Last weekend, exotically-dressed fashionistas, young, hip bloggers and refined men and women dressed in all black filled the City Hall Amphitheater in preparation to experience one of the best weekends of the year—Denver Fashion Weekend (DFW.) Hosted by 303 Magazine, DFW was a total of four days long and hosted hundreds of people looking to see the newest trends. The Clarion was lucky enough to attend both the Non-Traditional Model Night and the Local and Nation Fashion Night, and needless to say, the fashion displayed was undoubtedly impressive.
Starting off on the first night, non-traditional models ranging from plus-sized to tattooed showed off the fashions of Inspyre Boutique and AnnaFesta, two local Denver shops. Inspyre Boutique offered classic takes on flowing shirts and nature-inspired dresses. AnnaFesta exhibited classy wear, presented by plus-sized models. The best part of AnnaFesta’s collection was the dresses—floor length and emanating maturity, they would make anyone feel like royalty. It was refreshing to see all body types and ages represented on the runway, and while some stores seem to limit options for plus-size patrons, AnnaFesta proves good fashion and being plus-sized aren’t mutually exclusive. Fashion styled by Charlie Price was modeled by tattooed men and women—particular designs or brands weren’t featured, but since many tattooed models are not featured in major magazine fashions, it was important to represent this community of people.
While only two brands participated in the opening night, plenty of other activities were available to keep the fun going. DFW featured a red carpet walk-up for its attendees, an open bar and even a DJ spinning fresh tracks to keep energy up.
On Saturday night, works from both local and national designers hit the runway in a flurry of slinky dresses, gothic colors and some disco-inspired sparkles. A standout of the night was the brand Twisted Liar conceived by designer Nicklaus Jones. This was the brand’s first time presenting in Denver, and the clothing line hit the ball out of the park. Characterized by strong architectural pieces and eclectic patterns, Twisted Liar displayed obviously well-made clothes that exuded confidence and a sense of power.
Jiberish, a local boutique, also came out on top—the street-style brand is made for the urban 20-something, one who isn’t afraid to be wild and look cool while doing it. Think colorful hoodies and snapbacks embellished with crowns, and you get hip-hop inspired Jiberish.
Gino Velardi was another stand out—the designer from Denver showed off a collection inspired by the disco rage of the ‘70s. Dresses dripping in silver were reminiscent of disco balls, but the clothing was immensely more fashionable than some of the questionable styles from this era. Gino Velardi implemented disco elements just subtly enough to walk the line between outlandish and refined.
Saturday also offered styles from Ily Iley, Steadbrook, fab’rik, Imprints by Whorl and Ghurka.
Overall, DFW Fall 2015 was one to remember. As Denver makes a rise into the fashion world, expect the event to grow each year. DFW takes place in both the spring and the fall, so you won’t have to wait a full year to see the magic happen—simply wait a few months and keep updated on the 303 Magazine Facebook page for spring fashion. Exact dates aren’t available, but expect the event to run in either April or May, and don’t fret if you don’t have a name in the fashion world—anyone can go, just buy a ticket before it sells out.
