Welcome back to the blog, folks! Cari Faye here, your local Casper, Wyoming photographer, back with another inside look, into something special….the dazzling world of fashion. This time, I had the absolute pleasure of capturing behind-the-scenes magic at Denver Fashion Week, featuring none other than the incredibly talented Ari Burback, the mastermind and CEO of Garms 1 of 1, a sustainable fashion line. For those who don’t know, Ari isn’t just a fashion designer; she’s also a cornerstone of my studio, assisting me in bringing visual stories to life through videography. If you’ve done a shoot with me in the past two years, chances are, you’ve met this gem. This is part one of a two-part series dedicated to her debut at Denver Fashion Week.

Garms 1 of 1: Sustainable, Unique, and Utterly Show-Stopping

Ari is the visionary behind the Casper-based fashion label, Garms 1 of 1. Her approach is refreshingly unique, creating one-off pieces that not only push the boundaries of design but also advocate for sustainability in fashion. This commitment was on full display at Denver Fashion Week, where she debuted her latest collection, a vibrant testament to her creative drive and dedication to the art of fashion.

The Whirlwind Before the Calm

Before the runway lights dazzled and the models strutted, the real spectacle was backstage. It was a whirlwind of activity, where chaos meets beauty in an extraordinary dance of preparation. Designers, models, makeup artists, and assistants all meshed in a flurry of activity. In the midst of this creative storm, Ari was a standout—meticulously putting the final touches on each model’s outfit, ensuring every seam, fold, and accessory was perfect.

Ari and Mariah: A Dynamic Duo

Amidst the controlled chaos, it was hard to miss the dynamic duo of Ari and her assistant, Mariah. Their collaboration was a sight to behold—two creative forces in perfect sync. Mariah played a crucial role, not just in assisting Ari but in embodying the spirit of teamwork that is often the unsung hero in such high-stress environments. The photo I captured of them together perfectly encapsulates this—it’s not just cute, it’s powerful.

A Style All Her Own

Ari’s collection screamed punk meets 90s grunge with a hint of sophistication—a blend that’s as intriguing as it sounds. Think leather and denim, crafted in muted tones that somehow speak louder than the brightest colors. Each piece not only reflects Ari’s unique artistic vision but also her commitment to challenging the norms of fashion design.

Why This Matters

In a world increasingly aware of the impacts of fast fashion, designers like my dear Ari are leading the charge in sustainable fashion. It’s about more than just style; it’s about making a statement and making it last. As I captured these moments before the show, it was evident that every stitch and every choice was deliberate, thoughtful, and aimed at making the fashion world a better place. I could not be more proud of Ari. I have had the pleasure of watching her grow over the past two years, and last night was a rush of emotions. Ari and I’s relationship is that of a big sis/lil sis, and to know Ari is to love her. Ari, congratulations, you will go so far in life. “I’m so high, I could tough the sky”.

Stay tuned for part two of this blog series, where we’ll dive into the runway show itself, exploring how Ari’s designs came to life on the catwalk and the reactions that followed. For now, head over to Ari’s Instagram at Garms 1 of 1 to get a glimpse of her incredible work.

Until next time, keep finding beauty in the chaos!

-Cari Faye