United in Style
Boston runway fashion got started this past season at the Shops in Chestnut Hall Mall “United in Style.” A charitable collaboration between Project Smile and Dress for Success Boston for a stimulating fashion show fundraiser hosted by Shayna Seymour & Ramiro.
The event was produced and styled by Kathy Benharris with KB Fashion Productions assisted by Tala Koury & Jacquie Minasian. This runway event was a bit different for Scene&Style as I was surprised to be asked to walk as a local celebrity model. It was truly an honor, and I knew I was in good hands as the only other time I had walked for Boston Fashion Week the queen bee Kathy Benharris was in charge.
I must admit, I rarely find myself nervous approaching a show, however this time around the angle was a bit different. The mastermind of Benharris always makes for a show and decided to have me walk exuding, just who I am. All models were instructed for phones to be away in bags, yet I was backstage getting the general highlights I bring to my live posting. When I hit the end of the runway in my gorgeous Queenia vintage Channel look from Italia, I pulled out my phone and took my press pit selfie with the family I am used to snagging my lighting from.
It was such an amazing experience to be glammed up by Jackie V MUA, mix and mingle with gorgeous models, celebrities and walk for a cause dear to my heart. Yet, I wouldn’t have felt like myself unless I captured a collection from the press pit. I snook out before the final walkthrough and caught the last designer to show, J Crew. I had been doing a little backstage coaching with former Celtic Rob Williams and needed to see him strut his stuff down his first runway.
Project Smile and Dress for Success Boston pulled out all the stops to kick off Boston Fashion Week. United in Style was hosted by Shayna Seymour from Channel 5 News Boston and Ramiro from HOT 96.9FM.
The fashion show featured with men & women from the community along with prominent Bostonians, modeling the latest looks from Chestnut Hill retailers. The models included Boston City Council members, Melissa from HOT 96.9, Brianna Borghi from News Channel 5 Boston, Miss Massachusetts and special guest model Rob Williams formally of the Boston Celtics.
Featured retailers included Ann Taylor, At Cozy, EverEve, Express Edit, Laughing Lotus Jewelry, LMF Fine Jewelry, Marc Cain, J. Crew, Nic+Zoe and Queenia.
A pre and post cocktail party took place and gave guests an opportunity to mingle and enjoy delicious complimentary appetizers & desserts. Complimentary cocktails included with ticket purchase were courtesy of Velo Vodka and Boston Harbor Distillery.
A silent auction- bid took place of local restaurant gift cards, hotel stays, fun activities and more! All proceeds benefited Dress for Success Boston's mission to provide career services and job interview clothing for low income women in the greater Boston area. Also, Project Smile's program, Suits & Smiles, which provides job interview clothing for low income men in the Boston area. Together, these charities help thousands of people in need in our community. Visit www.dressforsuccess.com or www.projectsmile.org to donate!
LINK TO FULL MAGAZINE https://madmagz.com/magazine/2116721
