Dallas fashion VIPs had nothing to fear on Friday the 13th when they headed to Fashion Industry Gallery for a show themed “Phantom of the Runway,” featuring the creations of local designer Esé Azénabor.
After cocktail hour, during which attendees sipped specialty drinks and a little bubbly, emcee LeeAnne Locken signaled it was showtime. And, just like that, Violin Guy Radu Cernat began a mesmerizing remix of “Phantom of the Opera.”
All eyes were on the runway, where masked models sported 48 hand-beaded looks — dresses and jumpsuits — from the Nigerian-born Azénabor. Among those transfixed in the audience were Gina Ginsburg, Cynthia Smoot, Tara Harper, Laurie Graham, Dawn Mellon, Kristin Smith, Stephanie Quadri and Barri Martin-Paulz.
Azénabor felt strongly about donating 100 percent of the evening’s proceeds to Our Hearts Day Center, a nonprofit that serves teens and adults with learning and developing disabilities. The hope is to raise enough money for the organization to purchase a much-needed wheelchair-accessible van, and Azénabor is hosting private shopping experiences at her showroom in the Dallas World Trade Center until that goal is met.
Guests left with impressive swag bags filled with goodies such as free blowouts by Dear Clark; Uber discounts; and gift cards from Dr. Naila Malik, Planet Beach and Lash Loft.
"Phantom of the Runway" showcased 48 looks by Dallas designer Esé Azénabor.
