Omaha Fashion Week 2017

When you hear, "midwest", you don't necessarily think, "fashion scene" or "premiere fashion event". More so, "corn fields, cows" and "boredom". Even more so when it comes to Nebraska being drug into a conversation.

Oh, Nebraska.

Where the children of the corns' first words are, "GO BIG RED!" and even the vegetarians/vegans can vouch for us being beef snobs. Safe to say, the past 5 years have played a very essential part in Nebraska's credibility and its place on the US map. Starting with the Railyard addition, The Pinnacle Bank Arena, and all who have stepped foot on that stage in following. From sports to music, and now... fashion!

Who would have thought, the Corn State, home of the Cornhuskers, would catch the eye of a New York elite!?

Omaha Fashion Week (Omaha, NE) has made it's way to larger media platforms, celebrating it's 10th Year Anniversary this past fall. With special guest such as, Fern Mallis [creator of New York Fashion Week] in the audience on the Friday and Saturday evening shows. She shared a statement with Chris Peters from The Omaha World Herald, "It proves... there are people who are talented all over the country..."

And right she was!

Myself and two other KIND Magazine team members (Olivia M. [graphic designer] and Hannah R. [stylist]) had the extreme pleasure of walking in OFW this season!

"Omaha Fashion Week was really surreal for me. It felt almost like a different world where everyone only wanted to show off the art of the designers. My designers were Judy Bales and Victoria Raile and their styles were completely different, but I loved walking for the both of them."

Olivia M. on her experience with Omaha Fashion Week.

photo above: Olivia M. backstage waiting for showtime, wearing Judy Bales Designs. Photo taken by Kathy Rae Photos

"It seriously has been such a blast throughout the years! There is no experience quite like working with designers, professional photographers, hair and makeup crews, and getting to walk the runway. There is such an adrenaline rush every time you set foot on the runway that makes you want to do it again and again. I have met so many amazing models/designers turned friend's throughout my years in fashion week and I wouldn't trade it for the world!"

Hannah R. on her experience with Omaha Fashion Week.

photo above: Hannah R. [OFW veteran, 6th show] walking the runway in an evening gown designed by Ems Trends. Photo taken by Chris Peters with Omaha World Herald

I couldn't agree more! This being being my 6th season of OFW as well, I've been able to grow along with the show and experience it's tremendous growth throughout the years! You have the awesome opportunity to meet awesome people who come from other states (models and designers) and make connections that you carry far after fashion week is over. It's an experience that every young lady/woman should go through at least once! Whether you want to be a model or not, every woman or man deserves to feel that moment of empowerment/confidence.

photo above: Cydnee J. [first] walking the runway in an outfit designed by Parodi Designs. Photo taken by Kathy Rae Photos

With all of that being said, cheers to 10 years Omaha Fashion Week, and to many more!

For those of you aspiring to be a model, fashion photographer, makeup artists, hair stylists, or even a volunteer - go to omahafashionweek.com to see how to get involved and stay up to date on upcoming model calls/events! Also, follow them on Instagram @omahafashionweek!

Check out a few more photos from Omaha Fashion Week down below!