From art to film to fashion, Miami has become an important incubator for young talent. This was evident at the 2007 Fresh Faces in Fashion Show held at the Flamingo South Beach. Organized by Gen Art, an arts and entertainment organization dedicated to showcasing, promoting, and supporting the best emerging talent in fashion, film, music, and the visual arts, the event has launched the careers of famous designers in past years. The energy and excitement was palpable at the massive condo complex's pool courtyard as South Beach's young and fabulous gathered to observe the next crop of rising South Florida fashion designers.More than 1,000 attendees mingled by the Flamingo's bayside pools for an 8 p.m. pre-reception, as well as an accessory showcase. DJ Sage Molotov provided musical ambience as guests sipped Belvedere Vodka cocktails, sampled Bawls Guaranexx energy drinks, and tasted decadent mini cupcakes by Sticky Fingers Cupcakes. Event-goers also perused the many beauty and accessory tables arranged by the show's sponsors. The folks from Tweezerman beauty tools created mini vanity areas replete with mirrors and fresh-cut flowers, as well as couches and cushions emblazoned with their brand name. Product samples from both Tweezerman and Bioré skin cleanser were abundant, as were hair products from Lincoln Road salon Jean-Claude Biguine Paris. CuisineWorks staffed a Moët & Chandon lounge for V.I.P.s on a large terrace overlooking the bay and the event's runway. A Face Place photo booth sponsored by the Flamingo provided a fun outlet for guests' mini close-ups. Gift bags in the V.I.P. section included a black Flamingo South Beach cap, product samples, an issue of Ocean Drive magazine, and bottles of Glaceau Smartwater.
The fashion extravaganza began an hour later with a seated runway presentation hosted by style icon and star of television's 24, Marisol Nichols. The 80-foot runway, produced by Michael Designs Inc., was constructed over the Flamingo's sprawling pool and flanked by two separate seating sections. The Flamingo was given prime billing, with its name prominently displayed with Gen Art's at the rear of the runway. The runway display board also featured each of the seven designers' names during their portions of the show. One by one, models walked the runway to a rock soundtrack, while flashbulbs popped. Gift bags for those seated at the fashion show included the contents of the V.I.P. bags, as well as Kryolan Professional Makeup kits and KĂ©rastase hair products.
After the show there was more mingling, cocktailing, and networking as the models and designers ventured into the crowd to meet and greet event-goers. And as the night drew to a close, the heartiest nightlife hounds made their way to the after-party at newly redesigned and renovated club Cameo on Washington and 14th. Others were content to lounge on the wicker sofas provided by Room Service and enjoy the breeze coming off the bay.
—Sara Liss
The 80-foot runway, by Michael Designs, was constructed over the Flamingo pools.
Moët & Chandon was served at a bar covered in wheat grass in the V.I.P. lounge.
Sticky Fingers Cupcakes provided tastings of their delectable treats.
Chilled bottles of Glaceau Smartwater, one of the event's many beverage sponsors, were served.
CuisineWorks created the striking floral arrangements for the V.I.P. lounge tables.
Flat-screen monitors advertised the fashion show's sponsors, which included Acura, Belvedere Vodka, and the Flamingo South Beach.
Tweezerman set up vanity tables complete with mirrors, fresh-cut flowers, and product samples.
The Tweezerman area also included a lounge with custom-made cushions touting the brand.
A Face Place photo booth provided a fun outlet for guests' mini close-ups.
Six designers showed their collections in the fashion show.
