As the flight attendant on the charcoal runway instructed-seat belts were securely fastened, seats were adjusted to their upright positions and the packed crowd at The Vault Thursday night was all set and ready for take off. Destination? Gainesville Fashion Week 2010's first runway event.
First up was Gainesville's Wolfgang Clothing Boutique for Men and Women. With a lineup of over 60 looks, the ones that clothed the kittens on the catwalk were the most risqué. The women's skin-tight styles were especially revealing in the range of barely-there little, black dresses and brightly colored ribbed skirts all atop sky-high heels. The looks for men were chiller, as they were sporting converse sneakers and retro graphic tees.
After a brief lay over, the crowd hopped aboard the next designer's flight - Calzatura Unique Boutique. While the previous plane's vibe was glossed in club-like attire, Calzatura's looks were casual-utilizing jean shorts and ripped denim. The boutique also featured a multitude of zippered looks which are a sure staple on this year's spring fashion scene.
The final designer showcased before landing was 1990-born Kenneth McCraney. Each of his models donned statement-making bows upon their freshly styled hair by Salon 119. McCraney's designs were loose and breathable, skimming the skin rather than suffocating it. He chose simple, bold silky fabrics that were sometimes topped with tasteful silver sparkles or fur. McCraney's looks were the most notable of the evening, as he received the largest applause upon his encore. The young designer was so tickled that, when exiting the runway, he put his hands to his cheeks and flashed an enormous grin.