flower fashion

“Always look to the artist to reflect what is happening in real time with a bit of optimism and imagination,” says Meredith Corning of Meredith Corning PR.

Corning organized a group of artisans, event vendors and models to come together for an event that is billed as the first of its kind: Fleur de Muse, a virtual design masterpiece, August 8 at Castle on Stagecoach in Little Rock.

The event is brought to an audience via social media to catch a glimpse of the latest fashion and flower trends: wedding dresses by Couture by Tess Bridal; fashion floral accessories made with live flowers by Rose of Sharon Floral Design Studio; and fashion by Paul Rainwater with Q Clothier. In addition to his custom menswear, Rainwater showed off the menswear-style shirts for women, tailored to their bodies, that he started making last year.

A flower garden installation on the castle steps set the stage and became the catwalk for the show whose models were Erica Watkins, Kiley Salge, Kyla Dishman, Samantha Anderson, Michaela Boothby, Stacy Heath, Alyson Perry, Chase Rackley and Joshua Ang Price. Models carry selfie sticks on the runway while sharing with their fans on social media. Viewers can tune into any participant’s Instagram account for highlights from each member throughout the day.

Artisan hors d’oeuvres by Vibrant Occasions Catering served to models at the end of the runway, who enjoyed them by the pool: “Jar-Cute-eries,” mini-charcuterie in jars; Pipette caprese — fresh mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes and fresh basil in a pipette filled with aged balsamic vinegar; hummus shooter, topped with marinated feta and served with raw vegetables; and mini lox and bagels, homemade smoked salmon with dilled cream cheese on top of homemade mini bagels.

Rose of Sharon also released a new product launch — floral accessories including necklaces, rings, anklets, hair clips, bracelets and more, again made up entirely of fresh flowers.

“[The] Fleur de Muse’s goal is to provide inspiration for other artists and designers who may be looking for new ways to showcase their work in a more sustainable way,” said Althea Wiles with Rose of Sharon.

— Information and photos contributed by Meredith Corning PR/ Special photo for the Democratic Gazette by Sydney Rasch