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During the first weekend of November, Modelinia stole away to Grand Cayman for a quick tropical jaunt on the island so that we could attend the first ever Cayman Fashion Solstice, hosted by Selita Ebanks! A full three days of festivities kicked off on Thursday night with a welcome party, followed by an all white night at Osetra Bay, and culminated on Saturday with the main event, the Fashion Gala at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, featuring 10 different designers and a performance from IYAZ! ”I’m so excited, because this is our first annual!” said Selita. “We have models from all over the world, especially from the Caribbean, which I’m so happy about because I’m a Caymanian! I’m just so excited to host, celebrate, and bring the Caribbean together!” Gorgeous faces from New York including Kacie Schiffer, Alyssa Young, and Georgie Baddiel came down to lend their strutting power to the runway while experiencing some of the beauty of the Grand Cayman Islands.
Modelinia arrived just in time on Friday evening to throw on our best all white party dress, hop in the car, and head over to Osetra Bay, which was decorated in soft lighting. Within no time, guests filled the space and the DJ quickly had everyone on their feet and dancing. But the real testament to Selita’s hometown love was the outpouring of smiles and welcome home hugs she received. Towards the end of the evening, Kanye West’s Runaway dominated the loudspeaker and Selita took her well deserved spot in the middle of the dance floor.
We chatted with Alyssa and Kacie who were not only thrilled to be a part of the runway event, but also excited to have the chance to hang out in Cayman. ”We got here Thursday and went straight to the beach,” said Alyssa. “Clear waters, I mean you couldn’t ask for more,” added Kacie. Between their fittings and the weekend’s events, the girls had the chance to enjoy a few of Cayman’s attractions: Stingray City, Rum Point, 7 Mile Beach, and water sports. “We talked one of the jet sky guys into letting us have a free 5 minute ride!” said Alyssa.
While the white party lasted well into the night, everyone was looking forward to the main event, and come Saturday evening, designers, models, and guests filled the Ritz Carlton’s ballroom space for a massive runway show. Selita took her place as emcee for the runway spectacular, expertly introducing each and every designer while hyping up the crowd and supporting her fellow models. Designers including Korto Momolu from Project Runway, Gabz + Gabz, and Indashio sent their creation down the runway, drawing approval from the well-heeled crowd of Caymanians and expats, who clearly were more than appreciative for a fashion moment on their island.
Though she told Modelinia earlier in the weekend that she wouldn’t be walking down that runway, Selita surprised everyone and gave her fans an extra special finale walk, in preparation for this year’s Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show! Clearly the crowd was beyond pleased, as the applause that Selita received for her strut was more than overwhelming. With Selita’s assistance and the outpouring of approval from the fashion fans on the island, hopefully Cayman Fashion Solstice will become a regular event!
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