It’s been a minute since we’ve sunk our stilettos into a full-fledged GVL Fashion Week. Do you remember where to go, what to do, and the all-important what to wear? Best buckle up and cinch that sash, because this year’s journey will culminate in the “biggest” show yet, filled with twists, turns, and flair.
“The last few years have been a whirlwind for everyone,” shares founder and executive director, Maeghan Heinz. “It’s wonderful to have some sense of normalcy and return to a full-scale production. We are coming back even stronger as a team and community to elevate fashion.” Are you ready for the ride?
Here we go.
GVL Fashion Week Guide
Pre-Week Prep
Although it’s the event’s fifth year, this is only the fourth with a show. (Thank you, COVID.) To propel GVL Fashion Week forward, organizers went big with a 2022 theme: “The Greatest Fashion Show” with “red hot fashion.” Secure your red outfits and red accessories well ahead of time.
Maeghan advises, “Shop local boutiques and look at fashion trends on the red carpet. This is truly an opportunity to go out in outfits you don’t normally wear. Think outside of the box.
There are no limits. Express yourself and go over the top.” As you shop, visit the thirteen restaurants vying to create the signature cocktail of Fashion Week. Try the cocktails starting April 1 and vote online at GVLFashionWeek.com by April 13.
The Greatest Fashion Party, April 14
Zen will paint the town red during this kick-off to a weekend full of high style.
Steel Toe Stiletto will take the stage during the open-bar gathering. Watch for the Emerging Designer showcase and Top Model Preview, and pop the cork on the Top Cocktail winner. In a new addition this year, Artisphere will also have work on display. “We wanted to partner with Artisphere in 2020, but the world had other plans,” reveals Maeghan. “Fashion is art, so showcasing this work on and along the runway is a seamless addition to an already incredible night.”
The Greatest Fashion Show, April 15
This year’s primary events at Fluor Field will showcase national and local designers on the longest runway in the event’s history.
“It’s our first time at this venue, and the runway is almost as long as a football field,” explains Maeghan. “More than 12 collections will showcase items from local boutiques, our Emerging Designer and Top Model Competitions, and our Wonder Women of Greenville.”
Fashionably Classy Easter Egg Hunt, April 16
Come dressed in your Easter best at 10 a.m. for this fashion-forward holiday tradition. The Easter Bunny will be on hand, as children search the field in sections by age, for one sparkly GFW egg in particular. Starting at noon, guests can Shop the Runway until 7 p.m. “There’s so much e-commerce,” states Maeghan. “It’s nice to actually see and touch the items. You can feel the quality and have access to unique designer clothing, right on the spot.
Kids/Tween Fashion Show, April 16
Oh, the smiles, as young models gather their confidence and strut the catwalk at 1:30 p.m. Always a crowd favorite, seats for this event are already sold-out, and it’s down to standing tickets only.
The Greatest Fashion Show Finale, April 16
The runway will come alive in a culmination of all the week’s events. “As I like to say, there’s something for everyone,” Maeghan confides. “There are so many different facets to this. It’s a great place to network, have fun, and meet like-minded people, while supporting local fashion.” The finale includes the announcement of the Emerging Designer and Top Model winners, Artisphere installments, as well as the Top Dog competition.
GVL Fashion Week runs from April 13–16. Tickets are available to individual events, starting at $25 for the Easter Egg Hunt and $30 for the Kids/Tween Fashion Show. All other event tickets range from $99–$250 (for front row, VIP reserved seats). Visit GVLFashionWeek.com.
