On the evening of April 28, 2017, the DC Fashion Foundation and DC Fashion Incubator welcomed 350 guests to our New/NEXT Fashion Showcase. Hosted at the hip and colorful Blind Whino Southwest Arts Club, this night of fashion and philanthropy featured a runway show with six designer collections, pop-up boutique shops, and premium giveaways from generous sponsors.
Stylish VIP guests pose at the New/NEXT Fashion Showcase, against the colorful backdrop of the Blind Whino Southwest Arts Club.
Models wowed the audience in an eclectic mix of clothing from six designer collections, including Andrew Nowell Menswear, Pearlina Designs, Belle Flowers Designs, Thomas Massanier, Elegant Erkel Neckwear, and Amanda Casarez. Across the collections, there seemed to be a look for everyone. An elegant evening gown for a mature woman, an edgy modern-city-meets-the-Wild-West ensemble for a daring man, and an ethereal knee-length dress for the dreamers among us were just a few of the varied works on display. In addition to collections on the runway, multiple designers offered their pieces in a pop-up boutique, where guests could spot and walk away with additions to their spring and summer wardrobe.
When not taking in the fashions on the runway, guests enjoyed a special selection of hors d’ouevres from Capital Kitchen Catering and premium custom cocktails by Beam Suntory. The crowd’s colorful outfits rivaled the bright setting.
Ultimately, the night’s fun added up to a meaningful contribution to local designers. The New/NEXT Fashion Showcase raised over $10,000, which the DC Fashion Foundation and DC Fashion Incubator will use to renovate their space so that designers have the atmosphere and resources needed to continue becoming fashion’s leading figures in the nation’s capital.
The DC Fashion Foundation and DC Fashion Incubator would like to give a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors, without whom this night would not have been as fabulous — or even possible:
Beam Suntory
Blind Whino Southwest Arts Club
Capital Kitchen Catering
Dept. of Commerce, International Trade Association
Dept. of Housing and Community Development
La Roche-Posay
Makeup America!
Macy’s
Olivia Rose
Paul’s Wine and Spirits
Premier Bank
We also thank our Chairs, Karen Maria Alston and Marvin Bowser, as well as our Host Committee members.