By: Heather Armas/Staff Writer
The 10th annual FIU Fashion Show, hosted by the ladies of Phi Sigma Sigma, is being held on Oct. 25 at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables at 8 p.m.
The fashion show’s main aim is to help raise funds and awareness for two charities: Janelle’s Wishing Well and the National Kidney foundation. Both charities are held near to the hearts of the Phi Sigma Sigma ladies; Janelle’s Wishing Well is a foundation set up in honor of former Phi Sigma Sigma member, Janelle Bertot, who passed away because of carbon monoxide poisoning back in 2004.
Kristina Puma, the 2011 fashion show director, said, “The main goal is to raise money for these philanthropies as well as awareness and prevention.”
The show also wants to reach out to donors and touch them on a personal level because contributions are a vital part of these causes.
One of the show’s main aspects is to educate its viewers on how frequent carbon monoxide poisoning and kidney disease are and why it is so important to raise money for these causes.
Prices for admission have not been disclosed, but there will be general admission and V.I.P. packaging.
Tryouts for models were held in September. The list of the 50 models chosen were announced on Oct. 6.
This year’s theme is going to be Monte Carlo. “The European Vegas, think classy and vintage.” said Puma.
One of the designers who will be showcased in the fashion show is Cia Maritimaa Brazilian swimwear company that was started in 1990 in Latin America and featured in Miami Swim Week.
The newest boutique to be showcasing at the fashion show is Moon Drops, a high end boutique that showcases top designers like JJ Winters bags, Akiko and others.
Speaking on the experience of being involved in the fashion show, Puma said, “This is actually my first time working on the show; it has been a rewarding experience thus far knowing the opportunity I’ve been given to give back to the community.”
Monique Rodriguez, the 2011 assistant director also spoke on the experience of working on the fashion show. “As assistant director for the 2011, 10th Annual FIU Fashion Show, I have been contacting local vendors to invite them to participate in the fashion show – whether it be through a monetary donation, services or any product donation they would like to provide us with. Among this year’s local sponsors are Misha’s Cupcakes and RA Sushi to name a few.
Needless to say, as the date approaches, my position will require me to help Kristina Puma to fine-tune all the details ranging from decorations to sponsorships in order to ensure a successful event.”
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