Entertainment
Orlando International Fashion Week Marks 10th Anniversary with New November Dates, Boosting Local Economy and Tourism
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Orlando International Fashion Week (OIFW) is celebrating a decade of fashion and art in the heart of Orlando with its landmark 10th anniversary event series, set to run from November 10 to November 17. This milestone event brings together local and international designers, performers, and emcees, all showcasing the unique intersection of fashion, culture, and art that Orlando has become known for.
“Celebrating 10 years is a monumental achievement for OIFW,” said Rob Henlon, OIFW Executive Director & Co-Founder. “Each year, we strive to elevate the experience for both our audiences and the talented designers who make this possible.”
Highlights of the Event:
- Economic Impact and Tourism Boost: OIFW has been a driving force in Orlando’s creative economy, attracting fashion enthusiasts, art lovers, and tourists from across the U.S. and internationally. With a full week of activities and showcases across prime venues like CityArts Downtown and the Grand Bohemian Hotel, the event supports local businesses, restaurants, and hotels.
- New Dates and Expansive Lineup: For the first time, OIFW is debuting a full November schedule, with each event tailored to a unique aspect of the fashion and art worlds. Attendees will experience everything from high-energy runway shows and rooftop parties to the “Fashion & Art Hits CityArts” opening show and the glamorous “Fashion Night Out” closing events.
Notable Events and Designers:
- November 10 – Opening Show at CityArts Downtown:
- Featured Brands: The Artistic Grove, Diverso Art Jewelry, Fancy by J. Allen, among others.
- Emcee: Valerie Boey Ramsey, a respected journalist and community leader with 30+ years in TV and print media.
- November 14 – Sponsor Event at Aloft Orlando Downtown:
- Designs by: Vedremo, Villa Vault Couture.
- Live Art and Performances: Featuring MEKA and live painting by Dr. Souf.
- November 16 – Rooftop Party & Fashion Show at Altira Pool + Lounge:
- Fashion Show Designers: SimAllure Boutique, Solicia Collection.
- November 17 – Fashion Night Out, Closing Show at Grand Bohemian Hotel:
- Featured Brands: Labelle Since 1919, SHARY Online Boutique, Galana Handmade Jewelry.
- Emcees: News anchors Michelle Imperato and Jason Guy of WESH 2.
OIFW’s Influence on Orlando’s Growth:
- Attracting Global Talent: Designers from Latin America and beyond, such as Aline Moreno from Mexico and AnaGabriel Galan from Costa Rica, add a global flair, positioning Orlando as a dynamic player on the international fashion stage.
- Supporting Local Arts and Culture: By partnering with institutions like CityArts and the Orlando Museum of Art, OIFW underscores its commitment to nurturing Orlando’s thriving arts scene and engaging the community in cultural appreciation.
Economic & Community Impact:
- Tourism and Hospitality: The event brings thousands of visitors to Orlando, benefiting local hotels, restaurants, and retailers.
- Long-term Growth: As an established event in Orlando’s cultural calendar, OIFW has set the stage for Orlando’s growth as a fashion hub, inspiring other fashion and art events to follow suit.
“Fashion has the power to connect communities and stimulate economies,” said Luis Martinez, Deputy Manager of Multicultural Affairs for the City of Orlando. “OIFW’s impact on Orlando over the past 10 years is a testament to that.”
Join Us in Celebrating 10 Years of Fashion in Orlando!
For full event details, schedules, and tickets, visit the official OIFW website.
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J Willie David, III contributed to this report.
news@FloridaNationalNews.com
Central Florida News
Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs Presents ‘HYPE HAIR’ Exhibit by Peppermint Sandy in Downtown Orlando
Entertainment
USF Credit Union Named Presenting Sponsor of ‘Rainbow To Your Door’ With $5,000 Challenge Match Grant
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The production team behind Rainbow To Your Door announced that USF Credit Union has joined the upcoming theatrical production as its Presenting Sponsor, accompanied by a $5,000 Challenge Match Grant aimed at encouraging community support and helping fully fund the project.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to arts, education, and community engagement across Central Florida. Organizers say the challenge grant will match community contributions dollar-for-dollar up to $5,000, helping expand public access and educational opportunities connected to the production.
Original Play Celebrates Florida’s Artistic Legacy
Rainbow To Your Door is an original stage production written by Los Angeles-based playwright Kenneth Brown. The play is inspired by the historic friendship and artistic exchange between acclaimed author and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston and artist Jules André Smith.
Set in 1938 at the historic Maitland Art Center, the production explores the challenges, triumphs, and purpose of artists navigating a rapidly changing world while preserving their creative voices.
“This partnership represents more than sponsorship. It is an investment in storytelling, culture, and preserving the legacy of artistic voices that helped shape Florida’s creative identity,” Brown said. “We are incredibly grateful to USF Credit Union for believing in this vision and helping us create meaningful community impact through the arts.”
Challenge Match Campaign Aims to Fully Fund Production
As part of the sponsorship, USF Credit Union will provide a $5,000 Challenge Match Grant to encourage community participation and charitable giving. Production organizers say that once the matching goal is reached, Rainbow To Your Door will be fully funded.
Donations generated through the campaign will support expanded accessibility initiatives, educational programming, community outreach, and audience engagement efforts associated with the production.
“USF Credit Union is proud to support initiatives that enrich the communities we serve,” said Rick Skaggs, CEO of USF Credit Union. “Rainbow To Your Door reflects the power of culture, education, and the arts to inspire meaningful conversations and strengthen community connections.”
Production Scheduled for October 2026
Media relations and promotional efforts for the production are being coordinated by Fierce Entertainment.
Rainbow To Your Door is scheduled for Oct. 10–11, 2026, at the Timucua Arts Foundation in Orlando.
Additional information regarding ticket sales, sponsorship opportunities, and the community challenge campaign will be announced in the coming weeks.
Media Contact:
Rob Henlon
Fierce Entertainment
rob@alwaysfierce.com
For sponsorship information and production updates, visit Rainbow To Your Door.
Central Florida News
FNN Honors Teen Reporter Isabella Schmitt as She Graduates and Pursues Communications Degree
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Florida National News proudly celebrates Isabella Schmitt as she marks an important milestone with her high school graduation and prepares to begin an exciting new chapter pursuing Communications in college.
Over the years, Isabella has represented the next generation of young voices with professionalism, creativity, determination, and passion.
Through reporting opportunities, community involvement, and media experiences, she has continued to shine both on and off camera while inspiring others through her dedication and work ethic.
Jenny Rosario, Vice President of Florida National News, praised Isabella’s accomplishments and bright future ahead.
“Watching Isabella grow both personally and professionally has been truly inspiring,” Rosario said. “She represents the future of journalism, communications, and storytelling. Her passion, confidence, and commitment to making a positive impact through media are remarkable, and we are incredibly proud of all she has accomplished.”
Rosario added that Isabella’s decision to pursue Communications in college is a natural next step for someone with such strong talent and determination.
“The world of media and communications needs more young voices like Isabella’s,” Rosario said. “We know this is only the beginning of many great accomplishments to come.”
Florida National News congratulates Isabella Schmitt and the entire Class of 2026 on this exciting achievement.
“Keep dreaming big and telling stories that matter,” Rosario added.
