Q: I’ve heard there is an “OFW Model Pool”.  What is that and what does it mean for me?
A.  Yes, there is an OFW Model Pool.  We started the Model Pool as a way to simplify the model selection process for Omaha Fashion Week and participating designers. Being included in the Model Pool means that you have an opportunity to be selected for OFW shows.  It does not guarantee you placement. You may be contacted directly by none, one or several OFW designers.  They will have access to all information we have on file for you – photo, measurements, hair color, eye color, etc.  They may cast you on the spot based on your file, or ask you to come in for an interview.

Q: How do I get into the “OFW Model Pool”?
A:   Anyone who wants to be included in the OFW Model Pool must try out at an Omaha Fashion Week Model Call.  We have one coming up on April 30 at 6 p.m. at Hilton Omaha – the big hotel attached to the Centurylink Center. Once you are in the pool, you will not need to attend future model calls to maintain your status.

Q: What can I expect when I arrive at the model call?
A:  You will do four things at the model call:  1) Receive a number that should be pinned to your shirt so we can identify you. 2) Get a photo taken. 3) Visit the measurement station, where we will take your measurements and collect your contact information. 4) Demonstrate your walk for the panel.

Q: What will the photo taken of me at the model call be used for?
A:  Strictly for identification purposes.  Photos taken at the model calls won’t be used publicly.  They help us put a face with the name during the selection process.

Q. Why do you have to take measurements? Do they determine who gets into the shows?
A.  We take measurements to help the designers get a head start on fittings.  Each garment is made to fit your body specifically – so accurate measurements are important. Without accurate measurements, a designer could end up buying too much fabric, or cutting a garment too small.  In either case, this is bad for the designer because it wastes their time and resources. The measurements are not used to determine who gets into the show – Omaha Fashion Week doesn’t have a specific measurement requirement.  Ultimately, it is up to the designers to select the models who best represent their aesthetic.

Q: What should I wear to the model call?
A: The panel of industry experts will want to see your bodyline, how you move and your face.  For ladies, we recommend something form-fitting, such as jeggings/leggings with a simple top and high-heels.  For gentlemen, we recommend jeans and t-shirts.  As for make-up, hair and accessories, keep it simple…again, the panel is looking for natural beauty.

Q: What happens if I am selected by a designer to walk in Omaha Fashion Week?
A:  If selected, you will be required to sign a release to walk in Omaha Fashion Week (if under 19, you will need to have a parent/guardian sign for you).  Your designer will provide you with the release and collect it from you.  You will also be expected to meet with your designer as needed for fittings and do your part to help bring their creativity to life on the runway.  The designer is the leader of his/her creative team, which includes a set of models, make up artists and hairstylists.  Participation in OFW is an exciting opportunity to work as a team and all members of the team are expected to do their part to deliver upon the creative vision of the designer.

Q: When will I know if I am selected for the Model Pool?  How about the actual shows?
A: You will know no later than Thursday, May 31 if you will be included in the OFW Model Pool.  This is a list of models from which designers cast their shows.  This does not guarantee you placement.  If you are included on this list, you may be contacted by none, one or many OFW designers to walk for them or to interview for an opportunity to walk.  Each designer approaches their selection process differently and the Model Pool gives them the ability to cast their shows from a group of models that have been vetted by OFW.  Given the individual approach of each designer, OFW can’t guarantee an exact time of when you will know that you’ve been cast.  In fact, there are many instances when designers need to fill a position in their line-up at the last minute - if you are in the Model Pool, you may be called upon to fill-in during such a situation.  Often these are when some of the best relationships form between designers and models.

Q: Once I am in the pool, do I need to attend future model calls to maintain my status?
A: No, you do not need to attend any more model calls to maintain your status once you are in the OFW Model Pool – that’s one of the perks of being included!!  To maintain your status, you only need to respond to an email we will send you prior to casting for each season.  This email simply states that your information will be presented to designers, unless you respond by a specific date asking us not to present it.  This email will arrive in April for August shows and October for March shows.  Please do us a favor and let us know if you change email addresses so we can stay in touch – drop us a line at info@omahafashionweek.com.  Thanks!

