KCFW MAGAZINE FALL / WINTER 2021 by kcfashionweek

MEET THE 2021 FALL / WINTER DESIGNERS

KCFW ADVENTURES GOES TO UTAH

8 EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS

PHILIP O. WILLOUGHBY CEO

This statement has been proven categorically wrong.

An editor of Slate Magazine described fashion week as “a snooty scam perpetrated by New Yorkers on poor slobs elsewhere.” (Sept. 2004). While this colorful description adds nothing to the meaningful dialogue that has gone on in the fashion industry the last fifteen years concerning issues of sustainability, inclusion, diversity, and relevance, it does add to the general concept that “fashion is a New York thing only for them, and we’re not invited.”

The quaint notion that all fashion designers are raised by wealthy parents on the east coast, and intern in fashion houses alongside someone similar to Cruella DeVille, while secretly stealing pattern designs for the day they strike out on their own has long been revealed as fantasy. Fashion designers come from all parts of our nation, from all socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds, and take very unique paths to industry success. Seeing the incredible design talent across our nation, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (the organization behind NYFW) this year began partnerships with a dozen major fashion weeks in all parts of the United States, including Kansas City Fashion Week. Its goal is to “connect domestic markets to the American and global fashion industries.” We could not be more #CFDAConnects family.

proud

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Perhaps the other editor from the Slate magazine article was more accurate when they wrote that during fashion week is the time to be on the lookout for “a flash of brilliance from an unheard of talent.” You will definitely see “brilliance” from each designer at this season’s KCFW, and we invite you to celebrate each of the unique career paths that have led them to our creative 2021 runway. Philip O. Willoughby, CEO Kansas City Fashion Week 04

makeup/hair

Kyndra Jade

Kathryn Craig

Nokota.style

Beki Kerarly

Jeanne Nuage Joshua J Chrid Iron Togs - Kelso Martin

models Bianca Alonzo Kyleigh Burton Aspen DePeralta

Ashley Hazelwood Wendy Sanford Courtney Forester

photographers Layne Whitehouse Alex Todd Eli Stack

Keyonna Hawkins

Jennifer Robbins

Remmie Monahan

Lyndsey Baldwin

Angela Murphy

UTAH, UTAH, UTAH, UTAH, UTAH, UTAH, UTAH, UTAH,

NEVADA NEVADA NEVADA NEVADA NEVADA NEVADA NEVADA NEVADA

CR ED

designers/wardrobe

Sarah Houser

Morgan Reece Sophie Sadrakula

production

Rebecca Schaefer

KCFW Adventures

Shanice Whitney

style assistant

Keyonna Hawkins

KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW KCFW

ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES ADVENTURES

KC FW 26

THE DESIGNERS Meet the creators behind all of the beautiful garments on the runway

32 KCFW SHOW SCHEDULE Find out when you will see your favorite designers

VOLUNTEERS Julie Tracy reflects on what it's like to volunteer with KCFW

58 KCFC

Recent events and update from the Kansas City Fashion Council

contents

8 EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS 35mm prime lens The 35mm is my go-to lens that's useful in any situation. B&H Photo $199.00

Filters Polarizing and neutraldensity filters are a photographer's best friend when shooting in direct sunlight. B&H Photo $10.90

Tripod Whenever you want to take a self portrait or shoot in low light, just attach your camera to a tripod and you won't have to worry about blurry photos. Target $35.99

Extra Batteries Never miss the perfect shot because of dead batteries! I always keep some spares in my bag for all of my gear.

