Celebrating Two Decades of Style in Florence
This past weekend, the charming city of Florence, Alabama came alive as it played host to the much-anticipated Shindig festival, marking a grand celebration for iconic fashion designer Billy Reid—a jubilee of food, fashion, art, and music spanning from October 11 to 13. After a five-year pause due to the pandemic, this year’s festival proved to be a delightful reunion for locals and fashion enthusiasts alike, all eager to partake in the festivities surrounding Reid’s 20 years in business.
A Grand Reunion of Fashion and Culture
Billy Reid founded the Shindig festival back in 2009, envisioning it as a thrilling way to unite fashion lovers from near and far in his lovely backyard nestled in the Shoals region. And come together they did! Attendees from bustling cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Austin mingled with friends and neighbors from Florence. It was impossible not to feel the rhythm of creative energy throughout the weekend.
A Culinary Delight
The celebration kicked off with a mouth-watering welcome dinner on Friday evening, where renowned chefs Sean Brock and Adam Evans showcased their innovative takes on Southern cuisine. Guests were treated to Southern staples that danced on the palate. Live music added to the enchantment with Matthew Houck, the Huntsville native behind the band Phosphorescent, serenading everyone with his ethereal sound. Following him was the rock duo The Kills, comprised of Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince, who turned up the volume and excitement for the night.
Brunch and Conversations
Saturday’s festivities began with a hearty brunch served upstairs at The Stricklin Hotel. With warm biscuits, rich pork gravy over grits, good ol’ sweet tea, and fresh coffee, festival-goers re-energized for a day packed with activities. Later, a lively discussion took place featuring Reid and renowned fashion figure Fern Mallis. Their conversation took listeners through the ups and downs of Reid’s illustrious career, revealing snippets of inspiration rooted in his childhood influences in Louisiana.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
It was another delightful surprise when attendees were offered private tours of the legendary Muscle Shoals Sound and Fame Studios, getting a taste of the rich musical heritage that has seen talents like Otis Redding and Aretha Franklin pass through its doors. Reid shared amusing anecdotes about his brother-in-law, an expert in all things Muscle Shoals, who shared stories behind classic records spun during the tours.
A Tailgate Party by the River
Saturday afternoon brought a laid-back tailgate party at McFarland Park with a casual vibe under the gentle pines by the Tennessee River. Attendees watched the Alabama vs. South Carolina game projected on a big screen while chefs Josh Quick and Bill Briand served a scrumptious menu—truly a day for relaxation and camaraderie.
Fashion Takes Center Stage
The highlight of the weekend was the grand 20th-anniversary runway show at the Shoals Theatre, where over thirty stunning looks highlighted Reid’s timeless aesthetic. Music was again a main attraction, with performances by Abraham Alexander and the folk duo Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlings, captivating attendees with their heartfelt songs.
A Family Affair
Reid’s family adorned the runway too, with his daughter Abba modeling one of the unique pieces, while his son Walton kept the energy alive at The Alley party later that night, with Billy himself joining in on guitar. As laughter and music filled the air, the party extended into the early hours, bringing together friends old and new for an unforgettable night.
A Fond Farewell
The festivities wrapped up on Sunday morning with a delightful brunch held at Odette’s. Festival-goers took one last stroll through the Court Street shop to snap up pieces they couldn’t resist. The Shindig festival is more than just a celebration of style—it’s a reminder of community, friendship, and the joy of coming together to embrace the best of food, fashion, and music.
As we conclude this remarkable event filled with love and creativity, one thing remains clear: the essence of Shindig will linger in the hearts of many, resonating with the art of connection and the style of friendship for years to come.
