th, Island Fashion week plans to be a star studded affair under the Caribbean sun. Owen Bethel has realized his dream as Beautiful models, amazing designers, run way fashion shows, celebrities, and amazing after parties will turn the islands of the Bahamas into fashion central for four days. His true dream realized though is that through these efforts glitz and glamour will be a platform to improve our environment.
For additional information, visit the official Islands of the World Fashion Week web site.
Mode Îles, Ltd., organizer of the Islands of the World Fashion Week, has announced the recipients of the several awards selected during the event which had its premiere in Nassau 5th – 8th November.
Recipient of the Sustainable Eco-Fashion Award was Kuumba Designs by Queen Esther of St. Lucia:
Recipient of the Culture and Fashion Award was Tami B Designs by Tamiko Browne of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Recipient of the NextGen Designer Award was also Tamiko Browne of St. Vincent and the Grenadines:
Seals of Excellence were awarded to...
Heather Jones Designs by Heather Jones of Trinidad and Tobago:
Nadya by Nadine Lurey of Indonesia:
BREEZE Resort Couture by Claudia Pegus of Trinidad and Tobago:
House of St. John by Jeff St. John of The Bahamas:
and Harl Taylor BAG of The Bahamas:
Celebrity judges for the event included Nole Marin of America’s Top Model; Nick Verreos of Nikolaki and a former contender on Project Runway; Susan Stein, a former Fashion Director for Saks Fifth Avenue; and Alphadi, renowned Paris-based designer from Niger.
Designs of 38 designers from 13 island states around the world took to the catwalk in this premiere event aimed at showcasing the creativity and cultural diversity prevalent in the islands. Endorsed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the event drew attention to global issues such as the environment and climate change, the education of youth on HIV/AIDS, and poverty alleviation.
The Humanitarian Designer Award was presented to Kenneth Cole for his outstanding integration of the cause of HIV/AIDS in his marketing campaign. His award was accepted on his behalf by Dieter Paswaldt, Group Vice President at Kenneth Cole Productions and Michael DeVirgilio, Vice President of Licensing and Business Development.
Find more photos like this on NotesFromTheWorld.com
The organizers indicate that plans have already begun for next year’s event scheduled to take place 4th – 8th November, 2009.
Flashback: IWFW 2008
The first ever Islands of the World Fashion Week, 5th - 8th November, 2008, in Nassau and Paradise Island, Bahamas, is behind us now. Our Here's what we knew going into the spectacular 2008 edition:
What We Knew Beforehand!
Islands of the World Fashion Week has called on all designers, models, media, industry people, and “fashionistas” to meet in the islands of the Bahamas for a week of fashion, fun, and awareness for a greater cause. Imagine the excitement, dazzle, and star power of Fashion week Paris fused with the white sanded beaches which outline the clear blue waters of the islands. Nassau, the jewel of the Bahamas and Paradise Island will host this extravagant event which will also be used as a platform to bring awareness to global issues which significantly affect the island states.
The very latest news...
Renowned international designer, Peter Nygard, has accepted the invitation to join the panel of celebrity judges formed to select the recipients of the Sustainable Eco-Fashion Award, the Culture & Fashion Award, the NextGen Designer Award, and the Seals of Excellence at the highly-anticipated premiere of Islands of the World Fashion Week to commence on Wednesday, 5th November.
The judging, in the various categories among the 38 designers from 12 island states presenting at Fashion Week, will take place throughout the entire week. Candidates for the Sustainable Eco-Fashion Award and the Culture & Fashion Award will be judged at the Opening Reception on the evening of Wednesday, 5th November. However, the recipients of the awards will not be disclosed until the Closing Reception on Saturday, 8th November.
Mr. Nygard, whose mega-fashion empire is based out of North America, also resides in The Bahamas where he has built a state of the art luxurious 150,000 sq.ft. private resort at NYGARD CAY at the western tip of the island of New Providence. Mr. Nygard will host and entertain over 200 invited guests of Islands of the World Fashion Week at the resort after the Closing Reception - a fitting climax to the end of activities of Fashion Week
The guest list will include fellow celebrity judges Nole Marin of America's Next Top Model, Susan Stein, Nick Verreos of NIKOLAKI, and Alphadi. The after-party will be the final event after a week of social activities which will include a Welcome Reception at the Graycliff/Humidor restaurant, a Cultural Display hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, and a reception at the recently-opened Bob Marley Resort.
