Although we are closer to Milan, Indiana than Milan, Italy and Paris, Kentucky is much nearer than Paris, France, Cincinnati has a place on the map for high fashion. After months of intense planning, a group of four entrepreneurs have launched Cincinnati’s first ever fashion week in order to strengthen the link between Cincinnati and the world of fashion. This original team of four began the concept of Cincinnati Fashion Week in a coffee house last November.

In just a matter of months, the planning team rapidly grew. Aided by over 200 volunteers and 13 sponsors, Cincinnati Fashion Week provided a robust week of cultural events. Starting with the kick-off, “Spring Into Fashion” event on April 19th, featuring select Cincinnati retailers, and the April 20th designer meet and greet VIP Appreciation Party event, Cincinnati Fashion week culminated with a sold out catwalk event on April 23, 2010 held at the Cincinnati Hyatt.

With over 2000 local and international attendees, the audience was introduced to a stunning array of stimulating fashion design. Many of the designers had local roots or have affiliations with the University of Cincinnati’s DAAP (Design, Art, Architecture, Planning) Fashion Design program.  This finale event evidenced the deep cultural and artistic roots found right in our own backyard.

The show highlighted fashion looks from 12 experienced designers. Looks included Trash Biscuit’s “rockstar zombie” inspired designs, New York menswear designer Arbitrage featuring local designer, Josh Stevens and swimsuit designs by Cala Ossidiana. The show’s finale featured fashion looks created by David Meister, an esteemed local American designer and alumnus of UC's DAAP programn whose designs have been worn by celebrities such as Alicia Keys, Fergie, Diane Lane, Tina Fey, Elizabeth Hurley and Sharon Stone. Mr. Meister is known for his body conscious, yet sophisticated designs. In 1998, he premiered his first fall line in a collection of modern evening wear. In June 2010, he will premier his luxe Bridal Collection that will feature classic silhouettes with a modern sensibility.

This fashion debut event not only celebrated the wealth of fashion inspiration and experience we have in Cincinnati, but it also helped give back to the community. The event partnered with Dress for Success, Kenzie’s Closet and Keeping Cincinnati Beautiful to help give back to our local community.  The first Cincinnati Fashion Week was a clear success. It is hoped that this inaugural event marks the beginning of a very long tradition.

Check out some of my top picks for Spring/Summer 2010 from Cincinnati Fashion Week

Alexis’ Favorite Looks from Cincinnati Fashion Week

#1 Look: David Meister’s cocktail Dress
This is a perfect evening look. The one shoulder, body conscious silhouette is sophisticated yet edgy. The way in which it combines textures and plays off the light adds an unexpected dimension to the look.
 

Photography by Thadd Fiala.
www.thaddandmilan.blogspot.com/

David Meister
http://www.cincinnatifashionweek.com/

Look #2: Laura Dawson’s casual, yet stylish design is something that can be imported directly from the runway to your closet! Her pop of optimistic and lively color is right on trend for Spring/Summer 2010. Dawson’s collection is playful, yet timeless. She also uses sustainable materials, organic sources, fair trade and tree-focused carbon offset programs for her collection.
 

Photography by Thadd Fiala. www.thaddandmilan.blogspot.com/

Designer: Laura Dawson
http://www.cincinnatifashionweek.com/

Look #3: Amy Longo, known in the industry as the “Glitter Queen” has created a collection centering on her obsession with shiny fabric and Swarvoski crystals. The design featured here is perfect for Spring/Summer 2010. It is feminine and speaks to the spring trend of ruffles! Ruffles can be a great asset for your wardrobe and can range from an everyday, yet sophisticated look to the edgier and funkier ruffle accents of Amy Longo
 

Photography by Thadd Fiala. www.thaddandmilan.blogspot.com/

Designer: Amy Longo
http://www.cincinnatifashionweek.com/

Look #4: Arbitrage presented a great look for men. Who wouldn’t want to be able to wear a hoodie inspired dress shirt rather than the plain old oxford shirt?
 

Photography by Thadd Fiala. www.thaddandmilan.blogspot.com/

Designer: Arbitrage
http://www.cincinnatifashionweek.com/