Event organizers want to know: “How do we push the boundaries — with boundaries?
Indeed?
Backstage, separate changing areas divide the male and female models. And while, sure, there is a swimwear show, only women are allowed in the audience. Gender segregation is an event choice designed to avoid any “awkward” feelings for audience members or models, according to Jose Gomez, co-organizer of the event.
This should be interesting.
Adam and Eve might have donned barely a fig leaf, but modesty rules this week in Tampa. The mission behind the event is to showcase designs that “promote and respect stylish moderation instead of sexuality and excess,” according to their website. “A lot of the designers we talked with looked at the challenge as a creative challenge: How do we push the boundaries — with boundaries?” Gomez said.
Christian Fashion Week is yet another example of a Christian cottage industry, from filmmaking to fashion, trying to distance itself from secular culture. It’s also an outgrowth of an evolving conversation on Christian websites about what’s acceptable for believers to wear — particularly for Christian women. Modesty talk is ostensibly directed at males and females alike, but it is most often women who are scrutinized for clothing that reveals “too much” or “provokes” male lust.
Yup. Gotta watch that male lust.
Modesty is their raison d’être, but don’t expect ambrosia and streamers in a church basement. The event promises “high fashion and an electric night of music, style and plenty of swag,” organizers say.
And what constitutes swag at Christian Fashion Week? Participants will all be leaving with designer Bibles in tow.
A designer Bible? Now that’s something interesting. Wish I could see one.
The event evidently has nine designers to keep your eyes on. Here’s a number by Alma Vidovic that I could see many a senior citizen wear on Sunday morning.
You can find more creations after the jump. Enjoy!
