By Jennifer Finjan
Artist Arline Malakian – Black on Black
As I hobbled over cobblestones in my 5-inch stilettos, searching for the event’s entrance through narrow passage way after narrow passage way on yet another unseasonably cold April evening, I thought to myself, this better be worth it. When I finally reached my destination, I was met by a crowd of laid-back rocker types, hipsters, and I-don’t-give-a-shit-what-you-think sexy sorts. One word came to mind…. Hallelujah! Finally, an event that unites art, dance, style, fashion, and music.
I was under the impression that fashion shows could only have one general look and one predictable audience. Once I entered the warm Fermenting Cellar at Distillery District, I knew that old-fashionista tale would soon be dispelled. Once inside, I was met by a friendly mass of like-minded people who appreciated and respected all art forms. Everywhere I turned my senses were soothed by an variety of creative visions – the space, art installations, music, videos, photographers, statuesque models, voluptuous babes, rock stars, tattoos, and let’s not forget the patrons’ unique personal styles. The buzz was upbeat with no signs of pretentiousness.
FAT, in its fourth year, is a non-profit entity devoted to exploring fashion, visual arts and music through contemporary and street expression. FAT recognizes that without its sponsors and supporters the world would be unfortunately, FAT-free. FAT’s mission is to provide the people and industry an exceptional event that highlights the best of the best in ‘up-and-coming’ fashion designers, artists, and style makers.
This annual event showcased 200 of the most innovative fashion designers, visual artists, musicians, performers and dancers across the country and worldwide. It took place over four days and nights (6 pm – 1 am), and provided a platform for as many as 46 collections on the runway, over 40 visual and performance artist and 14 musical groups.
Each day FAT presented an original and Avant-garde theme. Day one’s theme was The Home – exploring places we come from, diversity issues, interconnection between art, fashion, and domestic influences. Day two’s theme was The Planet – the balance between progress and nature. Fashion and art’s relationship to the environment and the issue of sustainability. Day three’s theme was Gutter – the nature of survival and the amazing limitations, or more like limitlessness of clothing. Day four’s theme was Beyond – the concept of dreams, imagination, the extremes of invention and the possibilities for the future.
When I left FAT around the stroke of midnight for another round of cobble hobble, my mind was filled with the re-evaluation of my sense of fashion and how perhaps I could introduce more inventive and experimental pieces to my own wardrobe. That and dreams of next year’s FAT organizers offering patrons muscle-bound rickshaw rides to the cellar’s front doors – all in the name of fashion, of course.