This fall, welcome change—and not just in the seasons! As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, it's a perfect time for transformation. Columbia’s rich history remains timeless, a theme brought to life in COLAFW's recent shoot, Main Character. In a tribute to our city's past, COLAFW style team members Larry Gaines and Keonna Myers found a unique way to mix past and present, illustrating men’s fashion across the ages. Inspired by the city, the shoot features a carefully curated wardrobe of pieces representing history, each with a fresh, modern spin on seemingly retro styles.

With Columbia’s Main Street as the backdrop, this photoshoot perfectly captures the changing seasons and styles. Each look embodies a warm fall palette, yet every outfit stands alone as its own “main character.”
From '70s-inspired bell bottoms to a '90s streetwear bucket hat, each ensemble has its own personality.

The keen eye for layering, the use of textures, and playful patterns highlight silhouettes from various decades. Notably, the kilt-inspired skirt paired with jeans offers a modern twist on a historical style. Each look tells its own story of fashion’s evolution, narrating the changes in history while embracing fresh streetwear aesthetics. This artistic display pays homage to the city by inviting people to “experience new life in old ways.”

Get ready to be enchanted into a world of creativity, wonder and imaginative style. The 2024 Columbia Fashion Week Met Gala theme has been announced, and it’s going to be a magical night to remember. A genius blend of traditional haute couture with a sprinkle of childlike wonder. It’s the perfect mesh of sophistication and playfulness.

So what should you add to the moodboard? With whimsical couture, it’s all about the details–project your imagination “out loud.” Don’t be afraid to mess around with the unexpected—mix materials, try out striking appliques, play with asymmetrical cuts. Accent with bows, jewels, and cheerful colors. Fall into the fairytale.

The COLAFW Met Gala is not only a time to celebrate fashion and its everlasting impact on our everyday lives, but to highlight the amazing talent of our city and beyond. Our takeover of the Columbia Museum of Art in 2024 is sure to whisk you off your feet.

Be sure to keep up with the latest on this year’s Met Gala on all Columbia Fashion Week platforms. And grab your tickets now–before the clock strikes 12!

​The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is back! After a hiatus, the iconic fashion show gave us all we needed and more: live entertainment, glamor and of course– FASHION! 

The show took a six-year hiatus after controversy surrounding the brand. However, Victoria’s Secret has realigned their brand and made their comeback this past Tuesday. Familiar faces on the runway included Gigi and Bella Hadid, Adriana Lima, and Barbara Palvin. The show also made sure to include women of all sizes, including model Ashley Graham. Not only that, veteran Angels—Kate Moss and Tyra Banks were spotted on the red carpet as well. Banks making her mark by closing the show.

Two major themes were recognized throughout which I like to call: angel and devil. One half of the looks consisted of beautiful pinks and reds and flowy pieces. The other half was darker, more grunge and bold. These two themes beautifully complemented each other.

And for my favorite part, I now present to you the top five looks of the night!

​This baby pink set with the ruffle shawl graced the runway as the fourth look of the night. The hair, the face, the look– tens across the board!

​Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur // Getty Images

​This fallen angel look was beautifully done with a black corset top and matching bottom. Simple yet seductive, beautiful and edgy all in one.

​Photo Credit: Dimitrios Kambouris // Getty Images

​My jaw dropped when I saw this. The feathered cape has a beautiful shape along with the pink color. The model’s short hair complements such a statement piece on the body. 

​Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur // Getty Images

​This dark fantasy look is stunning. The cut-out in the lace outfit gives the look dimension along with the gold and black glitter wings. The glamorous makeup seals the deal with this fabulous look.

​Photo Credit: Dimitrios Kambouris // Getty Images

​This is something completely different compared to the other looks of the night. The whimsical, ribbon shaped wings are so fun and make the simple red outfit pop. The monochromatic look appeals to the eye and stands out. 

​Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur // Getty Images

Another award show, another review! 

The American Music Awards recently celebrated their 50th ceremony by honoring some of the biggest voices in music. The carpet held stars of all generations and all genres of music. However, the fashion of the attendees had me questioning if their stylists were on a strike. As the fashion correspondent of Columbia Fashion Week, I guarantee you do not want to miss these looks. 

We’ll start with the top three looks of the night. These were the strongest and most cohesive looks.
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2. Kate Hudson
Was this something borrowed? The actress is giving shag rugs a run for their money. If a bath towel were a dress, this would definitely be it. The dress has a beautiful shape, but the texture is criminal. ​

In the realm of fashion, where aesthetics often reign supreme, there exists a powerful narrative to be told through the interplay of lines, color, and form. Convergence, a groundbreaking fashion shoot creatively directed by Columbia Fashion Week's Chief Marketing Officer, Darain Ginyard, delves into this narrative, exploring the intricate relationship between lines and identity. Through its monochromatic palette, meticulous styling, and the captivating presence of Corey Simmons, a ColaFW 2024 Elite Model, Convergence challenges traditional norms and celebrates the power of self-expression.

