There was no need to jet off to New York City; right in Charleston there was an exciting five-night celebration of flourishing retail and design community. Models hit the runway representing more than 30 local retailers with nearly 100 designers presented.

The first shows kicked off last Tuesday night running through Saturday. Each night there was a glitzy after-party at a local establishment. A Bridal Couture show was added this year taking place during the day on Saturday. The catwalk was cleared for the finale gala  Saturday evening.

In addition Charleston Fashion Week added the Emerging Local Design Competition where six local designers won the opportunity to debut their innovative Spring 2008 collections. Of the 16 Charleston designers who submitted, the six chosen designers were Foster Fox, Rachel Gordon, Krista Beth Huff, Ashley Reid, Megan Waldrep and Carol Hannah Whitfield. Each contestant was required to submit four skectes, two finished ensembles and a description of their collections concept for the concept.

The panel of fashion experts were Bravo’s Project Runway  finalist, Laura Bennett, CEO and Chairman of LACOSTE USA, Bob Siegel; renowned fashion photographer, Squire Fox, local milliner Leigh Magar and Charleston magazine Style Editor Ayoka Lucas.

The styles of the local designers ranged from cutting-edge to graceful ballet-like. Lucas became a literal fashion icon in Foster Fox’s collection, AggressiveCouture.

A portion of the proceeds went to benefit the Charleston chapter of Dress for Success, a nonprofit organization that outfits women in professional attire to help them out on the road to economic independence.

For more photos of Charleston Fashion week, view the gallery on Spotted!

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