In other recent IWFW news, it was announced that a special focus will be given at this premiere event to a unique regional product and fabric, originating within the islands, known as the West Indian Sea Island Cotton. Owen Bethel, President of Mode Îles, Ltd. and creator of Islands of the World Fashion Week, stated "According to sources, West Indian Sea Island Cotton is the world's highest quality cotton and is grown in only a few islands within the region. It is known for its silk-like feel and texture, and because its fibers are longer than most other types of cotton it is ideal for high-end quality garments."
Mr. Bethel continued that "In keeping with the endorsement of the United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization (UNESCO) of the event, and UNESCO's interest in encouraging the preservation of indigenous industries alongside the development of the creative arts, adding value to the local manufacturing process, and because it is a product unique to the islands and which is impacted by both trade and competitive synthetic patterns, there was no hesitation in obtaining support for the request of Claudia Pegus, working in collaboration with Exclusive Cottons of the Caribbean Inc., the major producer of the cotton in the region, to showcase a line of clothing made from 100% pure West Indian Sea Island Cotton. This is a classic example of encouraging the value-added growth of the fashion industry from the raw product in the ground to the processing and creation of a high-end consumer product"
Claudia Pegus, Pictured Above
Claudia Pegus, a veteran designer in the Caribbean fashion industry, is a native of Trinidad & Tobago. She has received many accolades for her work and initiative, the latest being the recipient of the Masters Award and Designer of the Year Award at the Caribbean Fashion Week 2008. She was also a previous recipient of her country's top business award, "Female Entrepreneur of the Year". Ms. Pegus will launch her new collection of resort wear, under the label "Breeze" Resort Wear Couture, on Thursday, 6th November, 2008 at the historic British Colonial Hilton, Nassau, Bahamas. For this collection she joined forces with New York-based menswear designer, Francis Hendy, and Jamaica-born milliner, Marcellas James, both of whom she has worked with on previous collections. This all white new collection, "Breeze", includes heavily embellished, richly beaded caftans, sarongs, men's shirts, hats and bags.
Ms. Pegus notes "I am thrilled to be working alongside these two very talented designers on this project. This is a micro-step in my ambition to further develop and maximize the potential of the Caribbean fashion industry using our indigenous fabric that is in such great demand worldwide." In respect of the industry she adds "There is a lot of potential within the region so while I enjoy the creativity involved in producing fashion, I am also consumed by the business of fashion, that is, how to get governments and even designers themselves to take note that the fashion industry has the ability to generate great revenue, contribute significantly to GDP and employ thousands of people in the Caribbean."
As previously reported:
November 5th, 2008 will be a historic date as the Islands of the Bahamas will host their first ever fashion week. The British Colonial Hilton in Nassau and the Atlantis Resort in Paradise Island are the proper hosts cherry picked to display the works of storied and up and coming designers for this four day long event. Designers will have the opportunity to have models strut garments specifically designed for Island Fashion Week. Designers must exhibit at lease one garment that entails cultural elements of the island they represent and one garment that represents the designer’s awareness to one or more global social issues.
Island Fashion Week will boast the works of 36 designers in addition to three international guest designers, Peter Ingwersen of Noir Illuminati II from Denmark, Nick Verreos of Nikolaki from the United States, and Kevan Hall also from the United States. The 36 designers represent 13 island nations around the world. Also featured is a celebrity panel including noted fashion stylist and television personality Nolé Marin, renowned Paris-based designer from Niger, and founder of the International Festival of African Fashion (FIMA), Alphadi, and 30 year veteran in the fashion and retail industry Susan Stein whose resume includes having served as Fashion and Public Relations Director for Saks Fifth Avenue in New York.
