Confessions of a Reluctant Fashionista - Discovering the Passion in Orlando's Fashion

I must admit, the humble roots of my fashion journey started as a kid in Tampa playing dress-up with my dog—a black poodle named Pepe who totally rocked a tiny leather jacket and sunglasses. I survived the fashion trends of late 80s and early 90s - in an era of denim overalls, butterfly clips, and jelly shoes, but I wasn’t super-inspired by fashion until I visited Paris and Milan. And then still not fully until about eight years ago, when Terry Olson (Orange County's long time Chief Arts Instigator), asked me to co-create and curate the FusionFest Fashion Experience (a cultural and community-driven fashion show, part of the Orlando's annual FusionFest), that I truly developed a deeper understanding of the cultural role fashion plays in shaping cultures.

The FusionFest Fashion runway features original designers competing for top prize as well as the "Heritage Showcase" which brings together diverse cultures to showcase cultural clothing from historical to current. Fashion is just part of FusionFest. Now, in our eighth year as Orlando’s Thanksgiving weekend tradition, FusionFest is a vibrant, a free, two-day, festival that draws people from more than 110 different cultures to experience music, dance, food, visual arts, spoken word, games and interactive activities. Each year we welcome over 20,000 people to Seneff Plaza at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Art. At FusionFest "we are all for each other" - showing the world that people of different cultures and lifestyles can live together on a basis of love and respect.

Fashion isn't just about the clothes we wear; it's a way we show who we are and what we care about. Our style choices tell stories about our backgrounds, beliefs, and personalities, letting us connect with others who share our tastes. From choosing clothes made from sustainable materials to picking that "just right" outfit that boosts our confidence and help us feel more comfortable in our own skin. Fashion is a fun and powerful tool for expressing ourselves and building community.

I learned from the many cultures represented at FusionFest that fashion has always been a way to honor rights of passage. We showcased traditional attire worn during significant life events things like wedding gowns, army uniforms, dance costumes, rights of passage ceremonies, and so much more - honoring heritage and conveying respect. These clothing choices play a key role in marking important life events and connecting us to our cultural roots.

You can’t be part of Orlando’s fashion scene for too long without hearing about Orlando International Fashion Week (OIFW) and the incredible work of the brother-sister creative team of Rob and Jess Henlon, along with their stylish team—including Star Dalton, who has supported FusionFest Fashion from the very beginning. So when they asked me to join the board of Orlando International Fashion Week, alongside some of the most dynamic leaders in Orlando’s fashion scene, of course, it was a "hell yes". As part of this team, I am thrilled to help announce the 2025 Orlando Fashion Week!

Orlando International Fashion Week: A Must-Attend Event

Orlando International Fashion Week (OIFW), a 501(c)(3) organization, is gearing up for one of its most exciting events yet! On June 8, 2025, the prestigious Winter Park Events Center will host two exclusive fashion shows at 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM, giving fashion lovers the chance to witness the latest collections from established designers, emerging talent, and the future visionaries of the industry.

As someone deeply passionate about fostering artistic expression, I couldn’t be more excited to be part of an organization dedicated to elevating fashion in Orlando. This event isn’t just about breathtaking runway moments—it’s about building a community where designers, boutiques, and brands can connect, thrive, and inspire.

Event Highlights

• Date: June 8, 2025
• Location: Winter Park Events Center, Winter Park, FL
• Fashion Shows: Two shows at 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM
• Tickets: Early Bird tickets are now available!

Guests can choose to attend one show or immerse themselves in both, experiencing a full day of high-fashion excitement. Expect an unforgettable showcase of cutting-edge designs, creative performances, and a dazzling display of style and glamour.

Get Involved

OIFW is now accepting registrations for fashion designers, brands, boutiques, vendors, and sponsors. If you're looking for a premier platform to showcase your work and connect with industry professionals, this is the place to be.

Secure your Early Bird tickets today and be part of the fashion-forward event of the year!

For more details on participation and ticket purchases, visit www.oifw.org.

The Future of Fashion in Orlando

As a newly appointed board member, my goal is to help elevate Orlando’s fashion industry, ensuring it continues to grow as a creative and dynamic hub. OIFW is more than just an event—it’s a movement that celebrates innovation, diversity, and artistry. I’m honored to be part of this journey and can’t wait to see the magic unfold on June 8th!

Stay tuned for more updates, and I hope to see you there!