The Red Bull Illume Exhibit in Marion Square

A museum in Marion Square? Yes, that’s exactly the set up that Red Bull configured—complete with viewing benches—for their Illume Exhibit, which coincides with Charleston Fashion Week^®. On Friday night, the photographic display met a huge welcome, with crowds of people surrounding the illuminated images by 50 winning action and sport photographers whose works were chosen from 22,000 entries. A global effort with photos selected from all over the world, the exhibit has made its home in the Lowcountry for the second stop on its U.S. tour. Friday’s opening event set the tone for Charleston Fashion Week^® as we danced in Marion Square under the stars to the tunes of the CFW music director Arthur Brouthers. And the party continues as people still gather each night to check out the exhibit, so it’s not too late to get in on the action!

On Sunday evening, CFW’s Emerging Designers arrived in town, and Lowcountry Aids Services threw an incredible welcome party on the rooftop of the swanky Restoration on King with delicious bites from Rice Market, bubbles from Korbel, and wines from Little Black Dress. Of course, it felt very Project Runway-esque, as every season of this hit TV show begins with the designers gathering on a rooftop. And what better way to introduce the designers to Charleston than with a gorgeous view from above? As Tim Gunn would say, “Designers” let the competition begin! 

For more photos of the Red Bull Illume opening party, click here.

For more photos of the LAS Emerging Designers Welcome Party, click here.

For bios and photos of our Emerging Designers, click here.

Attend CFW Wednesday night and get all the details for designer @MychaelKnight secret party!  For a schedule of CFW events and ticket info, click here.