West Meets East: Prabal Gurung Dazzles at the Symphony Fashion Show

One of Nashville’s most eagerly anticipated fashion events of the year returned to the Schermerhorn Symphony Center on a sunny evening in late April. Presented by Gus Mayer, The Symphony Fashion Show — which benefits the Nashville Symphony and their mission — showcases a different high-fashion designer each year. This year’s designer was Prabal Gurung. Co-chairs Tracy Frist and Emily Humphreys worked with event designer Bruce Pittman to set the stage for the stunning event. Each design element was a specific and thoughtful nod to Prabal’s life. The lining in the Patrons Party invitation was the pattern on the cover of Prabal’s coffee-table book, and as guests entered the fashion show, they encountered a beautiful pagoda.

Prabal was born in Singapore and raised in Nepal. After design school, he went on to further his education at the Pratt School of Design, where he interned for fashion icon Donna Karan. He went on to work for global lifestyle brand Cynthia Rowley. Prabal then served as design director for Bill Blass before launching his own label in 2009. Prabal brings dynamic vision to his designs and uses his platform as his megaphone to help advocate for social justice. 

The evening began with cocktails in the Schermerhorn’s West Atrium as guests flowed into the courtyard. The fashion-forward crowd enjoyed Champagne and specialty cocktails as hors d’oeuvres were passed on silver trays. Executive chair Sandra Lipman ensured all had a wonderful time. The Symphony Fashion Show is known as one of the best people-watching events of the year, and this year was no exception. The reception was a parade of fashion on full display, with some guests opting for designs by Prabal and others donning chic looks by other top designers. 

After the reception, guests moved into Laura Turner Concert Hall for the main event. As the lights lowered, the evening’s emcees Kelleigh Bannen and Colson Horton took the stage to welcome guests and speak on the importance of the evening. The Nashville Symphony is an established leader in arts communities. Notable Symphony programs include Music in My Neighborhood, Young People’s Concerts, and the Accelerando program, providing professional performance, educational and career opportunities for students from underrepresented communities in American orchestras. 

After a short video highlighting the Accelerando program, the lights dimmed and the fashion show began. As models moved down the catwalk, the stylish crowd applauded favorite pieces and new designs. This particular season, Prabal focused on merging traditional eastern garments with western lines, creating absolutely stunning pieces that will soon likely be seen at future top events in Music City. During the entire evening Prabal was gracious, taking time to have his picture taken with anyone who asked, visiting with guests and answering questions. The same was true after the show concluded. He walked the entire catwalk as an act of acknowledgement to all in the crowd. After the show concluded, CMA’s reigning Vocal Duo of the Year — Brothers Osborne — took the stage and performed hit songs with energy. The duo had guests up out of their chairs, dancing and clapping along. It was a night to remember.