Nassau, Bahamas - Islands of the World Fashion Week night two had another packed house at the British Colonial Hilton on Bay Street.  Fashion Week, where the styles of the island nations converge on The Bahamas to local appreciative audiences who are anxious for the experience of runway, beauty, poise and pizazz.  First timers leave in awe of the world of illusion, colour, fabrics, music, bodies and walk. The Bahamas Weekly News Team is pleased to present the flash slide-show comprising over 300 images shot by photographer Ricardo Saint CYR .

The special feature for Runway 2 was the "In Search of the Next Oscar" hosted by designer, Nick Verreos. This is not the Academy Awards 'Oscar' but the next 'Oscar de la Renta'. This competition is to recognize and honour the island-based designer whose collection reflects a cohesive meeting point between ready-to-wear and Haute Couture. Competing were Raynelis Howell of Turks & Caicos, and Georgina Estherr of Dominican Republic. Judges for the competition were Jay McCarroll, Simon Collins and Louis Sarmiento. The winner will be announced at the awards presentation on final night.

The who's who of Nassau were out along with special guests such as the Ambassador of the Republic of Haiti Antonio Rodrigue , and centenarian Christopher Eve of Myerstown, Pennsylvania. Attendees received free CD's of the official soundtrack for Fashion Week 2010; “Islands of the World Fashion Week CD Vol:1— a mix of trendy house, pop, and techno sounds from around the world, inclusive of pieces from local talents like TaDa and Sketch.

Bahamian designer also featured in Runway 2 is Theodore Elyett, winner of the Runway to Fashion Week competition prior to the big event. Photo courtesy of Lamon Bethel, IWFW

Bahamian Theodore Elyett's designs hit the runway to applause and were greatly received. The known pageant coordinator was seen in a new light as an up and coming fashion designer. One of his pieces is featured on the cover of this year's program.  His current line has an Asian influence.

Philippine designer Oliver Tolentino walks out to a standing ovation with his muse. Photo: Ricardo Saint

Visiting guest designer, Oliver Tolentino of the Philippines amazed the audience with his never-ending flawless and exceptionally beautiful show-stopping pieces. Rich fabrics made locally in his country of abaca, piña and raw silk cocoon . His beautiful muse wore his clothes as if they were an extra layer of her own skin.  The audience was on its feet by the time Tolentino walked the runway.

International Fashion Designer, Indashio (middle, adorned in pink feathering), hits the runway with models during the IWFW Runway 2 showcase. Indashio credits New York City "club kids" as being his inspiration behind the collection. Photo courtesy of Lamon Bethel,IWFW

Pumping up the audience after the breathtaking beauty of Tolentino were the designs of Indashio of the USA with his very fun, bright (neon's) and energetic line.  Having the audience in giggles and cheers, out came  Indashio himself bouncing down the runway in and a dress with black heavy sneakers and makeup gone wrong, but you could not deny, that this young man loves what he does and is a character to be recognized in the fashion industry.

Don't miss final night, Runway 3 of Fashion Week, which will be extra special  with "Fashion Cares for Haiti: The Relief Benefit Show, featuring Haitian designers. Awards will be given out after the runway for the NextGen, The Next Oscar, Eco & Cultural Fashion, and Seals of Excellence. The show starts at 7pm.

(Photos) Islands of the World Fashion Week 2010 Opening Night

(Photos) Islands of the World Fashion Week, Runway 3 and 2010 Awards Presentations

One of this year's judges, Simon Collins along with host and designer Nick Verreos. Photo: Lamon Bethel, IWFW

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