‘I truly love this part of fashion’: Event at Publisher a model of success – Fredericksburg Free Press

A diverse fashion story was told Saturday evening at The Publisher, a new boutique hotel in downtown Fredericksburg.

Fredericksburg Virginia Fashion Week (FXBG VA FW) featured over 40 models ranging from school-aged children to adults gracing the runway before a crowd of roughly 150.

Latoya White, president of FXBG VA FW, and Vice President Allison Harper organized the seventh season of the annual event. White praised her staff and personally thanked the makeup artists, hairstylists, and nail technicians who contributed to the event’s success.

“It definitely exceeded my expectations, as I am my own hardest critic,” White said.

Designers Laini Inc., featured in Washington D.C. Fashion Week, and Bailey Creations, showcased in Colorado Fashion Week, had their dazzling fashion lines on full display for a large portion of the show.

Sofia De Hoyos, Senior Marketing Director of Rappahannock Goodwill, sat in the front row as FXBG VA FW models sported the Goodwill Industries clothing brand. Other brands like La’ Tour Leon, 4 Eva D.R.I.P., and Santor’a Clothing Boutique also added to the show with their unique designs.

DJ Hurrikane played captivating music as the models ripped the runway, while Dream Photo House of Baltimore and Laurel, Maryland, captured photos to document the occasion.

“The models had fun tonight, and they were very authentic while putting on a show,” White said.

Harper, who has been with FXBG VA FW since its inception, worked to ensure the event went smoothly. Before taking on the role of vice president, Harper was a model herself.

Harper arrived at The Publisher before 8 a.m. to organize decorations in the conference room and guided the beauty team upon their arrival. She also provided brunch, courtesy of Wegmans, for FXBG VA FW participants.

“It takes a lot to make a great fashion show, it literally started from sunup to sundown. I also coordinated the designer fittings and model rehearsal from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. before the show,” Harper said.

What truly touched Harper’s heart was when a young girl — initially scared to walk the runway — built up the courage to do so. The crowd gave her a standing ovation, and Harper said that, afterward, the girl told her that participating in the show boosted her confidence.

“I’m so excited about next year’s show because I have more creative control as vice president. I’m going to help groom these models with my modeling classes so they can use these skills anywhere,” Harper said.

At the conclusion of the show, White announced that model applications for season eight are open on fxbgfashionweek.com.

“I love the resources I have, and I love to grow them. I truly love this part of fashion,” White said.