Miami, FL – September 30, 2023 — The glitz and glamor of Miami’s fashion scene took center stage this past weekend as Fashion Group International South Florida hosted its inaugural Rising Stars Awards. Held at the magnificent Southeast Financial Center in downtown Miami, the event not only celebrated the region’s emerging fashion talent but also honored fashion and beauty veteran, Derek Warburton, with the prestigious Icon Award.
Fashion Group International South Florida’s Board Members and Designers
The evening was a star-studded affair that drew Miami’s top fashion insiders, celebrities, reality TV personalities, and influential fashion designers, all gathering to applaud the creative spirit and innovation that defines South Florida’s fashion industry.
But the event didn’t just captivate a local audience; it also attracted international attention. A constellation of renowned celebrities graced the occasion via video congratulating FGI and its newest icon Derek Warburton, including Cynthia Baily, Candace Bushnell, Nigel Barker, Nicole Miller, Tara Reid, Peter Facinelli, Durek Verrett , Peter Thomas Roth, Princess Martha Louise of Norway, and others.
Fine Frenchie designer, Valeria Krasavina (center), as she was honored during the night’s event with a prestigious FGISF Award for her innovative fashion brand.
FGI South Florida’s regional director, Sandra Madjdi (left) with awardee Valeria Krasavina (right)
FGI South Florida’s regional director Sandra Madjdi says,
What a memorable evening to kick off our inaugural Rising Stars in South Florida. It’s truly an honor to lead and celebrate a community of such talented creative entrepreneurs.
The FGI South Florida Rising Stars Awards marked a significant moment for the fashion and beauty industry in the region. It shone a spotlight on emerging talent across various categories, from Accessories and Innovation to Ready to Wear and Swimwear.
Founder and designer of the swimwear brand Nikoza, the beautiful Olga Nikoza (left), receives her award.
Here are the deserving winners:
Fashion Accessories Winner: Alessandro Vasini
Innovation in Fashion: Valentina Varnavskaia
Ready to Wear Winner: Valeria Krasavina
Swimwear Winner: Nikoza by founder/designer, Olga Nikoza
Members Choice Winner: The Shop Miami – Calyann Barnett
Icon Award Recipient: Derek Warburton
Icon awardee Derek Warburton with Sports Illustrated model and jewelry designer, Kelly Hughes
Italian luxury handbag & fashion designer, Claudio Civitico and Alejandra Villalobos
Fashion Group International (FGI) is a global, non-profit organization that traces its roots back to 1930 when it was founded by Edna Chase, a former Vogue editor, and a group of influential female leaders in New York City. FGI’s mission is to provide a unique professional network that fosters shared business resources, community building, and discussions, all of which drive impactful creativity and innovation.
(from left to right) Twyla Couture, Ela Pruszynska, Derek Warburton, Toni Negas
Christian Alexander and John Martinez
Fashion publicist and influencer, Timur Tugberk, Derek Warburton and Miami Vibes Magazine editor/founder, Cybil Bonhomme
This glamorous fashion event, organized by one of the world’s leading fashion non-profits, has truly put South Florida on the fashion map.