“We are really excited to have Chad Carr and JLynn Hausmann on board,” said OFW producer Brook Hudson. Carr is reviving the 1980’s swimwear brand, Leggoons, and Hausmann is launching high-end denim brand, JHaus, based out of L.A. during the August shows. Both Carr and Hausmann are Nebraska natives. “It’s gratifying to see that designers view OFW as the ideal platform to launch their brands nationally,” Hudson said.

The applicant pool included 64 designers who were narrowed down to 37 for the August shows. Designers applied online and a limited number were selected to pitch their ideas for their upcoming collection with a panel of industry experts brought together by the Omaha Fashion Institute. The experts scored each designer and provided feedback that organizers used to make final selection decisions.

Designers were placed into categories based on the type of work they do. “Fans can expect a theme for each night of fashion week,” Hudson said. “This allows fans to select what types of fashions they see.” The OFW show schedule will have nights focused on the following areas: Children’s wear, avant garde, bridal and swimwear, evening wear and day wear.

One significant change this year is that designers for the Saturday night finale have not yet been selected. “Saturday night will be a ‘best of’ show that includes our favorite looks from the week. We will be working with designers over the summer to see how their collections progress before making final decisions about the Saturday show,” Hudson said. Show organizers hope to feature 80-100 looks at the Saturday Finale, which will be held outdoors on Jones Street. Weeknight shows will be held indoors at KANEKO on 1111 Jones St.

OFW August 2012 is scheduled for August 20-25.  Tickets go on sale June 1 at omahafashionweek.com/tickets. Prices for weeknight tickets range from $65 for a VIP seat to $50-$30 for reserved seats. Ticket prices for the Saturday Finale range from $1,000 for a 10-person VIP table or $120 for an individual VIP seat to $60-$30 for reserved seats.

Omaha Fashion Week: August 2012 Designers

Children’s Wear: Monday Night, 8/20
Aubrey  Sookram for Markoos Modern Design
Hollie Hanash for Ruffled Runway
Jea Theis for Jake & Lucy
Rebecca Robbins for Fit for a Princess
Susan Ludlow
Yolanda Diaz for Little Miss Fashion

Avant Garde: Tuesday Night, 8/21
Angela Balderston for Get Plastered
Audio Helkuik
Dan Richters
Ellene McClay for FORTRESS
Joi Katskee for Joi Joison
Mai Do
Terri Jen Buckner for Nuevintage Apparel & Accessories
Tiffany Headley for Donna Faye

Bridal & Swimwear: Wednesday Night, 8/22
Chad Carr for Leggoons
Erin Thomas for Toxic Sadie
Jessica Hansen for Jessica Alyse
Kendra Morgan for AML Designs
Michaela Cawley for Kkini
Sabrina Jones

Evening Wear: Thursday Night, 8/23
Bertiher De La Cruz
Buf Reynolds
Fella Vaughn for Fella
Juantiesha Christian for SuShe by J. Tracy
Kate Walz for Just Because
Lameesha Stuckey for Stylishly Chic
Leah Casper for Casper Couture
Maximillian Suiter for Max Millian
Williams Torres for WILL STYLE

Day Wear: Friday Night, 8/24
Audra McAvaddy for Coriander
Daniel Munoz
Eliana Smith
Kaitlyn  Fitzgerald for KAIT Blu
Masey Rost
JLynn Hausmann for JHaus
Shamina Wiek for Pastel GROOVE House

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About Omaha Fashion Week
On the inside, Omaha Fashion Week is a talent incubator that seamlessly connects designers, stylists, photographers, artists and models through nurturing platforms and engaging opportunities. On the outside, Omaha Fashion Week is Midwest’s premier fashion event; spotlighting fashion innovations and celebrating creative excellence. Learn more at www.omahafashionweek.com.

