The glitz and glamour of Miami’s fashion scene took center stage this past weekend as Fashion Group International South Florida hosted its inaugural Rising Stars Awards. Held at the magnificent Southeast Financial Center in downtown Miami, the event not only celebrated the region’s emerging fashion talent but also honored fashion and beauty veteran, Derek Warburton, with the prestigious Icon Award.
By: Allain Fonte
FGI South Florida president, Sandra Madjdi, presents in front of Miami’s top fashion insiders
The evening was a star-studded affair that drew Miami’s top fashion insiders, celebrities, reality TV personalities, and influential fashion designers, all gathering to applaud the creative spirit and innovation that defines South Florida’s fashion industry.
Fine Frenchie designer, Valeria Krasavina (LEFT), as she was honored during the night’s event with a prestigious FGISF Award for her innovative fashion brand
But the event didn’t just captivate a local audience; it also attracted international attention. A constellation of renowned celebrities graced the occasion via video congratulating FGI and its newest icon Derek Warburton, including Cynthia Baily, Candace Bushnell, Nigel Barker, Nicole Miller, Tara Reid, Peter Facinelli, Durek Verrett , Peter Thomas Roth, Princess Martha Louise of Norway, and others.
FGI South Florida’s chapter president Sandra Madjdi says”, What a memorable evening to kick off our inaugural Rising Stars in South Florida. It’s truly an honor to lead and celebrate a community of such talented creative entrepreneurs.“
Italian luxury handbag & fashion designer, Claudio Civitico and Alejandra Villalobos
Derek Warburton with Sports Illustrated model and jewelry designer, Kelly Hughes
The FGI South Florida Rising Stars Awards marked a significant moment for the fashion and beauty industry in the region. It shone a spotlight on emerging talent across various categories, from Accessories and Innovation to Ready to Wear and Swimwear.
Here are the deserving winners:
- Fashion Accessories Winner: Alessandro Vasini
- Innovation in Fashion: Valentina Varnavskaia
Ready to Wear Winner: Valeria Krasavina - Swimwear Winner: Nikoza by founder/designer, Olga Nikoza
- Members Choice Winner: The Shop Miami – Calyann Barnett
- Icon Award Recipient: Derek Warburton
Fashion Group International (FGI) is a global, non-profit organization that traces its roots back to 1930 when it was founded by Edna Chase, a former Vogue editor, and a group of influential female leaders in New York City. FGI’s mission is to provide a unique professional network that fosters shared business resources, community building, and discussions, all of which drive impactful creativity and innovation.
This glamorous fashion event, organized by one of the world’s leading fashion non-profits, has truly put South Florida on the fashion map.