Island Fashion Week’s promise to bring amazing fashion shows and unforgettable after parties has already created a buzz as it has caught the attention of celebrities and socialites around the globe. The Bahamian Ministry of Tourism will play a vital role in Island Fashion Week as they will provide support for visiting dignitaries, VIP’s, celebrities, and media. Invited celebrities include Oprah Winfrey, P Diddy, Jennifer Lopez, Stacey London, Tyra Banks, Lenny Kravitz, Rihanna, Beyonce Knowles, Tim Gunn, and various other big names in the entertainment world. This kind of star power is what the creators of Island Fashion Week had in mind to bring attention to the islands and their causes. Those who are aware of the issues affecting the world today know, “eco” is the route to go and in fashion it is synonymous with fabulous.
Island Fashion Week is the brainchild of Owen Bethel. Bethel, President of The Montaque Group conceived this not to be just another fashion week. He sites the fact that this event specifically focuses on designers from the islands which conjures up images of a unique lifestyle, both exotic and beautiful. Cuban born Tomas Frenes was brought in by Bethel to over see Islands of the World Fashion Week. Frenes is no stranger to fashion as he has received wide acclaim as the former Deputy Director for the Americas of the Versace fashion empire and now owns and operates Tomas Frenes Design in Miami, Florida. Both visionaries have challenged all designers to use their work as a platform to display sensitivity towards global issues which include the environment, the education of youth on HIV/AIDS, and poverty alleviation. To call attention to their cause Kenneth Cole and Kenneth Cole Productions, Inc. will be presented with the Humanitarian Designer Award during the Islands of Fashion Week for using the Kenneth Cole label as an educational tool to combat HIV/AIDS.
Kenneth Cole
Mr. Bethel stated that "in keeping with the event's focus on the global issues of the education of youth on HIV/AIDS, and poverty alleviation, in line with the United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization (UNESCO), it was felt that no other fashion designer personified so explicitly the concern for these issues through their creative integration in his designs and marketing initiative than Kenneth Cole. His innovative approach to addressing and drawing attention to the issues is both outstanding and poignant. Mr. Cole took the bold step as a vanguard in the fashion industry and essentially turned his label into an effective educational tool on the scourge of HIV/AIDS, calling everyone to action in the fight against the pandemic.
He has also stood out in the fight against poverty with his initiatives in the inner city of New York. Mr. Cole has allowed both his label and stores to be used without reservation in getting the message across." In 2007 the New York stores served as a distribution point for the first ever city-sanctioned condoms, commonly known as the NYC Condom, in the United States of America. The launch of this city-wide condom initiative was paralleled with the release of a new line of tee shirts and boxer shorts designed by Kenneth Cole. Each contained a condom-size pocket and a discreet woven label with the tagline written by Kenneth Cole and reading: "Safety Instructions: This Garment And its Contents Should Be Worn Whenever Conceivable." In 2005 he was instrumental in the launch of the "We All Have AIDS" public service promotional campaign during World AIDS Day.
Kenneth Cole, the philanthropist and humanitarian, believes that "it is great to be known for your shoes. It is even better to be recognized for your soul." He has been consistent and deliberate in his fusion of fashion and social action, and has served as Chairman of The American Foundation for AIDS Research (AmfAR) and as a member of the board of the homeless organization, HELP USA. Mr. Bethel continued: "It is an honour for us that Mr. Cole has agreed to accept this award at the premiere of this event and thereby be the first recipient of the award. By this selection we have set the standard high for those designers who would wish to follow in being considered for the award, a search that will certainly be worldwide going forward. The presentation of the award will be marked by the display of several select designs from the Kenneth Cole collection. The award itself has been uniquely designed and crafted by Waterford Crystal of Ireland."
Owen Bethel
“Hopefully this event will serve as a catalyst for persons to take a serious look at the creativity of designers from the islands,” confided Bethel. “It should similarly debunk the perception that designs being produced from the islands could only be beachwear, leisure or tropical in nature. Buyers, fashionistas and attendees will be pleasantly surprised at the diversity in styles and creativity generated from the islands, something I describe as a ‘mosaic of lifestyles’.”
