Recap of Chingona Soles: A First-Friday Shoe Show at Luna Culture Lab

By Editor April 7, 2016 11:00

By: Rosa Cardenas, Blush Boutique

I can’t concentrate in flats! – Victoria Beckham

On April 1st, I had the opportunity to put on a shoe show for Chingona Soles by Luna Culture Lab and TMC Communications. Chingona Soles is an event that celebrates women in a very unique way. There is a stiletto given to an artist (or anyone who wanted to be creative and design a stiletto), symbolizing the uniqueness in each woman and the different styles we each have. The stiletto is then auctioned off and the proceeds are given to a local organization that gives back to the community. The Women of Phoenix was the organization of choice this year.

The inspiration behind the shoe show was Frida Kahlo – one of the greatest, most controversial female Mexican painters. Her iconic style is an inspiration to fashion; from her traditional braids and the flowers in her hair, to her bold, colorful style. Frida had such a strong presence and an undeniable determination. She was a true trailblazer for Latino women. If you haven’t heard of Frida Kahlo, do yourself a favor and read her story.

Through the planning process of Chingona Soles, I had the great pleasure of working closely with OZEA Models. I was impressed by the professionalism of the company and their models. I began to realize how important it was to give the recognition to the team that makes things happen on the runway – aside from just the designer.

Alex and Cesar Aguire founded OZEA Productions in May of 2003. They began in radio and TV, and originally had no plans on adding a modeling part to their business. It wasn’t until 2007 that Cesar saw the need to start OZEA Models. It was clear to Cesar, that with his background as a photographer, it was important to create an addition to his growing company. OZEA Models was created for the sole purpose of preparing the models for photo shoots and fashion shows while keeping the models grounded. Through their collaboration with the Phoenix Children’s Project, I saw how important it was to them to create beautiful professional models, while encouraging them to give back to their community.

Andrea Perez joined the OZEA family in 2014, bringing her vast experience in high fashion design and modeling. Andrea is the head instructor for OZEA Models and works closely with the models and the designers or boutiques to help bring life to their vision. Andrea appreciates the diversity that fashion has adopted; and with this breakthrough of local designers creating fashion for real woman, the industry in Phoenix is only going to grow.

If you have any questions contact Andrea Perez at stylewithaheart@gmail.com

This article is a contribution by Rosangelica Cardenas, owner of Blush Boutique in Phoenix. Blush Boutique offers women’s apparel, shoes and accessories in unique styles suitable for any age. You can visit their official website at www.blushboutiqueaz.com, email them at blushboutiqueaz@yahoo.com or call 602.579.8725.