On Tuesday, September 19th, FLY Fashion Loves You hosted their first event of the Fall 2017 semester. The Florence University of the Arts school of fashion, also known as FAST: Fashion and Accessory Studies and Technology, collaborated with other programs to produce the Gypsy Caravan.
At first glance, FLY is another trendy store front, but once you enter you are surrounded by a world of emerging fashion. The consignment shop is operated by students in many different ways. Student interns manage the store and design students create pieces that are sometimes sold in the store. It is a great way for students to gain professional and authentic experience as well as interact with the Florence community.
The Tuesday night apertivo was a very unique experience. The store was very bright and filled with a wide array of people, many of whom were students. The attendees were all very fashionably dressed, not surprising for an event hosted by the fashion students. Upon entering the store guests were able to browse through the racks of clothes while making their way to the courtyard. One room was filled with wine and refreshments as well as small snacks and finger-foods. Despite the rainy and overcast day, it was a beautiful night to spend in the courtyard of FLY. The courtyard was dimly lit with strands of Christmas lights and colorful streamers. There was a two piece band comprised of an accordion player and a bass player. Throughout the night they filled the air with traditional folk music. The music was very lively and set the tone for the Gypsy Caravan theme.
Guests at the apertivo had the option of having their tarot cards read, very appropriate considering the history of tarot cards and their presence in the gypsy culture. They also could spend time in a classroom that was transformed into a colorful photo booth. One very notable aspect of the evening was the collaboration between the different schools of the university. Students of DIVA, FAST, and APICUS came together to create a beautiful evening for the rest of the university as well as native Florentines. The students who created the event did an impressive job with their interpretation of the Gypsy culture and provided a fun night for all who attended.
