Layla K., CEO of the Couture Connoisseur Network, and founder of Haute.Lanta Fashion Week, wore many hats during the week, as both designer and director. After the opening night, we found a brief moment to talk about the experience and the future of Fashion in Atlanta.
C.Nicole - So Layla, what was the inspiration for Haute.Lanta Fashion Week? How did you come up with such a big concept?
Layla K - It was only two weeks after I’d moved from Oakland that I thought it up, almost dreamed it. I was sitting in Centennial Park, and it just came to me. I wanted to do something big in Atlanta, attracting the type of exposure of high fashion events I’d done in California. After that, I put the thoughts into action.
C.Nicole - Tell me about year one. How was it different than this year’s show?
Layla K - Year one was much larger. International and national designers showed their work, and it all was done on a bigger scale. I knew this year I needed to pull back a little, because I am doing a lot of it on my own.
C.Nicole - I understand that struggle. Wanting to fully realize the potential of the idea, and having to downsize it until the resources are available. What do you want for this project? What’s your vision for Haute.Lanta Fashion Week?
Layla K - Getting big! Blowing up! I’m looking for someone to invest in me, and take this show to the next level.
October 2008
