2nd Annual Runway to Freedom Charity Fashion Show

I love attending fashion shows for a cause and supporting someone who has really lived what they are raising money for! Runway to Freedom is going on it’s 2nd year and is put together by a very known Seattle hairstylists from Intermezzo Salon and Spa in Queen Anne, Lauren Grinnell. She is a true inspiration to women out there who are struggling day to day. She has brought her enthusiasm, spunk, and love for fashion together to give support to women in need of “New Beginnings.” New Beginnings, is a Seattle based non-profit organization whose mission statement is to provide shelter, advocacy, and support to battered woman and their children. All proceeds from the show were given to this organization. Last year the team raised over $2,000 for New Beginnings and this year the amount DOUBLED raising over $4,000!! Singer/songwriter Portia Monique was back again this year- looking fabulous as always! A true beauty on stage! Also, another performer, Jairemie Alexander put on an outstanding performance letting his true passion for music really shine! He owned it!

Some of the local designers who showcased their lines were Justin Zachary Bartle, Cami Funk, Katie Kinkle, and the famous Rene Ropas! All designs were unique in their own way. Justin Zachary Bartle showcased formal wear. Very elegant, feminine dresses for every women to feel extra special in.  Rene Ropas put on a very vibrant, out of the ordinary (In a good way) set where all of her models came out in black jumpsuits, acting as live mannequins and were then dressed by others in her designs. It was something I had never seen done before so I was very impressed and left feeling inspired! Reconstructed Clothing Co.is a local business with local designers using local resources to start a clothing Ecoloution. They simply make news things out of old which I really love! Check them out on 1st ave, Downtown Seattle! Powder Room rocked the runway with over-sized sweaters, fur, plaids, and lace! There is something for everyone at Powder Room and the price point is right on! I love their accessories too! Zebra Club always shines and tonight they did it again with cozy over-sized sweaters, denim, skinny jeans, neutrals, and stripes. Oh, did I mention shoes? Zebra Club always has their models in the best shoes!

To end the evening, the runway cleared off, and the Seattle-based break-dancing group Massive Monkees-known for their  high-energy performances on America’s Best Dance Crew busted some serious moves. Props to the team, because that takes dedication and a whole lot of time! Very impressive! Thank you to those who came out and supported the 2nd Annual Runway to Freedom Charity Fashion Show!

Below are a few of my favorites from the evening:

Justin Zachary Bartle

Cami Funk

Powder Room

Zebra Club

Rene Ropas  “BE BEAUTIFUL, BE INSPIRED, BE UNSTOPPABLE.”

All photos taken by: Chelsea Mae Dickson