Photos by Cameron Devon of Devon Advertising

Colorado Fashion Week launched its second annual event this past week. Taking place at the Seawell Grand Ballroom in the Denver Center for Performing Arts Center and the JW Marriott in Cherry Creek, the event was a perfect opportunity for student and emerging designers as well as locally known established designers. The collections ranged anywhere for three hand-crafted pieces to 20 or more items.

Produced by the JTA Group and Creative Director Justice Kwesi Kwarteng, Colorado Fashion Week is described as “existing to nurture, mentor, market, and present the next generation of fashion industry experts and professionals.” The foundation was also created as an opportunity to change per-conceived notions of fashion in Colorado, organize a professional fashion trade and marketing event, and finally create new jobs and elevate Denver’s potential as an emerging fashion capitol.

Each night of the four-part event had something very unique to offer. Emerson Windy, Manuel Molina and His Latin Jazz Band, and Postal Holiday each opened the evening with a special performance before the runway show. As lights dimmed and Justice announced the next great talent, the vibrant pink carpet provided the frame for their artwork.

Marissa Lundeen, emerging fashion designers, showed a collection of feminine cocktail dresses in brave colors of cobalt blue, coral, and pomegranate. The show-stopping of the collection was a V-neck cocktail dress with an accent geometrical checkered overlay.

A collection of inspired geometric zig zag motifs was presented by Pim Era. Each piece showed a thoughtful and dramatic way to wear bold striped pattern. The mixture of warm and cool tones would be a perfect additional to any stylish woman’s wardrobe.

The make-up show presented an industrial interpretation of make-up techniques. Looks included saran wrap, light weight burlap material draped across the body, and gold textured paint. The finale look was shown on a goddess-like saran wrapped warrior with expressive eyebrows and accents of gold flakes. The show included artistry from Aveda Academy, Jeager Make-up International, and CFW Make-Up Artistry Team.

Formal updos, messy fish tale braids, and flowing full length curls were amont the looks of the Masters of Hair. A special performance to showcase the artistry of talented stylists featured models in black glitter body paint with contrasting white wigs. Among the masters were XOXO Salon, Sanuk Salon, Aveda Academy, Three Little Birds, Pink & Black Beauty, and Stranz Salon.

Circles of Hands, a hand-made jewelry line, displayed everything from beaded necklaces, bracelets, arm bands, and anklets. All made by artisans in Uganda, each piece had such a special story and the cheerful beads only furthered the experience.

Hat shop, Goorin Bros, presented an array of men’s and women’s couture hats. Styles included modern fedoras, floppy “Hampden vacation” style hats, and Gatsbies for both men and women.

Headliner, Carlos Melendez, showcased his career launching presentation of gorgeous evening gowns. Silhouettes were focused on sweetheart necklines, tailored waists and full skirts. Melendez also showed a pair of vintage-inspired wide leg trousers in a bold black and white stripe with a matching cropped fur vest.

Rachel Hurst’s Fashion House of Rae Marie had many show stopping looks. Playing with unique print combinations, the collection was both youthful and elegant. From ready-to-wear, to cocktail attire, and several luxurious evening gowns, Rae Marie really strives for the needs of the everyday woman.

Creative Director and Founder of CFW, Justice K’s International Collection was undoubtably a catwalk to remember. Truly couture gowns with intricate details graced the runway as the headliner for Saturday’s final evening.

As a wonderful week to support the local talent in Colorado comes to an end, the inspiration to continue doing what you love remains strong throughout the hearts of the designers, fashion professionals, and supporters of art and design.