Target $9.39

SD Cards I always make sure my SD cards are ready to go before a shoot - and I always keep a couple extra just in case! Target $13.99

Cleaning Supplies I always make sure that my camera lens is nice and clean with some glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Target $1.49

Flash Having a camera flash is perfect for shooting at night or getting creative with light. B&H Photo $59

Camera Bag Any backpack will do, but there are backpacks specifically for camera gear that have customizable slots. B&H Photoy $83.95

Alex Todd is a software engineer and professional photographer, based in KC. He started photography at K-State, working for the Collegian student newspaper - taking photos of community events, people, and sports. After K-State Alex moved to KC and joined the fashion community, taking photos at KCFW, going on amazing KCFWA trips, and working on creative ideas with some of KC's best designers, H/MUA, stylists, and models. He also enjoys music photography, has worked with top musical artists in multiple genres such as Kane Brown, Louis the Child, and Subtronics. When not working or taking photos, can be found editing at HITIDES coffee, hanging out with friends, or on the disc golf course.

Christina Moncke, KCFW The Magazine Fashion Editor

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JOSHUA CHRISTENSEN

KYNDRA JADE

NAAVA SWIM

pink perfection...

TOPPING DESIGNS

ANNETTE SUNSHINE DESINGS

MOZZE

JENNIFER ROBINS

LITTLE JO DESIGNS

Playful, romantic, and charming. Pink is a pleasant surprise in a variety of shades and hues. 19

JEANNE NUAGE

LITTLE JO DESIGNS

chic white...

ANNETTE SUNSHINE DESIGNS

ANAI. V

ROMEE THE BRAND

JAXSON WYATT

ROMEE THE BRAND

JEANNE NUAGE

Crisp, clean, and fresh. White in a variety of styles and silhouettes offers a blank canvas to highlight accessories, shoes, or hairstyles for a polished look. 21

FASHION BY AYALA

JAQUI CO. BY TEAL HOUSE

DE’LATAIL CUSTOM CREATIONS

beautiful brown...

HOUSE OF COLBY

NOKOTA.STYLE

NYX BOUTIQUE

KYNDRA JADE

JAXSON WYATT

Natural, deep, and warm. A variety of browns and tans are down to earth and represent strength and resiliency. 23

ROMEE THE BRAND

HOUSE OF COLBY

ELIZABETH DIAMANT

LITTLE JO DESIGNS

glamorous volume...

GRACIE KEY

KYNDRA JADE

ANNETTE SUNSHINE DESIGNS

JAXSON WYATT

Gathers, pleats, and volume. Dimension is developed by overlaying satin, taffetas, and silk with translucent fabrics like tulle or organza. to create dramatic styles. 25

designers

F/W’ 2021 KCFW

Annette Sunshine Designs has been in business since 2007. She has created custom garments for men, women and children including wedding gowns, prom dresses and pieces for many women. Annette has a remarkable skill for designing for all body types and has a passion for fabrics. Annette likes to design clothing for the everyday woman whether it is for a special event or if a client is looking to add a special piece to their wardrobe. She did not attend design school and is entirely self-taught.

annette sunshine designs Any Old Iron is the brainchild of designer/stylist, Andrew Clancey. The label's name is rooted in the olden cry of a scrap man collecting metal with his horse and cart, and also hearkens to Clancey’s family scrap metal business which was founded in 1872. “Any Old Iron,” is also an Old English music hall song that references a young man’s sartorial dandyism – a quality that is distinctly English, and, ever-present in the brand's aesthetic. In October of 2014, Any Old Iron moved its store to Nashville, Tennessee from NYC looking to dress the cities musicians and fashion-forward locals. Now a showroom, Any Old Iron’s clients include Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Cher, Ozzy Ozbourne, Kate Bosworth, Taylor Swift, Elton John, Miranda Lambert, Cardi B, and the Jonas Bros to name but a few.

any old iron Architexture Collaboration is for the Strong.Smart.Modern consumer and offers modern, minimalist formal styles that can be selected and combined to meet each person’s style. The Collaboration is the shared experience between the designer and the wearer; Architexture provides beautifully designed items, the buyer selects their styles and makes them their own. Each piece is designed and produced with careful consideration of social and environmental impact. Production is executed locally with organizations that contribute to the well-being of the labor force as well as the regional economy. The styles are made-to-order thus reducing the apparel industry waste that is often created by carrying inventory.

