Videos: 2011 Premier’s Fashion Design Expo

November 6, 2011

“Catwalk” was the name of the event. And the glitz and glamour of the catwalk was certainly in evidence at the Bacardi Building last night [Nov. 5] when the Premier’s Fashion Designer Expo showcased the creations of more than a dozen Bermudian artists and designers.

Designs were displayed in the Bacardi Building’s entrance area for attendees to view while the fashion show was moved from an intended tented area outside to indoors because of the inclement weather.

The show started off with a welcome address from Stewart Gurr, managing director of the Bacardi Bermuda office, and radio commentator Sherri Simmons provided the commentary.

Premier’s Fashion Designer Expo Part One

The Premier spoke at the end, thanking everyone for coming as did organiser Dean Parris.

Designers ranged from novices to well-established names. Those participating were: Amethyst, Ashley Aitken, Dana Cooper, Rene Hill, Tabitha Hollis, Nicole Iris, Manuel Palacio, Edith Rookes, Calix Socrates Smith, Anthony Dean Williams, Sharon Wilson, Paul Young, Ami Zanders.

The event — which drew a crowd numbering in the hundreds — was attended by one of America’s premiere fashion and beauty journalists, Cheryl Ann Wadlington, who also spoke at the conclusion of last night’s event.

Premier’s Fashion Designer Expo Part Two

Ms Wadlington is a leading consultant in the field of personal growth. As an accomplished writer, popular television personality and sought-after motivational speaker, she has reached millions of people with her advice and perspective.

The co-author and contributing editor of “SoulStyle: Black Women Redefining the Color of Fashion” she is an accredited member of the fashion press corps for New York City’s annual “Mercedes Benz Fashion” industry festivities.

She has also served as a contributing writer to “Essence”, “Savoy”, “Black Enterprise”, “Heart & Soul”, “BET Weekend” among other American and international publications. Ms Wadlington is also fashion and beauty editor for “BridesNoir” magazine.

“Welcome to a fabulous star-studded evening showcasing some of Bermuda’s top designers,” said the Premier in introductory remarks included in the show’s programme.

Premier’s Fashion Designer Expo Part Three

“They and you are the stars. We celebrate them and we commend you for investing the time to view our local talent.

“Fashion mirrors the community and our social conditions. Our sense of chic often depends on how we feel — about ourselves, our finances, our country.

“Fashion is about constant change: it reflects a designer’s view on what is happening in their community reflective of the people. Style reflects substance. Sit back, enjoy, support.”

Minister of Community Development Michael Weeks said he was proud to be taking part in an event which highlighted Bermuda’s vibrant fashion industry.

“Fashion and haute couture has become an art form that many young Bermudians are pursuing and making a name for themselves in both locally and internationally.

“The Government wishes to be in the forefront of efforts to encourage local talent and invite students to pursue careers in fashion and provide a venue for our local designers and artists to exhibit their dazzling creations.”

Mr. Weeks said at a time when locals are being encouraged to “Buy Bermuda”, he encouraged everyone to buy Bermudian fashion designs.

Premier’s Fashion Designer Expo Part Four

Minister of Business Development & Tourism Wayne Furbert said he was delighted to offer his best wishes to organisers and participants in the designer expo.

“I believe there is no better expression than creative expression,” he said.

“And this event is a very significant occasion for all of us because we have an opportunity, as Bermudians, to come together in support of our local artists and designers and in doing so we are supporting a worthwhile cause.

“The artists and designers on display at this event represent some of the best of our homegrown talent and we should do all that we can to support and preserve all forms of local arts for the benefit of Bermuda’s next generation.”

Premier’s Fashion Designer Expo Part Five

Prior to the show, the Premier said she was anxious to see Bermudians back to work in all spheres — and pointed out the island’s fashion designers are too often overlooked by their countrymen.

“They have to go abroad to gain respect and we must reverse that trend,” said Ms Cox. “Now is the time for us to more actively pull together. Over the last few months, I met with the local designers to canvass their views and some ideas have been most helpful.

“Mr. Dean Parris of Parris and Company, who is well known in Bermuda for his expertise as an event manager was instrumental in staging the Corporation of Hamilton’s mega fashion show which drew thousands of spectators and spectacularly showcased local retail stores.”

Premier’s Fashion Designer Expo Part Six

Ms Cox said she shared her vision of a world class fashion event for Bermuda with Mr. Parris, who immediately saw the value of it.

“And, in fine style, he agreed to create a wonderful Bermuda-based production,” said the Premier. “Mr. Parris, who has a passion and sees a long future for the arts in Bermuda, has kindly waived all his fees to better assist the designers.

“Bacardi graciously provided their glamorous world headquarters as the backdrop for this exquisite fashion event that is sure to be an evening beyond compare.”

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  1. Necromonger says:

    Duh…
    what was the point of your post @slave2design..??