Autumn Renaissance Brings Dallas Fashion Scene Back to Life
Dressed in high-waisted grey slacks and crisp white blouse, the model struck her pose against a wall of autumn leaves and gold accents. Flashing lights filled the room as the model strategically titled her head and shifted her hips with each click of the camera. The air filled with chatter and laughter from the guests at the On the Levee venue Wednesday night in Dallas’s Design District.
The model flipped her hair and strutted down the runway to the beat of the music, pivoting sharply at the end before disappearing behind the stage.
“She walks the runway every year,” said Ricardo Mancia, seated in the front row wearing a sheer tank top and sleek black pantsuit. “It’s amazing to see how much her confidence as grown.”
FWD Fashion Group, short for Fashion Worth Defining, is a Dallas-based organization founded by a group of local designers. The group is dedicated to empowering emerging designers and elevating underrepresented voices in fashion by offering mentorship, entrepreneurship training, and community support. Its mission is to foster inclusivity and innovation through annual events like the Autumn Renaissance.
Guests browsed through racks of clothes and jewelry displayed by local vendors while mingling near the bar, where complimentary cocktails were being served. Behind the counter, a bartender carefully poured drinks for guests.
“This kind of crowd always makes my job more fun,” said Lala Brown, one of the bartenders serving at the event. “There seems to be more people attending this year than last.”
As the night continued, the runway continued to prove the amount of effort and creativity put into each design. Many of the fall-inspired looks featured bold textures, layered fabrics, and earthy tones. Erica LeFlore, co-founder of FWD Fashion Group, said the event represents more than just fashion but an opportunity for people to express themselves.
“Every designer has a story to tell, and this gives them a chance to share it with others,” LeFlore said. “We love these events because it is such a strong community of people that inspire one another.”
When the final model took her bow under the golden light, guests rose to their feet and clapped along to the beat of the music until she strutted off the runway. The applause lingered until the last spotlight dimmed. One by one the models came out from behind the stage and were embraced by family and friends that came to show their support.
