On January 24th, Miami Fashion Week® (MIAFW) transformed into a buzzing hub for fashion enthusiasts as it hosted a series of engaging events, including a memorable press conference, an insightful streetwear panel, and the much-anticipated MIAFW debut of renowned designer Karl Kani.

The festivities commenced with a press conference at the esteemed Gary Nader Art Centre. Notable figures like art collector Gary Nader, CFDA President CaSandra Diggs, fashion designer Karl Kani, Miami-Dade Commissioner Oliver Gilbert, and MIAFW Executive Managing Director Lourdes Fernández-Velasco gathered to welcome the Miami community and unveil exciting details about this year’s MIAFW.

The momentum continued as guests enjoyed a special brunch at the chic Kiki on the River. Here, Karl Kani joined forces with filmmaker Jessy Terrero and songwriter Ashley Joi for a captivating panel discussion. Moderated by CaSandra Diggs, the panel delved into the intersection of style and culture and its impact on the industry.

The highlight of the day was the evening’s runway show, headlined by Karl Kani, affectionately known as the “Godfather of Streetwear.” Marking a milestone for MIAFW, Kani was celebrated as the first streetwear designer to be featured in the event. The runway came alive with his unique creations, worn by a mix of influential personalities including actress Pretty Vee, MMA world champion David Evans, and former NBA star Larry Sanders Jr. Their dynamic presence showcased Kani’s signature oversized styles and bold, colorful designs, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

The runway show took place at The Elser Hotel, which drew in notable attendees such as:

• Guerdy Abraira, Real Housewives of Miami
• Vena E., MTV reality star and comedian
• Kiko El Crazy, Musician
• Dalex, Musician
• Pretty Vee, Actress
• David Evans, World Champion MMA Fighter
• Larry Sanders Jr., Former NBA Player
• Oliver Gilbert, Miami-Dade Commissioner
• Shantall Lacayo, Fashion Designer
• Leli Hernandez, Influencer
• Arjun Petgrave, Model

Karl Kani
www.karlkani.com | @karlkani

Karl Kani has truly gone from rags to riches. Known as the God Father of Urbanwear, he now finds himself looking over the billion dollar industry that he inspired. He is a visionary of many firsts…the first to develop the baggy jean concept, the first urban fashion company to employ an all-black sales force, and the first designer to host a fashion show at the White House during President Bill Clinton’s term.

Growing up in Brooklyn, Karl’s style was inspired by Hip-Hop and street culture; apparel in this aesthetic was nowhere to be found. Without adequate clothing options, 16-year old Carl Williams decided to make his own clothes. Friends and strangers took notice of his unique threads, and Williams soon began taking orders. He yearned to take this hobby to the next level and would ask himself the question, “Can I do it?” With more and more demand from the public for his wares, he gained the confidence to move forward. He eventually answered that incessant question, “Yes I can,” and committed himself to the challenge by legally changing his name to Karl Kani. In 1989, under his new moniker, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue this passion more seriously.

Today the Karl Kani brand has spread internationally throughout 25 countries in Europe and with 13 flagship stores in Japan alone, including one in Harajuku. Unlike many other high-end brands, Karl Kani has stayed true to his label. His passion for quality, design and craftsmanship has meant that Kani always honors the brand’s roots and continues to produce many garments in the US.

Miami Fashion Week
www.miamifashionweek.com | @miamifashionweek

Miami Fashion Week takes place in Miami, a city that has evolved into the main bridge between the US and Latin America. This event goes beyond the runway generating a mix between fashion, beauty, music, art, charity, latest trends, gastronomy, luxury, and lifestyle.

All images courtesy of courtesy of Miami Fashion Week.

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