About Omaha Fashion Institute
The Omaha Fashion Institute is a non-profit operating under the Omaha Community Foundation that nurtures aspiring fashion designer talent by supporting and developing the Midwest fashion ecosystem through programming that provides creative inspiration, training opportunities, resources and business incubation to unlock the creative entrepreneurial potential in our young people. Support the OFI at www.omahafashionweek.com/omaha-fashion-institute.

About Kaneko
KANEKO is a new kind of organization – not a museum – not a gallery – not a library nor a research center – but an open space for open minds that nurtures and promotes creativity in the arts, sciences, and philosophy. Through progressive exhibitions, performances, lectures, symposia, and innovative programming we encourage people to explore and experience the creative process that is essential to all human activity. Learn more at www.thekaneko.org.

Drum roll please…
The T-shirt winners are Christine Meehan Poore, Judy Roach and Logan K Finn! Email your size and address to info@omahafashionweek.com.

Winners MUST respond by 11:59 PM on Saturday, April 21st, or new winners will be chosen. Open to U.S. Residents only. Prizes will be mailed to U.S. addresses or can be picked up locally. Each winner was chosen randomly with the help of random.org.

We want to thank our fans for getting us here by giving a little something back. To say thanks for your support, we had a Omaha Fashion Week t-shirt giveaway.

Once again, thanks OFW fans for all of your support and we hope to see you at the August show!

We have almost reached 10,500 Facebook fans!

We want to thank our fans for getting us here by giving a little something back. To say thanks for your support, we are giving away an Omaha Fashion Week t-shirt to three lucky fans (available in womens sizes S, M, L, XL).

The giveaway will last a week from today, Wednesday, April 18th at 6:00 PM (Central).

Here’s how to win:

• You MUST be a fan on Facebook. If you’re not already, you can still join us.

• Leave ONE comment on our Facebook post telling us what you love most about Omaha Fashion Week.

Extra entries:

• Tag us in your status and tell us about an amazing experience you have had with us (1 extra entry)
• Tweet @omahafashionwk and tell us what you love most about Omaha Fashion Week (1 extra entry)
• Repin our pin about the t-shirt giveaway which can be found here.  (1 extra entry)
You have until 6:00 PM (Central) on Wednesday, April 18th to enter. Three winners will be chosen at random and will be announced here on the blog and Facebook on Thursday, April 19th.

Winners MUST respond by 11:59 PM on Saturday, April 21st, or new winners will be chosen. Open to U.S. Residents only. Prizes will be mailed to U.S. addresses or can be picked up locally.

Once again, thanks OFW fans for all of your support and good luck!

Tafe Bergo:
Tafe is the owner of the Post & Nickel, a well-known high-end boutique with locations in Omaha and Lincoln.  A Lincoln native, she grew up in the industry by working as a model and learning the ropes in retail from her parents, who started the business in in 1966. She and her husband, Davide, a native of Milan, took over the business in 1996.  Tafe is a great supporter of Omaha Fashion Week and has participated in Fashion’s Night Out Omaha – a city-wide celebration of local fashion and retail – for several years.

Wendy Chapman:
Wendy is a retail consultant who has made deals with national chains through her work at One Pacific Place and RED Development.  She brought Anthropologie, Trader Joe’s, Urban Outfitters, American Apparel, Coach and many others to Omaha.  She now works independently as principal of Chapman Retail Consulting, which allows her to work directly with retailers, placing them around the U.S.  Prior to working in real estate, she managed merchandizing and fashion shows at One Pacific Place.  She is a founding member of the Omaha Fashion Institute Board of Directors.

Alyssa K. Dilts:
Alyssa has over a decade of experience in instructing and placing models.  She began her career handling the runway division for Elite Model Management Chicago.  While there, she was promoted to the Director of New Faces & Development.  Alyssa had the opportunity to see the international market at its best when a model she developed was chosen to open the Alexander Wang Show during New York Fashion Week in September 2011.  Alyssa then accompanied that model to Milan and Paris where she walked for the Versace and Balenciaga.  Alyssa now runs Development, an Omaha-based modeling school and placement agency.  She is also a founding member of the Omaha Fashion Guild.

