Each year, Charlotte’s fashion scene gives us something new and unexpected. This year we were introduced to Front Row Charlotte- an organization founded by Joey Hewell, Erica Hanks and Effie Loukas that “aims to bring a new and fresh approach of runway events to the community.” This fashion entity is truly the first of its kind in the Charlotte market; Front Row Charlotte offers attendees the opportunity to buy clothes and accessories previewed on the runway before they hit the shelves for the new season. Boutiques that participated in the event were KK Bloom, Chezelle, Olive (online boutique), Monkee’s of Lake Norman and Lotus, not to mention jewelry designers Mere Jewelry and Town and Reese.
From the hippie chic, feminine silhouettes of KK Bloom to the bold patterns and mixed fabrics of Chezelle- Front Row Charlotte hosted an event for a variety of fashion connoisseurs. Olive boutique offered a strong use of color blocking, perfect hemlines and great tailoring, while Monkee’s of Lake Norman introduced many nautical themed garments in which beach goers would fall head over heels in love. Lotus boutique quietly whisked us away with loads of texture, use of appliqué and a host of spring time pastels.
As the final model left the catwalk and the co-founders were introduced, the real joy came from the large donation given to Safe Alliance- a nonprofit organization that seeks to rebuild the lives of women and children who have been victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Hanks and the Safe Alliance representative shared a tearful moment when recalling their first meeting at one of the shelters. “I remember thinking that there was something more that could be done to help these women and children and Front Row Charlotte would be the ones to do it,” said Hanks.
At the conclusion of the runway show, all of the vendors set up booths and tables that showcased their garments, jewelry and accessories for patrons to shop. Along with hosting the fashion event in their space, Triple C Brewing Company also created a special “Front Row Ale” while Roots Farm Food truck assembled hors d’oeuvres and small portions for guests to sample. Strangers, acquaintances and friends all joined in to help create an eclectic shopping experience in an unpretentious, fashion-infused atmosphere.
Front Row Charlotte just may be the organization to highlight Charlotte’s visibility in the fashion world. We’re looking forward to sitting Front Row 2014!
-Gregory Lawrence, Professional Makeup Artist, Freelance Journalist
