VIP Show at Lake Nona Wave Hotel with Florida Fashion Shows [Gallery]
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Central Florida’s fashion scene ignited with excitement during Florida Fashion Shows’ Swim Week takeover, held June 5-7, 2025 at Porsche South Orlando and The Wave Lake Nona. The three-day event brought together emerging designers, established brands, industry insiders and fashion enthusiasts for a dynamic celebration of style, creativity and community.
Emerging Designers Show at Porsche South Orlando
The festivities kicked off on June 5 with an exclusive industry dinner, providing a platform for networking and anticipation ahead of the weekend’s runway showcases. On June 6, Porsche South Orlando transformed into a high-energy fashion arena as it hosted the Emerging Fashion Show inside its iconic luxury car showroom. Designers competed head-to-head, presenting bold, innovative collections that blended high fashion with sleek sophistication. The event captivated attendees with its unique fusion of automotive excellence and runway glamour.
Models walk the runway at Porsche South Orlando on Friday June 6th, 2025
“I am absolutely buzzing with excitement after our incredible fashion show,” said Nayrouz Olarte, CEO of Florida Fashion Shows. “The atmosphere was electric, and the energy was contagious! Our goal is to elevate this community even further, connecting our designers with wider audiences and celebrating the unique artistry that each individual brings to the runway. This is just the beginning, and I can't wait to see where this journey takes us!”
Designers throughout the weekend included: Kam Tate, Noiraud Shop by Therese Mbaye, Olgio, Wendy Zometa, Majestic, Yama by His Grace, PM Markhos, Woahco, Depalma, Claudia Gutierrez, Inna’s Designs, Apricot Lane, Smart Swimsuits, Aramare, Bloomingdales, Ferragamo, Boss, Maje, Sandro.
On Friday’s Emerging Designers Show, the crowd had the opportunity to participate in live voting during the event with Noiraud Shop by Therese Mbaye winning overall best emerging designer focusing on African roots through her designs. Merging culture with fashion seamlessly.
June 7th spotlighted the next generation of style icons with the Florida Fashion Shows Kids Runway at The Wave Lake Nona’s Sculpture Garden. Young models showcased playful, fashion-forward looks from brands like Smart Swim Suits, Aramare and Apricot Lane Windermere. The show celebrated creativity and confidence in kid-approved styles, bringing fresh energy to the weekend.
The inspiration from last weekend's event was incredible, with so many people expressing their excitement and newfound motivation to explore the fashion industry, said Theresa Mbaye, winner of Best Emerging Designer in the show. “I'm thrilled to see Orlando's fashion scene flourishing with such vibrant and unique designs, uniting our community in a celebration of creativity. The enthusiastic support truly empowers us to envision even more diverse and exciting fashion shows in the future!”
Friends congratulate Therese Mbaye on winning Best Emerging Designer
VIP Show at Lake Nona Wave Hotel
Complementing the runway events was a bustling fashion pop-up expo, also held at The Wave Lake Nona, where guests explored the latest trends and exclusive collections. The weekend culminated with a VIP evening show featuring elevated resort glam looks, capping off the takeover with sophisticated summer style.
VIP guests were welcomed with a gift bag at their chairs
“Florida Fashion Shows is redefining the fashion landscape in Central Florida, elevating local talent, celebrating creativity and giving designers, stylists and visionaries a platform to be seen,” said Yomi Gissel, Orlando Fashion Stylist. “For this show, I had the opportunity to curate a collection featuring pieces from Ferragamo, Boss, Reiss, Bloomingdale’s, Maje and Sandro. The goal was to craft a cohesive and artistic presentation that reflects the boldness and sophistication of our city’s style. The organizers have created more than just a show, they've sparked a movement that is putting Orlando on the map as a rising fashion hub.”
Throughout the weekend, Florida Fashion Shows delivered a multifaceted experience, combining glamour, innovation and community spirit. With tickets selling out quickly and enthusiasm high, the event reaffirmed its position as a highlight of Orlando’s fashion calendar, setting the stage for even greater showcases in the seasons ahead.
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