Fashion Week is full of models, but they’re not just walking in the shows, they’re attending parties and watching the runways as well! And this season holds a bit of excitement for Damaris Lewis, as she had her first taste of sitting in a fashion show!
ARISE is a great magazine out of Nigeria/London, and each season the magazine gives African designers the opportunity to show their fashions to the international fashion community. They’ve shown in New York for the past three seasons. Each season there are three or four different designers that showcase their designs. One show, three separate segments. It’s a great opportunity for the designers, the models, and Africa. Coming from an African dance background, I was very excited to attend this particular show—I’ve never attended a fashion show as a guest, only as a model.
For this show, designers Deola Sagoe, Clack Coffee, and Loin Cloth & Ashes presented their collections. I arrived with my friend Coco Rocha and went directly backstage to the hair and makeup area where we chatted with friends before the show. After catching up with everyone, we made our way to our seats. The music started, creating a mood that would be carried throughout the show. The lights went up, showcasing three models on the runway. The models proceeded down the runway displaying poise and grace. Each segment of the show had a different theme, color, and intensity. By the last segment, the audience had experienced an eclectic taste of African fashion and music. Coco even Tweeted “Get me this soundtrack”!
ARISE was not only inspiring, but it strengthened my love for the fashion world even more. If you are ever able to attend this show, do not miss the opportunity because it will be an experience you will never forget. And next season, you may even see me on the ARISE runway…
Until next time Modelinia,
Damaris
