MADE IN AFRICA By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger Photos:George Whylie, Video: Maxine Nolan
Mercedes-Benz Spring 2012 Fashion Week ended magnificently with a bang. Elegance overtook the stage as the final show of the season was put on by ARISE Magazine at the historical Avery Fisher Hall in Lincoln Center on September 15th, 2011.
The theme of the show was appropriately named ‘Made in Africa’ with a variety of Spring 2012 collections shown by seven African designers: Bunmi Koko, Jewel by Lisa, Asibelua, Larre Da Silva, La Kluk CGDT, Pierre-Antoine Vetterello and Tsemaye Biniti. One of the lovely and talented young artists to wow the crowds was Leona Lewis who gave a powerful rendition of some of her hits including an acoustic cover of “Grenade” by Bruno Mars.
Celebrities were out in full force including June Ambrose, ‘America’s Next Top Model’ judge J Alexander, Omarion, ‘The A-List New York’ star Nyasha and Terry Crews of BET’s “The Family Crews”.
In addition to spotlighting gorgeous fashions, ARISE Magazine wanted to raise awareness and funds in support of Africa’s ongoing clean water initiative.
The stage was set in the form of an upside down A to signify Arise. The collections ranged from simple sheaths to intricate formal gowns of sheer silk and sparkling sequins.
Fitted floral dresses were professionally perfect. One of the most interesting outfits of the evening was the ravishing bluish/purplish strapless floor length gown with what looked like a 3D bodice.
A model sauntered down the runway in an austere white long-sleeved gown adorned with lavish feathers on the bottom.
Flowing fabric in a tie-dye pattern was draped tastefully and worn majestically by a model.
A rainbow of orange, yellow, green and brown sequins bounced sparkles across the room as the model graced the stage.
The clothes were for every occasion from the beach to the office to the ballroom.
Through Mercedes-Benz Spring 2012 Fashion Week, these gifted designers were given the opportunity to showcase their fashions on a worldwide platform.
Once the show came to a close, the big after-party took place at the luxurious Essex House overlooking Central Park with some of the designers taking part in the celebration. Drinks and hors d’oeuvres were plentiful and the guest D.J. filled the dance floor with his hot sounds. The surprise of the evening was when Grammy award-winning R&B singer and songwriter, R. Kelly, enter the stage and sang a variety of his all-time great hits. He had the partygoers swooning and they even joined in on a few well-known songs.
The evening continued way past the midnight bewitching hour. The crowd was still full of energy.
It can be agreed that the close of Mercedes-Benz Spring 2012 Fashion Week will not soon be forgotten.
Comments are closed.