The fashion district lit up when 1,500 fashionistas gathered at the Moore Building not only to acquire the trendiest clothing, but also to discuss industry trends with the 45 cutting-edge designers who were on hand. Shop Miami, as the event was named, consisted of a four-hour shopping spree, split by a 9 PM fashion show that featured Wilhelmina models. This first-time event was hosted by Gen Art to promote the local design scene—all 45 designers were Miami-based—and introduce fashion lovers to the latest styles.
"The event worked out great: we had more sales than we were expecting, a record attendance, and the attendees had a lot of fun. Even the local designers that showed up were ecstatic with the turnout because of their resulting sales and the fact that some of them even got accounts with local boutique buyers," said Monica Glass, the regional manager of Gen Art.
The shopping spree took place throughout the building's three floors and recalled the days of the street bazaar, as people sauntered from one booth to the next, socializing among themselves and sipping Bailey's Shakes, which mixed the liquor with a lot of crushed ice to create a slushy drink for the over-21 crowd. For those who didn't want this icy liquor, Ciroc Vodka, Johnnie Walker, and Bailey's were all hosting other options at various open bars. The V.I.P. room elite even had the POP Champagne staff catering to their every thirst-quenching whim, while they lounged on black mid-century modern leather couches provided by Room Service.
Guests were also pampered with complimentary spa services from Aruj Salon & Spa and hairstyling by ECRU NY. Additionally, DJ Induce was on hand throughout the night to provide a casual blend of 80s tracks, old-school beats, and retro grooves, such as "Buffalo Stance" by Neneh Cherry and "I Can't Go For That (No Can Do)" by Hall & Oates.
The event's informal fashion show drew a lot of attention as it premiered the latest in women's wear, men's wear, swimwear, and accessories. It took place on a red-carpeted runway with a Gen Art- and Perrier-logoed backdrop on the building's first floor. Perrier's Bubbling Under award, given to the designer with the greatest fashion illustration, along with a $10,000 grant and the right to conceptualize their drawing, went to Zoe Hong.
The event raised more than $50,000 in sales, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Gen Art Foundation.
—Albert del Toral
Photos: Richard Patterson
The Gen Art logo branded portions of the Moore Building, such as this center column, for its first-ever Shop Miami event.
Shop Miami was a four-hour shopping spree where guests could buy the latest fashions from their choice of 45 local designers.
The fashion show took place on a red-carpeted set with a heavily logoed backdrop on the first floor of the Moore Building.
An informal fashion show premiered the coolest new women's wear, men's wear, swimwear, and accessories.