With over 25 years in the apparel & consumer product industry; from fashion design to domestic and international production to retail buying for major retailers, our team has covered most aspects of the retail industry. We want to take this experience to improve upon traditional apparel industry standards and move towards more improved methods that will make a difference in the future of fashion.

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Devil Doll by Audrey Lockwood derived from a longtime passion for designing clothing and a childhood nickname. With her mischievous ways, her parents nicknamed her Devil Doll at a young age, and little did they know it would become the name of Audrey's ready-to-wear business. As a designer and entrepreneur, she channels an edgy, retro style that always maintains a feminine edge. She uses bold color and strong texture throughout her work to dress the girl boss that everyone is undeniably drawn to. Audrey is heavily inspired by vintage dress and pop culture and uses those references to create conceptual collections. Her designs are all about empowering the boldest of women. All of her garments are available as custom-made-to-measure pieces in her current line Devil Doll. In her free time, she enjoys fashion blogging and traveling with her pug, Athena. Audrey uses conceptualization, illustration, patterning, and sewing garments to clothe the women who are making waves in the world.

devil doll by audrey lockwood Duane retired from the US Army in 2012 and found himself struggling with PTSD. In 2016, with the support of his wife, Jamie, he found a path out of the darkness. Designing Clothes represented the flames of the Phoenix, and a new life was reborn. Through each piece created by Topping Designs, Duane and Jamie seek to give YOU the platform and voice to break down the walls and relabel yourself and find your switch to turn on the light! Duane’s approach to clothing combines smart styling with a touch of an adventurous attitude. His designs are focused on the diversity of a woman’s body with the allure of feminine grace. Duane has since evolved his unique style to help you rediscover your power and create a new beginning out of the ashes. Since Duane started on this journey his designs have been featured on the runway in NYFW, Denver Fashion Week, Baltimore Fashion Week, and in San Diego. He has been published in Vogue, Shuba, and Pump Magazines. Duane was asked to give a talk with TEDx Milehigh and was a feature story on NPR, Local Denver news, and The Daily Blast Live.

duane topping - topping designs Zawadi Bahati is a 28-year-old designer with his own brand, "From The Bottom". This urban apparel line is inspired by the struggle, representing underdogs all over the world who know that just because you start at the bottom that doesn't have to be where you finish. Zawadi enjoys watching fashion shows from Versace to urban designers like Milano. He has always wanted to participate in KCFW after being a part of other local fashion shows. He knows his brand is ready to take the next step, and he wants to bring a flare to the show that no one has before.

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GOEX Apparel is a social enterprise with a mission to set an example in the industry for ethically made and sustainable fashion. We are committed to creating garments our clients love to wear while breaking with traditionally low wages for garment workers and harm to the environment. Meghann Wheelock has a passion for people and the planet. Driven to contribute to the revitalization of the Fashion Industry, Meghann pursues sustainability in design and fabrication by creating products from remnant materials and using diversity in imagery. A KC native and Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising grad, Meghann’s works have been featured in Women’s Wear Daily, Cosmopolitan, The Pitch KC and has worked with brands such as Guess Jeans, Betsey Johnson, and Ethel and Dean. Meghann began working with GOEX Apparel in 2019.

go ex apparel by meghann wheelock

Gracie Key™ was created to empower women through affordable and sustainable designer fashion. Each piece is cultivated to highlight individuality and bring a bold, feminine touch to every wardrobe. Gracie Key™ is a ready-to-wear collection that has a classic style that is both timeless and versatile. Gracie Key started her journey as a fashion designer by creating custom evening wear while practicing sustainability through reusing and recycling fabrics. She has expanded her brand into the ready-to-wear market while also continuing to create custom pieces and one-of-a-kind, sustainable items.

