Columbus

2015 Fashion Week in the Capital City

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It happened in Columbus, Ohio! The sixth annual Columbus Fashion Week took place at the Columbus Athenaeum. Hosting both a Wedding Runway Show, as well as the grand Finale Runway Show, Columbus Fashion week did not disappoint. Founder and Executive Director Tommy McClure, along with his team of talented board members, designers, models, and production crew crafted an unforgettable event hosted in the Capital City.

Approachable and friendly, Tommy readily shares his passion for Columbus Fashion Week as “Fashion with a heart”. Columbus Fashion Week is a non-profit organization which hosts philanthropic events throughout the week. Proceeds are used to award a scholarship to a deserving student pursuing a degree in fashion.

Tommy eagerly shared what was new to this year’s show. This year the Finale Runway Show boasted two celebrity headliners. Celebrity stylist Stevie Boi opened the show, while veteran stylist David Tupaz completed a perfect night of fashion. Folded betwixt the two, local Columbus talent seasoned the runway with plentiful looks for those who love style.

Celebrity stylist Stevie Boi swooped into Columbus adding energy and excitement to the runway. Known for his eyewear worn by Lady Gaga, as well as styling famous celebrities such as Beyoncé, Stevie Boi showcased his Spring/Summer 2016 collection on the Columbus Runway. His combination of classic black and white popped with lively accessories. He ended his runway collection with a model sporting a white leotard, elaborately studded motorcycle jacket, and sleek eyewear. This cutting edge look opened the show with a bang!

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Celebrity Stylist David Tupaz joined the week long events sharing wisdom and insight to inspire those in the industry. A sage of fashion in his own right, David rounded out the Runway Finale with stunning glamour. David’s vintage Hollywood style dazzled the runway with elaborate gowns, and plush ready to wear attire. Not only did he incorporate black and white into his designs he effectively presented refreshing florals using opulent fabric and vibrant color.

Black and white with splashes of red, emerged as a prominent theme among designers. Prissy Duck incorporated a black and white houndstooth printed cape which also doubled as a chic hood complementing a classic red dress with houndstooth cuffs. On the other hand, designer Kevin Black opened with white as his color of choice for his elegant dresses featuring breezy fabrics reminiscent of warmer weather. Genoveva Christoff caught onlookers attention with her signature laser cut leather. Using a more jeweled toned palette paired with black and her laser cut designs, Genoveva charged the runway with her collection. Lubna Designs is known for flowing fabric with graceful movement and beautiful lace overlays. Lubna did not disappoint onlookers using her signature overlay to add a special touch to a classic silhouette. Kelley Elyse Designs used neoprene to present cutting edge style. Designer Kelley Plas of Kelly Elyse Designs, creatively structured ready to wear neoprene garments also in black and white. New to the runway, Tamara Holder presented a unique aesthetic using burlap as the fabric of choice for her resort collection. Celebration of her island heritage translated into cool yet chic island wear.

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The Wedding Runway Show successfully set the tone on Thursday evening for the upcoming Runway Finale Show. The Wedding Show opened with an engaging video conveying this year’s theme, “The Evolution of Marriage”. Board Member Renard Green shared the concept from a historical perspective beginning in the Garden of Eden, moving to the Emancipation Proclamation, advancing to the legalization of interracial marriage, finally evolving to the legalization of same sex marriage. Renard added that this year’s show illuminated emerging trends of more color, pattern, and coordinating his and hers bridal attire.

Additionally, Style Director, Nia Noelle shared what would be different about this year’s Wedding Runway Show. The Runway itself was a refreshing change. Curving through the crowd, there was not a bad seat in the house. Everyone was able to get a closer look at the gorgeous fashions as models strolled and strutted along the petal clad runway. Nia shared the diversity of styles in the show which included bridal gowns designed in denim by Melissa Koch.

The Bridal Show opened with adorable flower girls lining the runway with red petals, followed by a darling little boy and little girl, hands clasped walking the runway. Next, the designers showcased their collections for Spring/Summer 2016. This year’s show included exclusive menswear from Persona as well as The Bespoken Mogul. Furthermore, Lubna Designs gave us a taste of her first ever menswear collection. Persona men were clad in its signature colorful patterned jackets with classic lines. Designer Zuri Greer refers to his collections as “non-traditional, traditional”. Persona pushes the envelope in men’s suiting by incorporating floral and paisley design to attract the man who desires a more cutting edge aesthetic. On the other hand The Bespoken Mogul incorporated more traditional fits and patterns while using color to showcase the collection. Finally, Lubna Designs sprinkled in a more casual look for men preparing for their big day.

Designer Joan Madison of Joan’s Bridal Couture stood out with her dramatic caped gown and bridal pant suit. Sporting beautifully line fabric, Joan’s collection charged the air with excitement! Gasps and claps were the response encountered as each model swept the runway.
The caped gown was presented in cream with a rich satiny lining. Embellished around the shoulder and collarbone only, Joan showed how simple elegance makes an impact. Joan captivated onlookers with her textured bridal pantsuit. At first glance the attire appeared to be the traditional bridal wear, however, upon closer inspection it became evident that the attire was a pant.

Columbus Fashion Week was an exhilarating week filled with fashion. Founder and Executive Director Tommy McClure shared that Columbus is still making a mark in the fashion industry. Moreover, Columbus Fashion Week is gaining a foothold in the fashion industry as it continues to foster creativity and infuse style into the landscape of Columbus, Ohio.

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Leasa Simmons has worked for a local public school program in Columbus for over 20 years. She is also co-owner of LEC Concierge. Leasa's most recent endeavor includes launching A Bombshell Style Blog for plus size women over 40 and becoming an associate writer for IL Moda PR. You can look foward to her events and foodie writing!

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