Glamour Meets Giving: Indie Fashion Show Returns with Glamorous Annual Charity All White Gala at LCA on August 22 – The Michigan Chronicle

Image courtesy of Indie Fashion

Prepare to be dazzled by Detroit’s fashion scene on Thursday, August 22, as the Indie Fashion Show makes a stylish return with a unique twist—the Charity ALL White Gala. Hosted at the iconic Little Caesars Arena (LCA), this highly anticipated event promises a night of cutting-edge designs, glamour, and philanthropy, all set against the vibrant backdrop of the Motor City.

Indie Fashion, established by Daishawn Franklin and Mercedes Gillard, initially began as a boutique in Detroit, exclusively showcasing independent clothing brands. Over time, it has evolved into a fully-fledged fashion production, organizing shows that travel nationwide and collaborating with diverse brands from around the globe.

Image courtesy of Indie Fashion

“20 years of me doing fashion shows here (Detroit) and all over the country, and I see the quality of the models, the quality of the designers, the stylists, it’s taken seriously here, and part of that is due to growth,” Franklin said.

“That’s why we went to Little Caesars Arena; I feel like it was time for a bigger audience to see the work we’ve been doing.”

Indie Fashion represents more than just a typical fashion show; it is a vibrant national production company that drives the independent fashion industry. It takes great pride in its role as a robust platform for up-and-coming independent fashion labels and designers, solidifying its reputation as “The Heart of Independent Fashion.”

Indie Fashion’s mission transcends the runway of a fashion show. It is actively committed to promoting opportunities for minority-owned businesses within the fashion industry, creating a clear path for these businesses to thrive in retail.

“The whole purpose of Indie is to bring light to those brands that don’t traditionally get shine, and to be able to take the show to LCA brings a different light to it.”

“Of course, we’ll get our core audience, but this gives an opportunity for people who may not have been introduced to Indie and the independent brands we represent; they’ve never seen them. So here’s the opportunity for some first-timers to see the real talent right here,” Frankin explained.

Indie Fashion is dedicated to empowering independent designers by offering them a versatile platform that effectively launches their creations from the glamour of the runway to the accessibility of retail shelves.

Franklin noticed a significant absence of diversity in the fashion industry and decided to address this issue. His initiatives went beyond just the models on the catwalk; he also advocated for inclusivity among designers and stylists, especially those from diverse backgrounds.

Image courtesy of Indie Fashion

“Our platform is for all; it’s inclusive, and being able to provide this platform is a big deal for people that look like us.”

Franklin is recognized for his captivating runway shows, remarkable partnerships with local artists, and dedication to nurturing up-and-coming designers within the community. He and his team work with young aspiring designers at Cass Technical High School and brands like Gucci, where students can meet with Gucci executives monthly. Some of whose designs will be featured in the upcoming show.

“Everything we do has something to do with the community,” Franklin said.

“We also teach fashion design curriculum. We currently partnered with the Boys and Girls Club, 18 fashion interns for whom we pay $15 an hour to learn fashion.”

The event’s proceeds will support the community-driven programs 501C3 S.I.G.H. and New Era Detroit, both of which are dedicated to making a positive impact in the Detroit area.

“I definitely stand on the shoulders of the brands (Ebony Fashion Fair) that came before what Indie is doing and being able to use our platform not only to bring awareness to fashion but also to be able to uplift and raise funds for organizations that are doing great things in the community,” Franklin said.

Franklin is thrilled for everyone involved in Indie, both behind the scenes, new designers, stylists, models, and participants, as they all deserve to be part of this fashion platform.

“I want to change how people look at fashion in Detroit. I want to change that narrative so that Detroit fashion is respected and admired like fashion in other big cities,” Franklin said.

“When people think of and say fashion in Detroit, people will know it’s quality.”

Indie Fashion Show Detroit edition-Charity All White Gala
Thursday, August 22 2024
Little Caesars Arena | Chevy Plaza
Attire: ALL WHITE

5:30 pm Indie Fashion Kids
6:30pm Emerging Designer Showcase
7:30pm The Fashion Statement
9:00pm Independent Designer Showcase

Tickets and information can be found by visiting www.INDIEFASH.com

About Post Author

Amber Ogden, Staff Writer

Amber Ogden, a native of Detroit, is an experienced journalist with investigative reporting, feature writing, and multimedia storytelling skills. She covers various topics related to the Black community, from human interest stories to racial injustices to community happenings. Amber is currently a staff writer and can be reached via email at [email protected].