gracie key

Hannah Jensen is thrilled to be showing her Fall/Winter Collection for the first time at Kansas City Fashion Week! Her journey to becoming a fashion designer began at a young age when she fell in love with vintage clothing antiques, and crafts kept in her art teacher grandmother’s home. Clothing became an important fascination in her life as she shopped at second-hand stores in high school and college. Her favorite part of having a full closet is the spectacle of assembling the perfect outfit. In 2013 she graduated from the University of Kansas with a BFA in Expanded Media. Following an intuition that she could excel with fashion, she graduated from Johnson County Community College in 2018 with a degree in Apparel Design and Technology. She is deeply inspired through art, apparel, music, travel, family, and her devoted chihuahuas Suki and Sarah. Her accolades include the Emerging Designer Prize at Omaha Fashion Week in 2019 and 2021 as well as clothing featured in the 2021 issue of Local Runway Magazine. Special thanks to her friends, family, and mentors for their support over the years!

hmjstyle

As a child in the Dominican Republic, there were always long power outages. During these long hours, Estephania would sketch clothes and outfits as early as the 4th grade. In high school, in between the extracurriculars and resumé building, she took a Fashion Design class at Altos de Chavón. She attended the University of Virginia and double majored in Economics and Foreign Affairs. She started a jewelry business while taking night classes for an MBA and a Masters in Corporate Finance but none of these things fulfilled her so she decided to study Fashion at Parsons. Estephania started hols.e in September 2019. Applying her business knowledge to the newly acquired design knowledge would surely be more gratifying and could expand outward toward the US and European markets. She presented a heavily product-focused test capsule collection, titled Humanity in the Digital Age Vol l. The Soul in October 2020. The capsule was a Resort Collection. Volume I’s intention was to create lightness and ease, a respite from the attention-seeking, cluttered, and draining lifestyle of the digital age. The collection was a curated selection of jackets, easy skirts, cute tops, artisanal sandals, mask chains, and other protective accessories.

hols.e

The House of Pamela Renee’ was founded by Fashion Designer and Educator, Pamela Renee’ Lucas. Pamela, a native New Yorker is a graduate of the esteemed Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. She has earned her degree in Fashion Design, Pattern Drafting and Draping as well as Apparel Production Management and has acquired 25+ years of experience in the Fashion Industry. As an educator, Pamela has earned a lifetime teaching certificate in Apparel and Textiles, has written a curriculum for Clothing Construction and Fashion Design Programs. She is highly qualified to teach at the secondary and post-secondary levels. Pamela is also the founder of The Academy of Patternmaking and Draping, an online subscription membership that teaches Fashion Industry Methods of pattern drafting and draping. As a fashion Designer, Pamela is known for her unique style in special occasion wear for men and women. Her clothing line exhibits exquisite taste, quality, and high fashion. Her attention to detail and fit places her clothing styles on the top shelf.

house of pamela renee House of Solana is a plus-size clothing line that was created by Sasha Walton at the age of 20. She attended Mount Mary College and studied fashion design for 5 years as well as studying abroad in Paris, France, and Antwerp, Belgium. Her career has flourished into a wonderful division of making art with the plus-size body and understanding who “She” is and the desire to create for her. The motto for House of Solana is the thrive of lavish, beauty, and style. House of Solana is for women that want to look and feel beautiful, for the woman that wants to be fierce from day to night, as well as for the woman who loves the simple look with a twist. I design for plus size women because my passion is for creating that diversity of clothing for women to break out of their shell and be the woman that she commands to be, instead of just one standard of beauty.

house of solana

J. Manning is an emerging designer that has been designing for five years. Designing and fashion is a creative outlet that has developed into a passion for her. J. Manning sought training under designer Pamela Lucas and has been mentored under her for the last nine years. Since designing clothing J. Manning has participated in KCFW twice before and the organization was an intricate part in getting the brand name out regionally.

