Philadelphia’s fashion scene continues to blossom over the years, with recognition from the mayor and two winners from Bravo’s hit fashion reality competition “Project Runway.” This past season, we celebrated the inaugural class of designers-in-residence at Philadelphia Fashion Incubator, as well as the eleventh season of Philadelphia Fashion Week presented by FBH The Agency.
In the heart of Center City at Macy’s, the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator had been housing some of the best up-and-coming designers this year: Melissa Choi & Pia Panaligan of Senpai + Kohai; Annina King of Granaté Prêt; Devin Anne Pauley of Morgia Bridal; Leah Delfiner of Pretty Pretty Rebel; and Trisha Will. We have been seeing the imaginative works of these designers around the city a lot lately, and are excited to find out what they’ll be doing, now their residency season is completed.
We caught up with these ladies at The Transfer Station in Manayunk as they presented a special fashion showcase alongside international jewelry designers. It was a great send-off for a class leading the way to a bright future of fashion in Philadelphia. The new designers-in-residence for 2014 are: Gabrielle Mandel of Supra Endura, Jovan O’Connor, Rebeca Imperiano, Sherrill Mosee of MinkeeBlue, Terese Brown of Terese Sydonna, and Victoria Wright. We can’t wait to see how they progress!
Philadelphia Fashion Week kicked off with an energetic opening party at Sugar House Casino on February 18th. As always, a fashionable crowd started off the week dressed to the nines. The following night was the highly anticipated menswear runway show at the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia. The swanky atmosphere was highly appropriate as male models showed off how proper men should dress. Our favorite ensembles were Clarenz Couture’s sharp suits, which served as the finale of the show.
Of course, Friday night’s featured star was Dom Streater, fresh off of her “Project Runway” win. She debuted a line of feminine frocks in playful prints. Another one of our favorites was the Bishme Cromartie collection, with their sharp, structured outfits in neutral leathers.
The final night of Philadelphia Fashion Week featured couture designers. The edgy and avant garde designs from Autumnlin Atelier had been a favorite of ours – since we saw her win as RAW Artist of the Year for Fashion Design in 2012, through to the current season of “Styled to Rock” on Bravo with judges Rihanna, Pharrell, and supermodel Erin Wasson.
The fashion continues this season, with Main Line Fashion Week going on now! Visit their website for information on their events.
