RVAFW SS24 Kicks Off in Style, Setting the Tone for a Week of Creativity and Collaboration

Luxury, bold, elevated, vibrant, and collaborative are just a few words used to describe the aura of opening day for Richmond Fashion Week (RVAFW) SS24.

Creatives, models, content creators, and more attended the first event of the week at the Vagabond in downtown Richmond. The chic, two-story venue not only housed artwork and accessories but also set the tone for the rest of the week.

Trench coats and blazers perused the space with drinks in hand and conversation buzzing. The energy of the room swelled as more people graced the event.

"It feels exciting. I love watching creatives thrive, that's what I'm all about," said Chanel Green-Nelson, executive director.

RVAFW is specifically curated to intersect creativity with the fashion world.

"It is fashion week, so the number one thing to expect is fashion. Fashion is a great community; it's a great expression of oneself," said Emanuel Collins, CEO and creative director of Beautification of God's Creation, a full styling platform.

The Accessory Designer Show was the perfect start to the week. Conversation filled the space as people worked the room, admiring the pieces.

The Clae accessory brand's display hooked attendees. Eccentric, hand-made earring shapes and colors adorned the corner while a model showcased a gorgeous pair. Founder, Hope Laramore, wore a pastel light blue pair of link obtuse-shaped earrings.

Her statement earrings mirrored the overall vibe of the opening showcase. Colorful, unique, and daring silhouettes are both on brand for Clae and the ambiance of the opening night.

"I've been in business for almost three and a half years, and it started with conversations and community, and just needing to create art to express ourselves. That is kind of what I'm trying to capture," said Laramore.

"I really want to highlight Richmond and the community around here..." Laramore continued.

RVAFW recognizes the artistic creatives in the area. The events this week plan to shine a light on the RVA creators made to break the mold.

"I am so excited about the Liznel show. If I were to describe what you would see on the runway, I would have to say, businesswomen flourishing. I want women to know that flourishing is not a location or a destination. You are always flourishing. I think when your perspective shifts, you know that you're always growing, always elevating, and flourishing," said Green-Nelson.

RVAFW is a breeding ground for a sense of community and collaboration. "It brings together every type of creative out there… it really just brings people of like minds into one place, and we create something beautiful out of it," Laramore said.

For more information, visit www.rvafw.com.