Queens, NY: It was exciting affair for the 1,500 plus Caribbean fashion lovers who turned out for the annual Irie Fashion Rave (IFR) which was recently held at the new Resort World Casino In Queens, New York.
This year’s ‘Rave’ started with a bang and ended on the same high note. The event was a posh affair showcasing some of the most talented Caribbean designers and hairstylists in the Diaspora including D’Marsh Couture, Riddim Driven, Hope Wade, Meeenesshouz Designs, Left Lane, MPerry Collection, Foreign Labor, MG Couture, Jerri Reid, Gamakacke Black Tantrik Swimwear (out of JA), Elegance by Aneessa; Hair Segments by Hair Definition and Ronald Calder. Organizers were able to raise the bar of professionalism in their presentation and content.
Designers utilized a variety of textures and colors and showed sensibility in their version of ready to wear outfits, while others showed sophisticated thinking in their couture collection. Music used by the designers were quite appropriate for the occasion and with the assistance of international male model Oraine Barrett, super model Rocky Heslop and other New York area models, the designers unveiled exciting pieces from their 2013 collection.
IFR co-producer Syn Dawkins and her team have built a viable industry in the NY Caribbean Diaspora which in the past had limited opportunities for designers. The event is now warmly accepted and embraced by industry insiders, models and designers who are now grateful for the opportunity to showcase their talent to an appreciative fan base that has grown leaps and bounds in just seven short years.
“We have come a very long way in a very short time” said an elated Dawkins, moments after the curtain fell on the event. Fighting back tears of joy, she thanked the designers, the models and her support staff, who worked extremely hard behind the scenes to ensure the show was flawless.
Bobby Clarke, founder and CEO of Irie Jam radio and co-producer of IFR said, “I am extremely happy how the night unfolded. Everyone worked hard to create a totally exciting show for our patrons. I must thank the Resort World Casino for hosting us this year. I think this new partnership that we have forged paid dividends in a big way as we now have a classy, upscale venue that patrons absolutely loved.”
Reality TV star Yandy Smith, from VH1’s Love & Hip-hop, who served as celebrity host was fabulous. So too were Irie Jam djs Dub Master, DJ Roy and Felicia Loud, who were warmly embraced by fans during their time on stage. However the real star of the night was radio host Miss Kitty from Jamaica who just outdid herself with her humor, style, flair and class. She has grown in her role as host for the second year and patrons showed their love for her throughout the night.
Dancehall hotshot Ding Dong and new artist Kranium both delivered excellent performances. In celebration of Irie Jam Radio’s 20th anniversary, veteran broadcaster Ken Williams and New York area record producer Philip Smart were both honored. TV producer Eion Saunders was honored posthumously for his contribution to media in the Diaspora and was the recipient of a proclamation from the Hon Yvette Clarke. Rocky Heslop accepted in his honor.