j. manning Originally from Sacramento, CA, Jennifer Tierney is intrigued most by lines, movement, and creating shapes through space. Fashion, runway & costume design were always waiting in the wings past a 17 yr professional ballet career. Her designs revolve heavily around curves of the body and exploring silhouettes and texturing while delicately recreating the architectural body lines with fabric. Ms. Tierney’s ballet career took her all over the United States. She has lived and worked in cities from the east coast to the west coast and several in between. She finally found her landing place right in the center, Kansas City. Ms. Tierney has been thriving in and loving KC for over 15 years. She has worked as Head Costuming Director/Designer for the American Youth Ballet, is the Owner of American Dance Center Ballet Academy, and is the Creative Director/Founder of Jeanne Nuage -formerly J.Tierney Designs. She has presented in Kansas City Fashion Week S/S ’19, F/W ’19 & S/S ’20, West 18th Street Fashion Show Summer 2018 & 2019, as well as Omaha Fashion Week F/W ’19 and JCCC Fashion Show Spring 2019. 2020 has been the official launch year of the womenswear brand - Jeanne Nuage. Ms. Tierney believes that women are born powerful. We are the superheroes of the world. This is a womenswear brand built to keep up.

jeanne nuage

Sydni- founder and CEO of Jill Marie Baby Boutique is a Mom of two but a “cool mom!" (She couldn’t leave that part out!). It's important to her that you know a little bit about her since she put my heart and soul into this brand- and she can't wait to share it with you. Sydni was a professional dancer for a few years and truly loved it. At 21, she had my first child, Tyrann. This new journey definitely forced her to choose between what she wanted to do, and what she needed to do. She knew in her heart that she needed to put her son first, and she did without hesitation. She slowly started to lose her passions and drive, and honestly got comfortable with her new normal. Sydni’s always been creative, passionate, driven, and she knew she could do anything she put her mind to, but this time was different. She was determined to make one of her ideas a reality. She never took h eye off of it until it came to fruition because she didn’t want it to just be another idea. And here we are! Jill Marie Boutique!

jill marie boutique

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Joshua Christensen is now based in Detroit after 10 years of living and working in Los Angeles. He was a contestant on Project Runway Season 9 and has worked for worldwide labels including Guess inc. Featured are designs from all the different collections and projects Joshua has created and featured in fashion weeks and editorials around the world. Joshua studied fashion design at FIDM in Los Angeles, CA, and after graduation was selected as a contestant for the TV show Project Runway. After the show, Joshua became a menswear designer at Guess Inc. After a time there he decided to grow his own line of clothing under his name. These collections, season after season, have been featured at fashion weeks around the world. As part of a journey to discover what design can do, Joshua Christensen designs clothing for both men and women, including concept designs, evening wear, swimwear, athletic apparel, etc.

joshua j chris

Lauren O'Bannon is a self-taught seamstress who loves putting her skills to the test. A small sewing project at the beginning of the pandemic sparked her love for designing fashion pieces. Today, she continues to challenge herself with every stitch, making sure her next piece is better than her last. She continues to grow as a designer, using each piece as a stepping stone for the next. Kansas City Fashion Week is the perfect time to spotlight her designs and showcase her evolving designing capabilities.

justinchristine Kindred is a collective boutique with locations in Overland Park, Independence, and on the Country Club Plaza dedicated to bringing you the best, widest selection of fashion, accessories, and giftables that Kansas City has to offer. Between our social - collective boutique layout and the incorporation of home decor, apothecary, and vintage goods throughout the shop, Kindred is dedicated to elevating your boutique shopping experience.

kindred

Kerrie Aaron, creative of KLOTHED:31, is an Arkansas native who grew up in a Christian home where there were restrictions on attire. The ability to sew/create was a blessing, as it allowed Kerrie to have a unique style of her own. “I’ve always loved fashion!” Her mother taught her sewing skills & garment construction at a very early age. Dreams of New York and becoming a fashion designer were redirected to attending the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) earning a Bachelor & Master Degree in Family & Consumer Sciences. In the Spring of 2019, “GOD let me know, you can do this” says Kerrie and hence emerged KLOTHED:31. The brand is an emerging handmade, ethical & modest slow fashion brand. As an advocate for modern modesty, KLOTHED:31 is a representation of reverence for GOD, yet all while creating a collection of garments that still allow expression of style, creativity, individuality, versatility & authenticity. The creative is passionate about having a garment that is not readily available to others.