Tomas Frenes stated that he was "particularly pleased to be associated with this unique and innovative event as one who has roots in the islands, but more so that the event was conceived to not only showcase the creativity and style generated within the islands of the world but to also project sensitivity for the environment and incorporate elements of culture. Never in my experience have these been combined into a single catwalk presentation as a part of a fashion week. It is an exciting concept and I am looking forward to creating an inspiring experience for both the designers and industry executives."
Tomas Frenes
“Presenting designers are being challenged to present garments or accessories which display sensitivity to any one or more of many global social issues,” explained Bethel about the heart of IWFW. “The recognition and tolerance of cultural diversity, in an effort to bring about a culture of peace, are also significant themes of the event as a reflection of the mission of UNESCO.”
He further explained that designers “are again challenged to create garments or accessories which depict elements of their own culture or cross-cultural components. It is my belief that this particular attention to culture will not only make this a unique event but also go a long way to ensure its success as even internationally-renown designers are known to adopt exotic and foreign elements into their designs and creations.”
Bethel also stated, “The mere fact that the event is even taking place in the first instance is a degree of success. This will only be enhanced by the presence of buyers, agents and an international press to provide the essential visibility and exposure to the various designers, and hopefully result in individual pieces or lines being purchased.”
Peter Ingwersen Leads Line-up of International Guest Designers
Peter Ingwersen, designer at NOIR, is known for his attention to detail and focus on environmentally-friendly materials and processes within his designs. This has placed him at the vanguard of the eco-fashion industry. Previously Head of Design for Levi's Nordic Region, Global Brand Director for Levi's Vintage Clothing and Levi's RED, and a Member of the Levi's Brand Management Leadership Team, Mr. Ingwersen established Noir Illuminati II in March 2005. NOIR appeals to the fashion and social conscience of the consumer, by encouraging consumption which gives back globally through the support of sustainable business practices in the Third World.
Mr. Ingwersen summarizes the mission of Noir Illuminati II as follows: "We want to be known as the first brand to bring sophistication and sexiness to corporate social
Responsibility.”
Over the course of the next year, Mr. Ingwersen hopes to establish the NOIR Foundation - a fund that will allocate the revenue from a percentage of the sales of cotton suits and fabric to support the African cotton workers in the supply chain called Proud Harvent.
Owen Bethel expressed, "It is a pleasure to have the caliber of design and the message projected by NOIR grace the catwalk of this premiere event. Through their unified presentation of elegant fashion, Mr. Ingwersen and NOIR represent the global concerns of the environment, labour and human rights, and initiatives in respect of poverty alleviation, all relevant to the issues to be highlighted by Islands of the World Fashion Week, and at the core of the themes of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which has endorsed the event. NOIR will take center stage at the Opening Reception."
Mr. Bethel explains further that "NOIR is one of several non-island designers chosen to participate for their contributions to the fashion industry in one form or another. These are the international guest designers. The event is intended, primarily, to showcase the collections of established and new designers from islands around the world. To date, we have designers registered from Barbados, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Fiji, Indonesia, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Trinidad and Tobago, and The Bahamas. Interest has also been expressed by designers from Grenada, Guadeloupe, Madagascar, Martinique, Mauritius, and Puerto Rico. We will announce the names of those designers selected from the islands in late July and early August as the deadline for submission of applications is the end of July and the Screening Committee is still processing these applications. "
Islands of the World Fashion Week To Welcome Designer Nick Verreos
Nick Verreos, the noted designer behind the label, Nikolaki, will showcase his latest creations on the catwalk of Islands of the World Fashion Week in November, 2008 as one of the select international guest designers.
Nick Verreos is best known as one of the breakout designers from Bravo's Project Runway (Second Season), and winner of the Barbie Challenge. Launched in 2001, with his partner David Paul, the line Nikolaki is carried in stores such as Henri Bendel, Nordstrom, Fred Segal, Diavolina, Aero & Co. and Mushi Mushi. Celebrities such as Marlee Matlin, Heidi Klum, Eva Longoria and Brenda Strong of Desperate Housewives, Patricia Arquette, Kathy Griffin and Nikka Costa have all worn his creations.