Andrea Hoig:
Andy is the publisher of metroMAGAZINE, which has been in business for over 20 years, covering Omaha at its best.  This magazine along with other publications produced by ALH Publications, has pioneered the process of connecting followers with the charitable causes they care about.  Andy has been a long-time supporter of Omaha Fashion Week and is a founding board member of the Omaha Fashion Institute.

Marcy Kerkhoff:
Marcy is a singer/songwriter/pianist from Iowa with over 20 years of experience in the modeling and advertising industry. Past work includes on-camera film (TV commercials, industrials, etc.), print, runway, PR, and voice work.  She is a founding member of the Omaha Fashion Guild.

David Levin:
David is a long-time purveyor of style in both fashion and interior design in Omaha.  He and his father owned 18 retail stores in a four-state region, clothing some of Omaha’s wealthiest women.  The most well-known store was a high-end women’s boutique called The Avenue.  Advertisements from The Avenue featured the illustrations of Mary Anne Vaccaro, another of our panelists, who was the fashion advertising director, illustrator and copywriter for Levin’s 18 stores.

Josie Loza:
Josie is the editor of MOMAHA – an Omaha World Herald blog for moms.  Previously, she covered Omaha nightlife and during this time she shined a light on the city’s burgeoning fashion scene.  Her coverage of Omaha Fashion Week and its many designers brought fashion design as a career out of the shadows and into the mainstream by telling great stories that have given aspiring designers and show-goers the confidence to pursue their dreams in the industry.

Meghann Schense:
Meghann is owner of Esoteric Velvet and has experience in personal and commercial styling, writing/copywriting, marketing/media direction, event planning, brand enrichment and business/operational organization.   She has developed expertise producing & designing online/print content & layouts, conceptualizing themes/campaigns, creating visual/art installments, directing/styling photo shoots and planning/hosting events.  OFW is proud to have her on board as our head stylist and editorial contributor to Omaha FASHION Magazine.

Barb Trout:
A UNL faculty member since 1981, Trout teaches many aspects of apparel design and visual merchandising, as well as history of costume. She is curator of the historic costume collection in the Department of Textiles, Clothing and Design.

Mary Anne Vaccaro:
Mary Ann is a nationally acclaimed fashion designer whose couture dresses, suits and separates have been worn by highly successful women and featured in national publications including Town & Country Magazine. Along with running a design studio and workroom, she ran a Fashion Advertising business in five states, had a New York showroom for her Ready-to-Wear collection and designed freelance bridal and evening wear for New York manufacturers.

Q: I’ve heard there is an “OFW Model Pool”.  What is that and what does it mean for me?
A.  Yes, there is an OFW Model Pool.  We started the Model Pool as a way to simplify the model selection process for Omaha Fashion Week and participating designers. Being included in the Model Pool means that you have an opportunity to be selected for OFW shows.  It does not guarantee you placement. You may be contacted directly by none, one or several OFW designers.  They will have access to all information we have on file for you – photo, measurements, hair color, eye color, etc.  They may cast you on the spot based on your file, or ask you to come in for an interview.

Q: How do I get into the “OFW Model Pool”?
A:   Anyone who wants to be included in the OFW Model Pool must try out at an Omaha Fashion Week Model Call.  We have one coming up on April 30 at 6 p.m. at Hilton Omaha – the big hotel attached to the Centurylink Center. Once you are in the pool, you will not need to attend future model calls to maintain your status.

Q: What can I expect when I arrive at the model call?
A:  You will do four things at the model call:  1) Receive a number that should be pinned to your shirt so we can identify you. 2) Get a photo taken. 3) Visit the measurement station, where we will take your measurements and collect your contact information. 4) Demonstrate your walk for the panel.

Q: What will the photo taken of me at the model call be used for?
A:  Strictly for identification purposes.  Photos taken at the model calls won’t be used publicly.  They help us put a face with the name during the selection process.

