10th annual Miami Fashion Week dazzles April 9-13 at Wynwood Pavilion in Miami

L ong before the cruise collection craze, Miami had its own ideas about warm-weather ready-to-wear. While we’ll never know what makes people think it’s okay to wear Swarovski-crystal jumpsuits, it’s the mix of trend-seeking Europeans and Latin Americans that defi ne modern Miami fashion.

Yes, it’s a far cry from the senior citizens that made brightly colored sequins look so darn good, but in this post-Art Deco world, anything goes. Hot sunny skies mean that a white palette is always in vogue. Light colors, versatile fabrics and fl owy designs ensure that any outfi t can go from possible beachwear to casual chic. And in Miami, that versatility coupled with a parade of eccentric personalities make it a fashion city to watch, especially because there’s no telling what you’ll see next. Beth Sobol, president and founder of Miami Fashion Week, recognized the city’s unique cultural climate when she decided to launch the event in 1999. “The world’s most beautiful people, international jet setters and spectacular location make Miami a natural host for a trendsetting international fashion week,” she said. “Miami is where leaders in fashion and entertainment collide and new trends are born.” Ten years later, it’s become the largest Hispanic and international fashion affair in the country. Designers from Latin America, Asia, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and the Caribbean all share the runway, showing eveningwear, prêt-a-porter, menswear and accessory collections. There’s a focus on up-and-coming designers, as well as stalwart favorites like Carolina Herrera and Oscar de la Renta. Last year’s event drew 10,000 attendees, 65% of whom were Latin American. Favorite designers included Miami’s own Julian Chang, Frivole and Nicolas Felizola. Chang has designed dresses for Britney Spears and Paris Hilton; Frivole has designed couture for Claudia Schiffer; and Felizola is a favorite of Hollywood celebs like Maria Conchita Alonso. The week culminates with the star-studded Miami Moda & Music Awards where the standouts are awarded. Not too bad for a city best known for fl ip-fl ops, sunglasses and bling.

Miami SpiceBY ELLIOT KOTLYAR

NICOLAS FELIZOLA

NICOLAS FELIZOLA

JULIAN CHANG

FRIVOLE