The Power of Lines
Lines, both straight and curved, serve as the backbone of Convergence. They guide the viewer's eye, drawing attention to specific details and creating a sense of movement and rhythm. In the photography, lines are used strategically to highlight the model's unique features, such as his strong jawline and piercing gaze. The lines in the clothing, from the sharp creases in the suit jacket to the delicate curves of the pearls, complement and enhance the overall aesthetic.

The Monochromatic Palette
The stark contrast of black and white in Convergence serves as a powerful tool for emphasizing the interplay of light and shadow. The monochromatic palette creates a sense of focus and intensity, allowing the viewer to fully appreciate the intricate details of the clothing and the model's expressive face. By eliminating the distractions of color, Convergence invites the viewer to delve deeper into the visual narrative.

The Importance of Styling
The styling of Convergence plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall aesthetic and narrative of the shoot. The carefully curated ensemble, featuring a crisp white suit from Jos. A Banks, paired with a simple undershirt and pearls, creates a timeless and elegant look. The juxtaposition of the classic suit with the modern accessories adds a touch of unexpected sophistication.

The styling for Convergence was expertly executed by ColaFW Fashion Officer Bella Belrose and ColaFw Stylists Larry Gaines. Their creative vision and attention to detail were instrumental in bringing the concept to life. Belrose and Gaines's ability to blend classic elements with modern sensibilities resulted in a cohesive and visually striking aesthetic.

Corey Simmons: A Model of Identity
The true star of Convergence is Corey Simmons, a ColaFW 2024 Elite Model whose captivating presence adds depth and intrigue to the visual narrative. Simmons embodies the spirit of the shoot, representing diversity, individuality, and the power of self-expression. His expressive gaze and commanding presence draw the viewer in, making him more than just a model but a symbol of the broader message that Convergence seeks to convey.

A Statement of Diversity and Inclusion
Convergence is more than just a fashion shoot; it's a statement. It challenges traditional norms and celebrates diversity, both in terms of race and gender. By featuring a model of color and showcasing a non-traditional menswear ensemble, Convergence sends a powerful message about the importance of inclusivity in the fashion industry. It's a reminder that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors.

The Intersection of Art and Fashion
Convergence is a testament to the power of fashion as a form of art. It's a visual exploration of lines, identity, and the human condition. Through its carefully crafted aesthetic and powerful narrative, Convergence invites the viewer to consider the deeper meaning behind the clothes they wear. It's a reminder that fashion is not just about appearances but also about self-expression and storytelling.
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Convergence is a groundbreaking fashion shoot that challenges traditional norms and celebrates the power of self-expression. Through its meticulous attention to detail, captivating imagery, and the powerful presence of Corey Simmons, Convergence is more than just a visual spectacle; it's a statement about diversity, inclusion, and the transformative power of fashion. It's a reminder that lines, both in the literal and metaphorical sense, can be used to create powerful narratives and shape our understanding of identity.

Fashion Week just wrapped, and let me tell you, the runways were a total explosion of creativity! From fierce to flirty, these designers delivered looks that had us shouting "YASSSS" from the rooftops. So, grab your virtual shades and get ready to dive into the hottest trends that absolutely slayed:

1. Color Chaos is the New Cool: Forget playing it safe! This season, it's all about embracing the rainbow. Christian Cowan and Diotima went wild with vibrant hues, from sunshine yellows to emerald greens. Basically, the brighter, the better!

2. Mix and Match Mania: This ain't your grandma's wardrobe. Designers are throwing out the rulebook, pairing form-fitting pieces with flowy skirts, or mixing lace with leather. It's a fashion party, and everyone's invited! (Think Kim Shui's edgy business blazers with lacy undergarments — fire!)

3. Ruffles with an Attitude: Ruffles are back, baby, but with a twist! Collina Strada showed us how to rock soft, whimsical ruffles for a quiet confidence vibe. Meanwhile, Diotima went full-on drama with dramatic, flowing ruffles that made a serious statement.

4. Barefaced Beauty: Makeup who? This season, many designers embraced a natural, barely-there look. Think glowing skin and minimal products (Coach and Collina Strada nailed this!). But fear not, makeup lovers, because...

5. Expressive Eyes Make a Splash: Diotima offered a refreshing contrast with bold, expressive makeup, proving that dramatic eyes can steal the show. Think bright shadows, sharp lines, and a whole lotta sass! ️

So there you have it, fashion fam! These are just a few of the killer trends that took New York Fashion Week by storm. With a mix of bold colors, wild combinations, and a celebration of individuality, this season was all about pushing boundaries and having FUN with fashion. Now get out there and rock your own unique style!
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