Q. Why do you have to take measurements? Do they determine who gets into the shows?
A.  We take measurements to help the designers get a head start on fittings.  Each garment is made to fit your body specifically – so accurate measurements are important. Without accurate measurements, a designer could end up buying too much fabric, or cutting a garment too small.  In either case, this is bad for the designer because it wastes their time and resources. The measurements are not used to determine who gets into the show – Omaha Fashion Week doesn’t have a specific measurement requirement.  Ultimately, it is up to the designers to select the models who best represent their aesthetic.

Q: What should I wear to the model call?
A: The panel of industry experts will want to see your bodyline, how you move and your face.  For ladies, we recommend something form-fitting, such as jeggings/leggings with a simple top and high-heels.  For gentlemen, we recommend jeans and t-shirts.  As for make-up, hair and accessories, keep it simple…again, the panel is looking for natural beauty.

Q: What happens if I am selected by a designer to walk in Omaha Fashion Week?
A:  If selected, you will be required to sign a release to walk in Omaha Fashion Week (if under 19, you will need to have a parent/guardian sign for you).  Your designer will provide you with the release and collect it from you.  You will also be expected to meet with your designer as needed for fittings and do your part to help bring their creativity to life on the runway.  The designer is the leader of his/her creative team, which includes a set of models, make up artists and hairstylists.  Participation in OFW is an exciting opportunity to work as a team and all members of the team are expected to do their part to deliver upon the creative vision of the designer.

Q: When will I know if I am selected for the Model Pool?  How about the actual shows?
A: You will know no later than Thursday, May 31 if you will be included in the OFW Model Pool.  This is a list of models from which designers cast their shows.  This does not guarantee you placement.  If you are included on this list, you may be contacted by none, one or many OFW designers to walk for them or to interview for an opportunity to walk.  Each designer approaches their selection process differently and the Model Pool gives them the ability to cast their shows from a group of models that have been vetted by OFW.  Given the individual approach of each designer, OFW can’t guarantee an exact time of when you will know that you’ve been cast.  In fact, there are many instances when designers need to fill a position in their line-up at the last minute - if you are in the Model Pool, you may be called upon to fill-in during such a situation.  Often these are when some of the best relationships form between designers and models.

Q: Once I am in the pool, do I need to attend future model calls to maintain my status?
A: No, you do not need to attend any more model calls to maintain your status once you are in the OFW Model Pool – that’s one of the perks of being included!!  To maintain your status, you only need to respond to an email we will send you prior to casting for each season.  This email simply states that your information will be presented to designers, unless you respond by a specific date asking us not to present it.  This email will arrive in April for August shows and October for March shows.  Please do us a favor and let us know if you change email addresses so we can stay in touch – drop us a line at info@omahafashionweek.com.  Thanks!

• Neutrals- Light neutrals such as nude, blush, and camel.
• Pleats- They are everywhere, but be careful this can add volume.
  
• Neon- Tone this trend down by mixing with nude.
• Skinny belts- This is a great way to incorporate the neon trend. Also, helps give you an hourglass shape.
  
• Pastels- Pastels scream spring has arrived. A great one to try is mint because it’s flattering on a lot of skin tones.
  
  
• Prints- Mix your prints and have fun! Aztec/Tribal is one of our favorites to try.
  
• White on White- This is such a timeless, chic look. Great for work or night. To add a pop of color, wear this look with a bright shade of lipstick.
  
• Twists- Don’t know how to French braid? You’re in luck twists are the new braid, so twist away!
• Brights- Any color of the rainbow will do for this trend. Pair it with another bright for a quirky style, or with a neutral for a daytime vibe.
  

To stay up-to-date with OFW style follow us on Tumblr and Pinterest!

From an Omaha Fashion Week news release that went out today…

Omaha, NE, Feb. 16, 2012 – Jerell Scott, of this season’s Project Runway All Stars, is scheduled to grace the Red Carpet at Omaha Fashion Week March 2012 during the Friday and Saturday evening runway shows. 

