IVY DEBUTS EMERGING DESIGNER PROGRAM WITH FINE-ARTIST TURNED DESIGNER ANGELYS BALEK

IVY, the world’s first Social University of emerging leaders and creators, introduced its IVY Emerging Designer Program with a magnificent fashion presentation by fine-artist-turned-designer Angelys Balek at The High Line Hotel during New York Fashion Week.

Angelys Balek’s fine art background shined through-out the collection. The colorful and ethereal prints complimented the equally ethereal silhouettes inspired by the festive atmosphere of the Full Moon Festival. The prints featured in the new collection were a collective fusion of watercolor works painted by members of her brand during a trip to Phuket, Thailand. Balek’s namesake collection launched in the US in 2013 to critical acclaim, including a nomination as a finalist in WGSN’s Global Fashion Awards, as well as editorial praise from Elle, Marie Claire, and Vogue Thailand, and has been recently featured in Harper’s Bazaar, as worn by Dree Hemingway.

The event concluded with a fun collaborative performance by singer/model Kate Nauta and Chris Liggio of Epic Records’ Lipstick Gypsy. Balek’s designs were complimented by the historical and captivating architecture of The High Line Hotel’s Refectory. Heavy hitters within the fashion world and influencers alike including DJ Chelsey Leyland, Chloe Norgaard, Team USA’s Kristi Castlin, Dani Song, THINX co-founder Antonia Saint Dunbar, and actor Anson Mount were present. The event was hosted by Miss USA 2015, Olivia Jordan.

IVY was founded in 2013 in NYC with a mission is to be a catalyst for emerging leaders by introducing them to transformative experiences, people, and ideas. IVY’s Emerging Designer Program is created to showcase, inspire and support rising leaders in fashion by giving them an important edge in a highly competitive industry. As part of this dynamic program, IVY selects designers with world-class potential to showcase in NYC, LA, and Miami, and mobilizes its community of emerging leaders to support and promote them nationwide.

angelys balek ivy emerging designer program

Designer Angelys Balek

Ivy’s Founder & Co-CEO Beri Meric

This feature story is also similar in collaborative nature as the fashion and music presentation. I partnered with New York City Feelings [an online-travel guide to find out all the things New York has to offer, covered throughout the eyes of local New Yorkers] for the creation. Check Out this fun video re-cap of the event created by New York City Feelings’ Shiseido Ruiz. This was my first time interviewing in front of a camera ☺ Obviously I was very nervous, but the energy and excitement within the room made all those nervous feeling somehow disappeared. Thank You Shiseido for pushing me to get out of my comfort zone.