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Runway Show 7:00PM - 9:00PM CST

22 WED SEPT 2021

J. Manning Spacecamp Studios JustinChristine HMJstyle - INTERMISSION -

GoEx Apparel Regal Status From the Bottom Devil Doll by Audrey Lockwood 32

Runway Show 7:00PM - 9:30PM CST

THURS SEPT 2021

hols.e Kindred House of Solana Kyndra Jade - INTERMISSION -

Lauren Bander Makaylee Gayad Ying Ying Ying 33

Runway Show 7:30PM - 10:00PM CST

24 FRI SEPT 2021

Gracie Key Klothed:31 Annette Sunshine Designs Potapenko Yanchenko Jill Marie Boutique TRBrown - INTERMISSION -

Little Jo Designs Jeanne Nuage Rissa’s Artistic Design Nokota.Style

Runway Show Finale 7:30PM - 10:30PM CST

SAT APRIL 2021

Laura Citron House of Pamela Renee Lucia’s Sarto - Nataliya Meyer Joshua J Chris - INTERMISSION -

Any Old Iron Architexture Duane Topping - Topping Designs 35

Kyndra Jade designs Alluring Gowns for Extraordinary Women. The brand produces whimsical looks and creates high-quality gowns that push the creative boundaries using layers of ruffles, tulle, and organza. Creating unique silhouettes, ethereal energy that provides a magical aesthetic. Couture wings for women, boudoir photographers, models, runway, and custom Store displays. Kyndra Jade was established in 2019 when 36-yearold owner and designer, Kyndra Jade, decided to chase her wildest dreams in fashion on the runway. After being a serial entrepreneur for 18 years Kyndra Jade is set to focus her talents on her art and the fashion industry. To find out more, visit www.kyndrajade.com

kyndra jade Laura Citron is a fashion label celebrating maximalist glamour and based in Nashville, TN since 2016. Laura combines her degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology (NYC) in Apparel Merchandising with years of working with New York’s top luxury vintage apparel retailers. In 2014, she moved to Nashville and opened her own edited vintage clothing boutique, OPIUMvintage. Connecting the past and the present, Laura has now created a label that evokes the fun and eclectic whimsy of decades past with a reimagined vision for a modern world!

laura citron Lauren Bander is designing bold styles for the whimsical woman. Her designs are described as ethereal with a twist of couture. Combining her three passions in life: fashion, animals, and mental health advocacy she is using her talents and love of fashion to bring awareness to animal rescue and helping to normalize the conversation of mental health.

lauren bander From an early age, Jo realized that creating was her calling. Jo puts her heart and soul into each new project, and this intense passion for all things design is reflected by her exceptional and highly varied portfolio. Jo has two clothing lines, her children's line, and her adult gown line. In 2019 she won the Emerging Designer Award at Omaha Fashion Week and was honored to be invited back the following season as a Headliner. Jo does all her designing and sewing at her studio. She enjoys the process of design from concept to execution. Rejecting trends and fads in favor of lasting signature looks is Jo's Hallmark of glamour with a modern sensibility- a must in today's market.

little jo designs

Lucia's Sarto specializes in custom-designed clothing, for women, men, and children. Behind Lucia’s Sarto is clothing designer, Nataliya Meyer. Nataliya always knew she was going to be creating clothing. It was somehow woven into her, just like learning to speak or how to write. She believes beauty will save the world. Almost every minute of her adult life, she is haunted by clothing: its creation, its fit, and its design. Her process starts as an inspiration for something she sees, hears, or reads. Then it evolves into images that would in some way in her mind relate to the clothing she’s creating. She always wanted to be noticed in a crowd. Being from a poor background, there were no funds available for her taste, so she started altering things that she had. Much of her inspiration came from researching the historical heritage of many parts of the world. Everything she sees, she absorbs in her mind and translates it into clothing language. Her style of work is very diverse, but however different the clothes may be, the quality is always the highest.

