I had the pleasure of first meeting Gino Velardi at a fashion show in early September where he told me that he specializes in beautifully made, custom cocktail dresses and evening gowns.  He stole my attention right then and there. Not to be dramatic, but let’s just say cocktail dresses and evening gowns are what make my heart beat.

Ever since that day I have been anxiously, and somewhat impatiently, waiting for his 2013 Fashion Show.

His first solo show in four years was held on Thursday, October 3 and surpassed all of my expectations. However, I wouldn’t expect anything less from the well-known designer who was named Denver’s Best Fashion Designer at the Denver Style Expo back in 2011.  His style is fearlessly sexy, using high-end and luxurious fabrics to create elegant looks.

I arrived at the EXDO Event Center with an entertaining entourage of women led by the fabulous Brandi Shigley. We walked through the entrance and landed in the middle of a photo shoot where a gorgeous model was wearing Gino’s impressive designs and posing with a car. DJ Rockstar Aaron was blasting music that got me excited to be walking into a “fashion show – turned party” type of event.  With that being said, I grabbed a cosmopolitan from the bar, munched on some delicious hors d’oeuvres from Vincenza’s Italian Restaurant and Bakery, and then made my way to our prime seating right next to the catwalk. The fashion show was delayed for 30 minutes, which did nothing else but elevate my anticipation.

The event began with a wave of fierce energy.  A retrospective of Gino Velardi’s past, recent and never seen before pieces owned the runway and demanded everyone’s attention from the very beginning. The big haired, edgy models bared a sexy amount of skin, with plunging necklines and open backs.

A-line coats, faux fur features, head-to-toe sequin dresses – I was in some sort of heaven.

I was at the edge of me seat, just as everyone around me was, gasping and awing over the several show-stopping outfits.

I left the fashion show inspired by the dramatic, yet wearable pieces.  It is no mistake why Gino has the elite reputation that he does.  His designs were beautifully displayed and flawlessly executed.

I wasn’t only inspired by the clothing, however, but more so inspired by Gino Velardi himself.  A few years ago Gino suffered from a stroke that left him unsure of his future, and just this year he was diagnosed with colon cancer.  These devastating hardships left him with an overwhelming appreciation for his work and he chose to beat the odds by diving headfirst back into fashion design.

Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards Velardi’s medical bills. To make a donation, email info@ginovelardi.com