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May 9, 2008 7:32 pm US/Eastern
Miami Looks To Attract The Big Names In Fashion
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
The economy may have everyone in Miami feeling down and out, but the Beacon Council is thinking more along the lines of 'up and strutting' the runway.
Representatives from the business group are on a trip to Milan, Italy to attract more designers to do business here. They want the European fashion industry to set up shop in our city, and build a similar fashion district here.
"What has to happen is certainly more companies that will come in, more designers will come in, more major names will come in, and perhaps will set up what we hope will be like showrooms," said Charlene Parsons, of the fashion program at Miami International University of Art and Design.
She says Miami and Miami Beach have already been laying the groundwork for this. Such is the case of the swimsuit association, which has moved the entire swimwear market to Miami Beach from New York.
And they're not the only ones. As a matter of fact, Russell Simmons debuted his recent spring collection in Miami, instead of in New York.
Local designer Julian Chang said he's pondered moving to New York but enjoys what Miami has to offer more.
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