In addition to creating his Red Carpet designs for Nikolaki, Mr. Verreos has extended his success as a fashion expert on TV Guide's Fashion Wrap with Lisa Rinna, Fashion Team, and E! Countdown to the Academy Awards. He is also one of the Glam Squad on the MSN.com style site, Style Studio. A graduate of UCLA in political science and international relations, Mr. Verreos continued his studies in advanced fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, where he has returned and currently serves as a lecturer and the Official Spokesperson for the institution.
Mr. Verreos' line, Nikolaki, will grace the catwalk of Islands of the World Fashion Week in November. He will also share his signature wit and experience during Islands of the World Fashion Week by hosting a talk and "face to face" on the fashion industry for designers and other interested persons, and participating as a guest judge for the evaluation and presentation of the recognition awards.
Renown Designer Kevan Hall To Close IWFW
Kevan Hall, fashion designer to stars such as Vanessa Williams, Sharon Stone, Katherine Heigl, Felicity Huffman, Ruby Dee, Debra Messing, Angela Bassett, Salma Hayek and Charlize Theron, will close out the week of activities during the Islands of the World Fashion Week in November with the presentation of his latest collection of stunning garments on the catwalk of the Closing Reception at the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island.
Mr. Hall distinguished himself in the fashion industry from a young age, having studied fashion design at Cass Technical High School in Detroit and then at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in California where he received the Peacock Award for "Outstanding Fashion Design". Mr. Hall's career path then took him to the hallowed house of Halston where he became the Design and Creative Director, reviving the brand to its former glory.
In 2002 Kevan Hall launched his own signature Kevan Hall Collection which emphasized "purity of style, incomparable tailoring and sensuously draped streamlined silhouettes".
His designs capture elegance in simplicity. In 2002, he was the recipient of the 47'h Gold Coast "Designer of the Year" Fashion Award in Chicago, and in 2005 the Stylemaker of the Year Award by Life and Style Magazine. Mr. Hall has made guest appearances on many national television shows within the United States of America, including Inside Edition, Extreme Makeover, SoapTalk, and E! Fashion Police.
Islands of the World Fashion Week will highlight the themes of cultural diversity and dialogue, and will draw attention to the global issues of the environment and climate change, the education of youth on HIV/AIDS, and poverty alleviation, particularly as they impact small island states. The event is endorsed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) based in Paris.
The Judges
In addition to Nick Verreos and Peter Ingwersen, the judges for the selection of recipients of the awards in Sustainable Eco-Fashion, Culture & Fashion, and NextGen Designer Award (emerging designer award) at IWFW are...
Nolé Marin, noted fashion stylist and television personality, served as a judge on the television reality series, America's Next Top Model, and has contributed as a fashion expert on numerous television shows and celebrity events including the Academy Awards, the Golden Globe Awards, Cannes Film Festival, VH1 Fashion Awards, and the New York Fashion Week. His clientele includes Tommy Hilfiger, Tyra Banks, Iman, Hugh Jackman, Heidi Klum, Lenny Kravitz, Alicia Keys, Kanye West, Ricky Martin, Beverley Johnson, and Chloe Sevigny. He is a coach on the MTV hit show "Made", and serves as creative director for Canada's Next Top Model.
Alphadi, renowned Paris-based designer from Niger, is the founder of the International Festival of African Fashion (FIMA), held in Niger, which simultaneously promotes the themes of "Peace, Culture and Development".
Susan Stein has accumulated over 30 years of experience in the fashion and retail industry in the United States of America, serving as Fashion and Public Relations Director for Saks Fifth Avenue in New York and Connecticut, and Director of the Personal Shopping Department of Bloomingdales in Los Angeles. Susan is a lecturer at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles and serves as the Fashion Editor of Palm Springs Life Magazine. She is also the Producer/Director of Fashion Week El Paseo in Palm Desert, California.
Dream Realized
Kicking off on November 5th, Island Fashion week plans to be a star studded affair under the Caribbean sun. Owen Bethel has realized his dream as Beautiful models, amazing designers, run way fashion shows, celebrities, and amazing after parties will turn the islands of the Bahamas into fashion central for four days. His true dream realized though is that through these efforts glitz and glamour will be a platform to improve our environment.
For additional information, visit the official Islands of the World Fashion Week web site.
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