by Kim Gebbia
NASHVILLE, Tenn- The stage is set and the models are ready for the beginning of Nashville's second annual Fashion Week.
By Saturday, ten local designers will get to debut their latest collections to a crowd of fashion fans and industry insiders. It begins Tuesday night at the Marathon Music Works on Clinton Street where Nashville designer Amanda Valentine will take the stage along with three local bands.
It's Valentine's second year showing at NFW and she says it's an honor to be a part of the event that helps the creative community thrive in Nashville.
"That is nothing but good for everybody because it's bringing a lot of attention to our city and a lot of commerce...and some fun," Valentine said.
Also bringing the fun is LA designer, Traver Rains. Last year his risque underwear collection gave the crowd a shock and this year will be no different. "The theme is sexy sailor boys and hot mermaids," he said.
He's returned after seeing the potential in Nashville's fashion scene last year.
"I was impressed when I came down here, everybody is looking for the pulse and keeping their finger on it and that is important for a city," said Rains.
As models are pinned and tucked and the clothes steamed and pressed, nerves are building for designers and organizers alike.
The one thing on their side this year is experience.
"It's the first day and nerves are as high and excited as they were this time last year. But we do have one fashion week under our belt," said Cindy Wall, one of the show's organizers.
There's more than just runway shows as part of Nashville Fashion Week. They will also be hosting a Industry Insiders Panel on Thursday at the Frist, a Versace show at the Parthenon on Friday and a Question and Answer session with Project Runway's Tim Gunn on Saturday at Green Hills Mall.
Tickets are still available for Tuesday's runway show and the events that continue through Saturday.
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