A Great Day in Harlem 2012 Fashion Fusion Showcase Designer Sofistafunk (video)

It was certainly A Great Day in Harlem as the tri-state area premiere fashion committee – the Harlem Fashion Initiative – descended on Grant’s Tomb for the HARLEM WEEK 2012 Fashion Fusion Showcase.  As part of HARLEM WEEK’s A Great Day in Harlem festival, some of the freshest faces in the tri-state area paraded around the plaza area of Grant’s Tomb displaying some of the hottest fashions and accessories by a variety of cutting-edge designers.

Actor Grizz Chapman, star of NBC’s 30 Rock, and on air personality Shaila, from 107.5 WBLS-FM, hosted the vibrant segment which included the latest creations from a variety designers including Deborah Williams; Fabric Twins; Gadol Wilson; Edwina Greg; Sofistafunk; Roger Gary; Persina Lucas and others. The show also included a sneak preview of the National Park Service Forest Rangers new uniforms.

Some creations of note included designer Douglas Say homage to the land of liberty with his patriotic-inspired “The President’s Wife” collection. His bedazzled white and blue motifs, which included evening gowns, jumpsuits, cocktail dresses, paint suits, and swimwear captured the American spirit in style and grace. The bell of the ball was designer Rodney Rogers whom received heartfelt approval from every starry-eyed future bride with his blissful display of traditional and stylistic wedding gowns. Designer Sophistafunk displayed a variety of bold theatrical creations captured everything from Southern plantations; Asian Boardrooms; and French castles. The haunting creations were meticulously layered, draped accessorized to allude to times long gone but never forgotten.  

Other noticeable fashion attractions included Clarence Black homage to the international stylized woman with his collection impressive frocks. Each masterfully tailored; meticulously layered and displayed in variety of rich, muted colors and adorned with exotic accessories including peacock feathers. Duane Fish, whose cutting edge men’s wear has been a staple in the HARLEM WEEK fashion showcases didn’t disappoint. His latest collection included hoodies with bold geometric shapes and prints; straight laced pants and bold futuristic tops. Designer Yvetta Petty, of Harlem’s Heaven topped things off with a variety of dramatic crowns and stylish hats. 

The four-part “A Great Day in Harlem” is just one of the many events comprising HARLEM WEEK 2012. Other activities during the month-long celebration include The New York City Economic Development Day Seminar, Award Luncheon & Expo; Historic Black College Fair & Expo; Upper Manhattan Auto Show; the 2-day New York City Children’s Festival and more.  Come discover the treasures of a proud community. Discover Harlem.  For further information about the excitement and culture that is HARLEM WEEK, log on to www.Harlemweek.com or call (212) 862-8477.

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