On May 9 New Yorkers gathered to view designer Amy Newton of Fro-Nationale's latest anticipated collection at midtown’s The Stellan Lounge, while sipping cocktails and enjoying the ambiance. The F/W 13 Africana collection featured an exotic variety of ready-to-wear pieces that highlighted femininity, style and class.
The British designer has a worldly view of fashion as well as a commitment to color and structure. "I have a solid background in design; graduating from the University of Essex in England with a Media Production and Technology degree and a specialization in graphic design,” stated CEO and designer, Newton. “I also went to the Fashion Institute of Technology when I arrived in New York to update my design skills and to become more proficient in the design programs required for fashion design. I rely heavily on my design background and artwork skills when creating prints for fabrics.”
“I research the most vibrant and interesting symbols from traditional cultures (F/W 13 Africana collection focuses on West African symbolism) which I then manipulate and overlay my own symbols and colors too,” continued Newton. “The end result is a one-of-a-kind pattern whose foundation is derived from traditional symbolism but modernized for today's woman. I work hand in hand with local printers to apply my original artwork to the highest quality silks. These prints are strategically placed onto my contemporary garments in the form of dresses, pants, jackets and tops, usually paired with top quality wools, fur and leather. I pride myself in creating innovative, fun and interesting patterns that are uniquely Fro-Nationale."
This event was produced by NYC Fashion Runway, one of the leaders in producing the best fashion shows, and co-promoted by DEG Production a leader in unique celebrity events. How do they manage to always stay on top of the game? "We feature designer's work which is not only of the highest caliber in craftsmanship and technical ability, but which also transcends the ordinary, expresses creative design beyond process, and is visually stimulating,” said Davina Reichman Schuck, Managing Director and Founder of NYC Fashion Runway. “Amy Newton, with her Africana collection, is for the woman who loves to be comfortable and seeks lasting pieces with gorgeous glamour."
"We love the patterns that Amy creates for Fro-Nationale's individual style. There is definitely a feeling of exclusivity in wearing her garments, as each style is unlike anything else out there,” says singer, dancer and actress Laura Lee, whose roles include Roxy in Chicago the Musical, Marilyn in The Rat Pack and an acting role in Desperate Endeavors.
