Miami came alive this past week as artists and fashionistas flocked to the city for the memorable annual art and culture affair Art Basel. Among the week's most talked about events was Highest on the Runway's latest show, this year aptly themed "Reefer Madness," which was held on December 8th at the iconic Skatebird Miami venue during Terp Basel 2023. True to its name, the trailblazing platform made history as the first fashion show to allow cannabis consumption by models on the catwalk. Directed by founder Cristina Plinio (CRISP), the show shined an especially bright spotlight on up-and-coming designer Reagan Bailey and her avant-garde label IKONOKLASTA.

At just 22 years old, Bailey has made major waves with her boundary-pushing designs since first learning to operate a sewing machine. After winning her fashion program's graduation competition in April and later showing a collection at New York Fashion Week via the FDLA in September, the driven creative was hand-selected by Plinio to be featured at the magazine's annual Art Basel showcase. Bailey eagerly spent two months channeling her passion into a showstopping lineup of 20 original looks befitting of the theme.

When asked about her inspiration, Bailey explained, "I knew from when I was seven years old that I wanted to be a fashion designer. I've always dressed differently than other kids, mixing men's and women's pieces and playing with shapes and fabrics. Thrifting gave me an appreciation for one-of-a-kind items. My goal as a designer is to make people feel powerful. I never stick to one style or follow trends—and that's what I want for my brand, too."

Bailey said that the rapidly changing nature of fashion trends does not align with her creative ethos. "IKONOKLASTA doesn't follow fast fashion trends because our brand is here to stay," she asserted. "We create versatile, timeless pieces that make our customers feel good from within. If you genuinely love something, you should wear it regardless of whether some influencer told you it was on-trend last season."

This defiant attitude toward the establishment and emphasis on authentic self-expression is fitting for a show centered around marijuana culture and its fight for mainstream acceptance. Bailey recognizes the parallels, facing her share of naysayers questioning her refusal to conform. However, she believes staying true to her multifaceted design tastes makes IKONOKLASTA distinctive. "Fashion identity nowadays is more fluid than ever," she commented. "My generation doesn't want to be put in a box. We choose based on what we're drawn to now, not what brands dictate we should buy that week."

Plinio founded Highest on the Runway to shift perceptions and break new ground. Having the models openly consume cannabis products as they strut the catwalk makes a bold statement, as did featuring Bailey's boundary-defying collection. Still a student less than a year ago, her selection for such a high-profile event speaks volumes about her prodigious talent and barrier-breaking vision.

When envisioning her future aspirations, Bailey sets the bar high. "I want to become a creative director at iconic houses like Alexander McQueen and push my creative limits designing for different audiences," she revealed. "I also aim to build my brand into a thriving business that gives other young talents a platform. And, of course, I intend to dress A-list stars and create looks for the Met Gala someday!"

With the drive, originality, and focus she has displayed so far, there is no doubt Bailey will continue making major waves in the industry. Her star shone brightly at Highest on the Runway, an event that continues to push boundaries and shape perceptions at the intersection of weed, fashion, and culture. Those lucky enough to have witnessed this young visionary's breakout moment can say they saw her skyrocketing career first spark to life.

The success of Highest on the Runway resulted from the collaborative efforts of talented individuals and partners. Aurora Photography By Sage's (@auroraphotographybysage) striking and captivating photographs captured the show's essence, immortalizing the moments that defined this spectacular event. The show's direction was expertly handled by Cristina Plinio, the founder of Gastronomy Magazine (@gas.tronomy) and Highest on the Runway (@highestontherunway), whose vision and leadership were instrumental in bringing this event to life. And the show was hosted by @terpbasel, @certifiedbaked, and @skatebird305.

The art direction and casting by Havanna Stigale (@havannaaa) added a layer of creative depth to the show. At the same time, the custom-designed, cannabis-friendly shoes and accessories by Angelique Miami (@angelique_miami) provided a unique touch, blending fashion with the cannabis theme seamlessly. The exquisite jewelry pieces by Baked Gear (@bakedgearllc) complemented the outfits, adding sparkle to the runway.

The models embody the show's spirit, smoked herbal blends by Blue Mystic’s Mystic Thrift (@_bluemystic @mysticthrift), enhancing the event's ambiance. The opening looks were provided by Fifty Karats & HALOE Blu, in collaboration with By Crisp Shop (@fiftykarats @haloe.blu @bycrispshop), setting the tone for the evening's fashion narrative.

The show's beauty aspects were under the capable hands of key hair stylist Latto Method (@lattomethod), assisted by Julian Montoya (@julianmontoyabflab), and the key makeup team led by Brazil Raine (@brazil.raine, www.brazilraine.com), Michelle Venta (@skinforwardartistry, www.skinforwardartistry.com), and Lily Clemente (@makeupbylilyclemente). Their assistants, Olive Skies (@creativemakeupbyoliveskies) & Lauren Conner (@glamby.ren), along with stylists Kyra Smith (@kyr1ta) and Amber Escarza (@amberescarza), played crucial roles in bringing the envisioned looks to life. 

The set design, featuring real hemp plants by South Tip (@southtiphemp) and live art by The Heart Hatter (@thehearthatter), created an immersive experience, transforming the runway into a canvas of artistic expression. The auditory backdrop to this visual feast was the runway music produced by Troy Bailey (@prodbailey), with DJ Hi Ricky (@hii.rickyy) setting the mood for the night.

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