On May 6, 2024, Little Rock’s creative scene was elevated to new heights with “Revival: An Evening of Art and Fashion,” an immersive, invitation-only event hosted by local creatives and philanthropists Cat Sims, Sarah Oden, and Kimberly Cyr at Jill White Designs. The evening beautifully showcased the vibrant talents of local fashion designers and artists, making a lasting impression on attendees and setting a new standard for artistic events in the city.
Guests were treated to an enchanting fusion of fashion and art, inspired by the glamour of this year’s Met Gala theme, “Garden of Time,” and the motif of “Reawakening Fashion.” The event was designed to immerse attendees in an ambiance where the past and present converged, highlighting the creativity and diversity of Little Rock’s artistic community. Adding to the excitement, the venue featured a live projection of the real Met Gala happening simultaneously, allowing guests to experience both events in unison and feel connected to the larger fashion world in real time.
“In curating the fashion for ‘Revival: An Evening of Art and Fashion,’ I aimed to create an immersive experience reminiscent of the Met Gala’s extravagant themes,” remarked Kimberly Cyr, host and wardrobe stylist for the event. “Fashion has the power to evoke emotions and tell stories, and on Gala night, it was inspiring to witness guests embracing their individuality and expressing themselves through their attire. Encouraging people to step outside the norm and embrace their true selves is what makes styling such a fulfilling endeavor.”
The fashion aspect of the event was a standout, with local jewelry designers and fashion designers collaborating to create looks and showcases that resonated with the event’s theme and inspired a sense of timeless elegance. Designs by Korto Momolu and Souq graced the live models, while OFaolain’s handbags and jewelry by Lydia Elsa Martin and Laura B Luxury added a touch of sophistication and artistry. The carefully curated outfits aimed to evoke powerful emotions and tell unique stories, encouraging guests to embrace their individuality and think beyond conventional norms.
The evening’s artistic offerings were equally impressive, featuring thought-provoking works by Stephen Wilson Studio, Alecia Walls-Barton, Kvinna Studio, Jaird Art, and Hannah Hill Art. Each piece was thoughtfully selected to complement the fashion highlights, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for attendees.
Enhancing the enchanting ambiance of the evening, Tanarah Luxe Floral imbued the event with distinctive elegance. TLF’s curated design elements, thoughtfully chosen in collaboration with the design team, complemented the theme and embellished the space with opulence and refinement. As floral artisans, TLF delighted attendees with the next-level arrangements they are known for, infusing the event with vibrant bursts of color and natural beauty, and contributing to the overall artistic theme.
DJ Jellybean provided a lively soundtrack, and Central Arkansas Entertainment provided production elements including a glossy, vinyl red carpet entryway often seen at high-profile events in Hollywood and New York, replacing traditional fabric red carpets with sleek, modern elegance. Lori Sparkman, a local and internationally-recognized photographer, captured the evening’s unforgettable moments, while Weaver Films documented the entire event on film, aiming to create a comprehensive library of reels to showcase the vibrant atmosphere and highlights of the night.
As the evening unfolded, Vibrant Occasions treated guests to an artistic culinary experience that tantalized the taste buds and delighted the senses. The festivities began with two delectable stations, each offering an array of gourmet delights. At the mozzarella caprese station, guests indulged in freshly made mozzarella cheese, paired perfectly with succulent heirloom tomatoes, fragrant basil pesto, drizzles of balsamic vinegar, and crisp, toasted crostini. Meanwhile, at the cheese wheel station, a spectacle unfolded as a wheel of parmesan cheese was set ablaze with alcohol, creating a molten pool of cheese perfection. Tender cheese tortellini bathed in a luxurious truffle cream sauce were then lovingly coated in the melted cheese. As the evening progressed, new stations emerged, including a donut flambé station where sweet treats were set ablaze and an iced coffee station where guests could cool off with refreshing beverages. Each dish was crafted with precision and flair, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the already glamorous affair.
Feedback from guests was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing how seen and heard they felt during the event. The diversity of talent showcased and the inclusive atmosphere created a space where everyone could feel inspired and appreciated.
While “Revival: An Evening of Art and Fashion” primarily celebrated local artistry and design, it also embraced a philanthropic spirit by supporting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The hosts, along with generous sponsors, ensured that the event not only highlighted creative talent but also contributed to a meaningful cause. This blend of art, fashion, and philanthropy underscored the event’s commitment to making a positive impact in the community.
The success of “Revival: An Evening of Art and Fashion” has already sparked excitement for next year’s event. Plans are underway to make it even more spectacular, continuing the tradition of celebrating Little Rock’s rich creative landscape. For those interested in being part of this exclusive event, reaching out to the hosts is the first step to securing a coveted spot on the guest list. As the event continues to grow and evolve, it serves as a tribute to the creativity, diversity, and philanthropic spirit of Little Rock’s vibrant fashion and arts community.
Hosts and Sponsors
Host & Philanthropy Coordinator: Cat Sims @catsimsxoxo
Host & Wardrobe Stylist: Kimberly Cyr @kimberlycyr
Host & Creative Coordinator: Sarah Oden @sarahoden_photo
Catering: Vibrant Occasions @vibrantoccasionscatering
Venue: Jill White Designs @jillwhitedesigns
Bar: Have Bar Will Travel @havbarwilltrvl
Alcohol: De Nux Distributor @de_nux and So Restaurant + Bar @so_restaurantlr
Photographer: Lori Sparkman Photography @lorisparkmanphotography
Planner: Meredith Events @meredithevents
Public Relations: Meredith Corning PR @meredithcorningpr
Floral Designer: Tanarah Luxe Floral @tanarahluxefloral
Production and DJ: Central Arkansas Entertainment @cae_lr and DJ JellyBean @djjbean
Rentals: Mack 365 Designs @mack365designs_
Videography: Weaver Films @weaverfilms
Model Agency: AVA Model Management @avamgmt
Stylist Assistant: Alexa Hart @alexa_hart_
Fashion Participants
Fashion Contributor: B.Barnett @bbarnettlr
Fashion Designer: Korto Momolu @kortomomolu
Fashion Designer: Souq @souq.studio
Handbag Designer: OFaolain @ofaolainleather
Jewelry Designer: Lydia Elsa Martin @lydiaelsamartin
Jewelry Designer: Laura B Luxury @laurabluxury
Artists
Stephen Wilson Studio @stephenwilsonstudio, Alecia Walls-Barton
@pressedflowergal, Kvinna Studio @kvinna_studio, Jaird Art @jairdart, Hannah Hill Art @hannahhillcreations
Models:
@catsimsxoxo, @kimberlycyr, @sarahoden_photos, @andi_k_chappell, @iambeauticurve, @beautyandthe.belle, @dlizzzzzz, @celestejoliee, @javonwallace_, @erica_watkins
