Another fabulous Bellevue Fashion Week has come to a close and it was once again a week for the record books.
W Bellevue opened the week and hosted the exclusive kick-off party with cocktails, hors d’eouvres and a preview of the fall looks that would be seen on the runway later in the week.
The week closed out with a Meet & Greet with fashion designer, Christian Siriano at Civility and Unrest at the W Bellevue. Christian spoke to the small group of media and bloggers about his thoughts on Pacific Northwest fashion, what inspires him, working with celebrities, ageism in the industry, plus size models, what he has to deal with logistically each day, and gave others some useful tips on how to pursue their own careers in fashion. In regards to women’s fashion, I personally love how Christian embraces women of all ages and sizes and wants them to feel beautiful.
The week ended with The Collective Runway Show at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue, with 100% of the ticket sale proceeds benefiting the Special Olympics of Washington. Through programming in sports, health, education and community building, Special Olympics is changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics is able to remove barriers and stigmas that people with intellectual disabilities face, and to share with the community the gifts and talents they possess. Everyone who comes in touch with Special Olympics is impacted in a way that helps them strive to achieve their personal best.
Christian welcomed guests to the show and emphasized that he loves to show a world of culture and diversity on the runway so we can all celebrate women. I had a little moment as I was wearing one of Christian’s designs and not only did he take notice, but he sent someone from his staff to find me and another guest wearing one of his designs as he wanted a picture of us both!
Runway looks included pieces from Ted Baker, Eileen Fisher, Intermix, Tommy Bahama, MaxMara, Nordstrom, Armani Exchange, Kate Spade and the Independent Designer Runway Show winner, poppyseed!
