Martha’s Vineyard Fashion Week Returns

If you’re counting down to the you are not the only one. Even though this event has just one season under its studded, low-slung belt, it is already one of the most anticipated events of the post-summer, summer. From the 17th-22nd of September stores, boutiques, designers, models, stylists and fashionistas gather together for a week dedicated to fashion on Martha’s Vineyard. The week will feature several fashion shows, trunk shows, themed nights in select bars, movie features and much more.

Trena Morrison, Founder and Creative Director of Martha's Vineyard Fashion Week (MVFW) who was a fashion editor in New York City for many years before settling down to have a family on the Island, started MVFW because, “I just wanted to put together a well-done, well-thought-out show and have the clothes go back to stores and designers. I thought it would be a great way to see some great fashion and benefit the stores as well,” she said.

With a highly successful year behind her, Morrison is really looking forward to this year’s event. “This year's line-up is pretty fantastic,” she said. “The stores and designers who took that leap and showed last year are coming back for another great show.” Signing on to be involved means both a lot of exposure and a lot of work for those shops and designers. “I have to applaud all of the stores and designers because of the intense and detailed schedule they have to go through in order to show off their looks in MVFW.”

Deciding which stores and designers to include in the show is one of the hardest parts of Morrison’s job. “I try to give Islanders and visitors a taste of what's new for the end of summer/fall and available in the stores right now. If they see something in the fashion show, they can go directly to the store or designers shop and purchase that item immediately. I also try and add some dimension to our shows - mixing in high and middle of the road price point stores that will provide a great showing of product, while appealing to a wide range of ages. It's a pretty difficult task.”

There will be a few new additions to MVFW this year – including three fashion shows instead of two, a few more trunk shows and three movie showings at the new theater in Vineyard Haven. “Last year, I felt like we needed to add another dimension to MVFW to keep it fresh every year or add another element of surprise,” said Morrison. “I want MVFW to be for everyone, not just your so-called "keeping up with fashion" guys and gals. I wanted to offer a little something to appease everyone - therefore the trunk shows and beloved movies. Who doesn't love a good movie, right?”

The three fashion shows are planned to be more than just a walk down the runway. Complete with swag bags, VIP seating and a host of DJs – some of them models themselves, the shows include an Opening Party and Fashion Show at , a Summer’s Not Over Yet show at and a It's A Marvelous Night for a Moondance Closing Gala Event also at . “People can expect a great showing of looks from the local stores and designers we have all come to know, shop at and love. As always, there will be an after-party at the said venue with a great DJ, and a heftier swag bag- we will be giving out over 250 swag bags this year stocked with some great goodies,” said Morrison.

As with last year, MVFW proceeds benefit Angel Flight Northeast, an organization of volunteer pilots that arranges free flights for those requiring access to medical care off-island. Last year’s MVFW raised a little over $5,300, quite a sum considering that tickets were a mere $20 and $30, and this year they hope to do even more.

“Angel Flight is such a wonderful organization that hits home to so many Islanders,” said Morrison. “We chose to benefit Angel Flight NE because they are not widely recognized, yet they help an overwhelming number of Islanders. To bring recognition and awareness to such an amazing organization is something that I really wanted to do - and will continue to do in the future. Cancer is so wide-spread now and if you need to travel to Boston for medical services, they will arrange to fly you as many times as needed at no charge. They operate solely on donation- from the pilots to the fuel. Angel Flight NE truly are angels.”

Asked what she sees as a trend for the coming season, Morrison said, “lace and brocade with a touch of toughness to it. Sophistication takes the stage this year and is suited for many types of women to wear. It will appeal to a wide range of ages, which is so cool. Fine stitching and tailoring as well as a lot of layers - total Vineyard style with a touch of glam…what could be better?”

Martha’s Vineyard Fashion Week takes place from September 17th – 22nd. More information regarding designers, stores, schedules and events can be found on the MVFW Website or their Facebook Page.

Tickets for fashion shows are available at TicketsMV. VIP tickets for front row seats the Wednesday show at are $50 - includes table service, free drink and swag bag. Four tickets purchased together include the above and two free appetizers seats; six tickets purchased together include three appetizers.