Fashion Runway 40 Gala at San Diego Air & Space Museum

The Fashion Runway 40 Gala was presented by award-winning designer Ugochi Iwuaba on July 6 at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, Pan American Plaza. The hostess for the evening was Abena Akuaba who has been awarded prestigious titles such as Miss Grand International 2020 and Miss Grand USA ’20. Ugochi, who is a native of Nigeria, blends two cultures with the colorful, bold, and flamboyant styles of Nigeria and the mellow calmness of San Diego. It is a fusion of African and Western cultures.

This museum is located in one of the jewels of San Diego, Balboa Park. Surrounded by science, space, and aviation history, the fashion show began. The vibe was so upbeat and ready to rock with the planes as a backdrop in this iconic historic location. Iwuaba adds luxurious and opulent fabrics to create an amazing style. There were two entrances onto the runway, which were lined with eager spectators awaiting a look at the Runway 40 Collection. Both male and female models came down the catwalk and crisscrossed before exiting. This was marvelously choreographed by Maria Kucherenko. The styles fused both African and Western cultures for an extraordinary look.

I asked Iwuaba about the character that came down the runway at the end. She said, “This is the social masquerade from my tribe, the Igbo tribe, called Ada mma (beautiful maiden). It comes out during celebrations and it dances and sashays around. It’s customary for people to throw money at her as it supposedly brings good fortune, abundance, and blessings to the celebrants and their well-wishers. Throwing money during ceremonies is a way of giving to the celebrants and wishing them success and abundance.”

Iwuaba partnered with the San Diego City College Cosmetology Department for the hair and makeup. Their runway partner was American Modeling Academy.

Doctors told Iwuaba after she had a son with Down Syndrome that she wouldn’t be able to work full-time anymore. This is when she took up sewing and could work around her son’s needs. She began her ready-to-wear collection and signature couture style. She also creates custom wedding gowns. Proceeds from the show go to the Down Syndrome Association. For more information, visit ugochiiwuaba.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

June 7-Aug. 4: “A Splendid Decennium: Victorian to Vanguard” for featuring the art of Marty Ornish. This exhibit has been extended for three months at the Villa Montezuma Museum (villamontezumamuseum.org) on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Call or text 619-233-8833 for tour reservations.

Saturday, Aug. 17 – St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center to host “Couture” Haute with Heart Fashion and Luncheon at Hilton San Diego Bayfront starting at 10 a.m. For tickets: https://bit.ly/3Y2VyVJ.

Saturday, Aug. 17 – SB Fashion Week Runway Show and Vendor Market from 6:30-9 p.m. at 820 Island Ave. Small business pop-up shop and runway show featuring international brands. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3S86YUF.

Sunday, Sept. 8 – Fall in LOVE with Fashion: “Project Runway” designer Gordana Gehlhausen from 4-8 p.m. at 2919 Hill Valley Drive in Escondido to benefit Berry Good Food Foundation. Tickets: https://bit.ly/4ffIO4D.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the San Diego area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher, and blogger at DianaCavagnaro.com.