“We are hoping to squeeze in a little time so Jerell can meet our designers,” OFW producer Nick Hudson said. “It’s great when we get people like this to come to our shows. Not only are they exposed to a much different side of Omaha than what is typically presented in the national press, but they also have a tremendous impact in terms of their ability to inspire our designers and share valuable insights.”

His appearance is sponsored by Development, a new modeling school and placement agency opening this March and the Omaha Fashion Institute, a non-profit that supports Midwest fashion designers. “The thing that thrilled me about moving from a leading agency in Chicago and setting my own up in Omaha was bringing exciting opportunities like this to the amazing talented young people here,” Development founder, Alyssa Dilts said. Dilts handled the runway division and directed new faces for Elite in Chicago, where she had the opportunity to see the international market, accompanying models who walked in fashion weeks around the world.

Scott has seen considerable success on Project Runway All Stars, winning last week’s Fashion Face Off after fellow contestant Michael Costello was accused of copying his design.  Scott hails from Houston, but now lives in Los Angeles where he has designed garments for Katy Perry, Christina Milian, Nicki Minaj and Selma Blair.

Omaha Fashion Week is March 21-24 at KANEKO on 1111 Jones Street in Omaha.  Ticket prices range from $30-$60 and are on sale at www.omahafashionweek.com.

###

About Omaha Fashion Week
Omaha Fashion Week is Midwest’s premier fashion event; surpassing Kansas City, Chicago, St. Louis, Minneapolis and Denver in terms of audience size and the number of independent Midwest designers we support; spotlighting fashion innovations and celebrating creative excellence. Learn more at www.omahafashionweek.com.

About the Omaha Fashion Institute
The Omaha Fashion Institute is a non-profit organization that seeks to nurture the Midwest fashion ecosystem by providing Midwest fashion designers creative inspiration, training opportunities, resources and business incubation to unlock the creative entrepreneurial potential in our young people.

About Development
Development is Omaha’s premier modeling school and placement agency. Courses are designed to make real changes through expert personal instruction, covering topics such as personality, respect, public speaking, fashion styling, confidence and poise on the runway and behind the camera. Learn more at www.develop-models.com.

Who should apply

• Those driven by creativity and dedicated to individualism
• New faces looking for opportunities
• Interested in the local fashion community

Incentives

• Behind-the-scenes at Omaha fashion week
• Work directly with our designers
• Have your looks showcased on the runway
• Networking

If this sounds like the perfect fit for you please fill out the salon/stylist/mua form here.

Photo by Greg Higgins.

The designer application for OFW: August 2012 opens Feb. 15. Please read on to learn more about the application process and note important dates.

CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION

• Designer applications for OFW: August 2012 will be available online from Feb. 15- Apr. 9, 2012.
• All applications must be submitted by midnight on Apr. 9.  No late applications will be accepted.
• OFW is looking for Spring/Summer 2013 collections to be shown in August shows.
• OFW is looking for designers that fall into the following categories: Women’s wear, men’s wear, children’s wear, bridal, evening wear, swimwear, business wear, day/street wear, alternative, and fashion as art.
• Applications will be reviewed and narrowed down to a set of designers who will be selected to participate in interviews with a panel of independent professionals from the industry. Interview invitations will be sent out via email on Apr. 11.
• Interviews will take place Apr. 13-14, times and location TBD.  Applicants must be available to interview during this time to participate in OFW: August 2012.
• Each interview will take 10 minutes.
• Interviewees must come prepared with at least one garment that represents their ability/craftmanship along with sketches of at least three pieces that will represent their planned collection.  The panel will score each interviewee and scores will be used to make final selections for OFW: August 2012.
• Final selection notices will go out via email on Apr. 20.
• Selected designers will be asked to attend an orientation meeting Apr. 22 at 5 p.m., location TBD.
• OFW: August 2012 Designers will be announced on Apr. 23

Good luck!