When I heard about Birmingham Fashion Week (BFW) I have to admit I wasn’t quite sure what to think… I mean could my hometown really pull off such a daunting task?? After having the pleasure of attending the prestigious New York Fashion Week, and then more recently attending the impressive Charleston Fashion Week, I was curious to see what BFW was all about!
Read on for my review of Birmingham Fashion Week…
The first BFW took place at the historic Rucker Place, beneath a Bryant Park-esque tent. With over 50 models selected from across the state, 6 University of Alabama Fashion Design Students, and 2 nationally-known designers, the BFW attendees were buzzing with anticipation!
And the night began with the University of Alabama Fashion Design Students…
Katherine Staub showcased her sophisticated collection, reminiscent of the 1930’s, with a touch of utility. Model, Leah Furman (model on the left) later won the Emerging Model contest! Leah will be the face of next year’s Birmingham Fashion Week!
Kathryn Marr exhibited feminine dresses, blouses, and trousers. A well designed collection for the ‘Southern Lady’.
Lindsay Owens showcased one of the most ‘on trend’ colors this season…a color that always adds some pop to your wardrobe: chartreuse!
Winner of the Emerging Designer Competition, William Bradley Parnell showcased a collection that reminded me of the avant garde designs of the Scandinavian states. I especially loved his men’s wear!
Jonathan Croy, the perfect ‘Scandinavian’ model to sport William’s looks.
Brittany Blair showed a few feminine frocks that were Gossip Girl worthy. The back of this dress was my favorite from her collection.
Next, some dapper looks from Shaia’s in Homewood…as reviewed by Southern Homme, Donnell Cole…
This first look jumped off Shaia’s spotlight in the fashion show. This blazer is awesome, and is a great example of ‘preppy with a twist’ — Individuality, but with a conservative, yet preppy feel.
This suit is a must have, and can be worn from March to August; that’s only if you’re worried about the seasons. The dress shirt and pocket square are great for dinner or even the office. This was one of my favorite looks.
A great look for the upcoming Derby and even for polo matches. The accessories gave this outfit amazing texture and color, and are still functional enough to be worn separately. This look can be worn by most age groups. Thumbs up!
This was my favorite look featured by Shaia’s. The burgundy knit tie paired with the gray suit gave it a modern, yet traditional look.
This model rocked the runway once he showcased and removed the white, floor length Donna Karan trench. A comfortable look with very functional kicks.
***All pieces can be found at Shaia’s in downtown Homewood. ***
Lauren Leonard showcased her internationally recognized Leona collection next…
The Leona Collection is comprised of pieces to make up the perfect ‘Southern girl wardrobe’. Colorful and airy blouse, check! Statement shorts for a summer party, check! Nautical-inspired pieces, check!
The designer Lauren Leonard taking a bow..
And onto the bridal segment of BFW! They treated us to cake bites from Olexa’s in Mountain Brook Village. Cheers to that! 
Lastly, bridal designer Heidi Elnora took over the runway with her feminine, flirty, and often over the top gowns!
The memorable Katie Ford strutted down the runway in one of Heidi’s tulle confections..
Gorgeous bodice!! LOVE the embellished belt!
Tres chic et vintage…j’adore the lace overlay!
My personal favorite…effortlessly chic with the pockets, and billowy skirt paired with lace top..uhhhh I want….AND don’t forget the fabulous hair! How great with the twigs, flowers, and greenery?!
And the winner is….William Bradley Parnell!! Bridal designer, Heidi Elnora presents William with the emerging designer title!
C’est fini!! The first Birmingham Fashion Week raised $17,000 for Camp Smile-A-Mile AND $5000 for the tornado victims. I say that alone was a success! But truly, they trumped my expectations of BFW…the production level of the show was terrific! Professional, sophisticated, and definitely on the right track to something bigger, better, and statement-making in Birmingham!
