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Orlando Fashion Week Unveils Exciting Plans & Partnerships - City Hall

Orlando Fashion Week Shines Bright: Revealing Thrilling Collaborations and Exciting Shows Uniting Style and Creativity.

In Photo:  Commissioner Hill, Deputy Managers Reginald McGill, and Luiz Martinez, Terry Olson of Orange County Cultural Arts, Nayrouz Olarte (CEO), Rob Henlon (President), Jessica Henlon (VP), Starr Dalton (VP), and Advisories Liz Sheppard & Camila Neira.
In Photo: Commissioner Hill, Deputy Managers Reginald McGill, and Luiz Martinez, Terry Olson of Orange County Cultural Arts, Nayrouz Olarte (CEO), Rob Henlon (President), Jessica Henlon (VP), Starr Dalton (VP), and Advisories Liz Sheppard & Camila Neira. (Image by Fierce Entertainment Management )

Orlando Fashion Week is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

The City Beautiful: Where Fashion Inspires and Tourism Ignites.

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On August 1st, fashion enthusiasts, city officials, and members of the media gathered at Orlando City Hall for a pivotal event announcement. The event saw notable attendees, including Luis Martinez, Commissioner Regina Hill, and Mr. Reginald McGill, representing Mayor Buddy Dyer. Also present were Terry Olson, representing Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, and Eric Williams from the Aveda Institute of Orlando.

The event commenced with Rob Henlon, the President of Orlando Fashion Week, welcoming the audience and delving into the organization’s transformative journey. Rob outlined the transition of Orlando International Fashion Week into a non-profit 501(c)(3) entity under the name Orlando Fashion Week. He detailed the incorporation of a new logo, subtly embedding the letter “I” to honor the organization’s original name. At the same time, the openness of the letter “O” symbolized inclusivity and the forthcoming diverse shows.

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Nayrouz Orlate, the Chief Executive Officer of Orlando Fashion Week, took the stage to unveil the future plans. She highlighted the spectacular venues hosting the upcoming events, including Porsche of Orlando, ICON Park, the Citrus Club, and the Aveda Institute. Nayrouz emphasized that Icon Park would host the initial model casting calls, while Porsche of Orlando would witness the debut fashion shows. She revealed a special collaboration with the Aveda Institute, where students would showcase their talent through a unique show. Nayrouz urged attendees to stay updated via OrlandoFashionWeek.org and the organization’s social media platforms.

Eric Williams, representing the Aveda Institute of Orlando, elaborated on the exciting partnership between Orlando Fashion Week and Aveda. This collaboration encompasses a student-produced show at Aveda’s Winter Park location, student involvement in hair and makeup services during Fashion Week, and the Orlando Fashion Week scholarship. The scholarship aims to support students pursuing beauty, cosmetology, and barber certifications.

Terry Olson, the head of Orange County Cultural Arts and Affairs, under the direction of Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, emphasized the collaborative spirit between Orange County and Fashion Week. He discussed potential support from United Arts and brands that could contribute to Orlando Fashion Week’s growth. Terry highlighted the event’s evolution, drawing parallels to the growth of FusionFest.

Luis Martinez, Deputy Manager of Multicultural Affairs, City of Orlando, shared Orlando’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aligning with Orlando Fashion Week’s objectives.

Reginald McGill, Deputy Manager of Constituent Relations, City of Orlando, on behalf of Mayor Buddy Dyer, expressed gratitude for Orlando Fashion Week’s presence and pledged the city’s ongoing partnership.


Commissioner Regina Hill of District 5 concluded the event with a passionate speech, emphasizing the significance of showcasing Central Florida’s arts and culture to attract tourism and celebrate local diversity.

The August 1st Event Announcement showcased Orlando Fashion Week’s dedication to fostering inclusivity, creativity, and partnerships that contribute to the region’s artistic and cultural vibrancy.

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