It would have put any New York Fashion Week show to shame.
This isn't, after all, some sophisticated show at which celebrities and fashion journalists sit politely as deliberately blank-faced models traverse the runway, then clap as the models all re-emerge at the end of the show.
No, this is a warmhearted event during which popular Easterseals Arkansas client-models work the catwalk, each in his own special way, to thunderous applause by the crowd.
Such was the agency's annual fundraiser, The Fashion Event, held Feb. 24 in the Little Rock Marriott Grand Ballroom. Lauren Manatt was chairman, Jamie Moss was co-chairman and KARK's Mallory Brooks and D.J. Williams were hosts.
A gourmet buffet and a silent auction awaited guests of the sold-out event. They later viewed an agency video showcasing Shana and Jeff Fryar and their 5-year-old triplets, born at 27 weeks and served by the preschool at Easterseals.
Guests bid on live-auction items such as a spa treatment package for four, a Las Vegas getaway and a closet full of clothes. A Jude Frances bracelet from Roberson's Fine Jewelry was raffled off. The show, set off with music by Boom Kinetic, also featured professional models who displayed sartorial ensembles from such stores as Dillard's, Bologna Joe's, Barbara/Jean, Steamroller Blues, Beyond Cotton and jewelry outlets Roberson's and Sissy's Log Cabin.
But it was the client-models -- including returning favorites Jennifer, Al, Haven, Michael Joe, Shawn and Taylor -- who were the evening's stars. As always, younger models were escorted by fashionable adult volunteers.
Event proceeds will be used for programs at Easterseals, which provides programs for children and adults with disabilities.
High Profile on 03/05/2017