lucia's sarto-natalia meyer Makaylee Gayed is designing high-quality lifestyle apparel for powerful women and encouraging them through versatile confidence. The Makaylee Gayed brand was launched after a series of meaningful life events. At the young age of 8, Makaylee was taught to sew by her grandmother and that is where the love of all things creative started to blossom. Once college rolled around was when I knew I wanted to take my love of sewing and fashion even further and I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Textiles, Merchandising, and Apparel Design from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Now at the age of 27, she is launching her brand and designing clothes that make women realize their inner worth, beauty, and confidence. By channeling her emotions and putting them into her designs, it has allowed her to cope through an artistic outlet, but also provide powerful and high-quality clothing that can change a woman’s attitude and bring out her sexiness and confidence. She learned that something as simple as putting on the right outfit can do wonders for the ego and change the way a person sees themselves each day.

makaylee gayed Olha Potapenko and Tatiana Yanchenko have been partners in the fashion industry since 2005. Together they built the brand Potapenko & Yanchenko. Both designers graduated from vocational schools in Ukraine where they were first introduced to the world of fashion. Since they joined forces in 2005 their work quickly became recognized on a national level for its exceptional quality and captivated the Ukrainian clientele. Soon after, their gowns were demanded in the Arabian Peninsula and various European countries. In September of 2016, the designers took second place at the New Fashion Zone competition for young designers.

potapenko & yanchenko

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The best designs come from a life well-lived. Tonya’s fashion interest reflects her love of riding horses and travel. She has always created one-of-a-kind items for personal use because most of what she sees in her mind she is not able to find in the world of current fashion. Tonya gained her formal experience starting at Johnson County Community College. After graduating with her associate's of applied science of Arts in fashion design, she further her education by going to Stephen's College in Columbia, MO. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design and Product Development. Throughout her lifetime and college, she has submitted Collections at both JCCC and Stephens College for annual fashion shows. She has now been designing under her brand Nokota.Style for 3 years, and has traveled with her brand to other fashion weeks. Her brand Nokota, is portrayed in her logo which is a digitized format of her original hand-painted horse. Nokota is bold and free to roam. The circle that encompasses her is representative of a clock. She is running free of time and physical restraint.

nokota.style Ms. Princess Elliott Hopkins was born and raised in Kansas City, MO, and currently stepped into the role of Founder and lead designer of the "Regal Status" Fashion Brand. Her goal is to compete with some of the top designers in the world starting in her hometown, KCMO. Interest in fashion is the art of clothing and the joy it brings by creating beautiful garments to empower those who choose to wear them. Possessing more organic training, from life experiences of developing her own style, shopping, and styling others, she decided to build a fashion brand. Light sewing classes, reading books, training under other local designers, she recently received the certificate of completion from "House of Pamela Renee" for "Apparel Production for Fashion Designers". The brand was created to inspire the female consciousness which allows her spirit to shine. Enhancing the outer beauty for the purpose of empowering her inner being. With ready-to-wear pieces as its core unique selling position.

regal status Clarissa's inborn creativity for design and embellishment lead her to become an entrepreneur in 2007. Her business, Rissa's Artistic Design (R.A.D.) is a haven for those who seek something special and unique. As a self-taught artist, she handcrafts one-of-akind original masterpieces that will inspire your creative side. These designs range from Earthy to Edgy to Elegant. Utilizing artistic wire and gemstones. These custom-made pieces can transform any outfit into a creative expression that is made just for you.

rissa's artistic design 38

Rebecca Hollar is a fashion designer, music producer, model, and photographer based out of Kansas City, MO. She has participated in two seasons of KCFW as a model and decided to return for another season, this time as a designer. At the beginning of quarantine last year, she decided to take her interest in fashion to the next step and learn how to make her designs come to life. After multiple months of consistent practice and learning what it takes to be a fashion designer, she finally launched Spacecamp Studios; a brand that creatives and the youth can relate to and express themselves with. From feminine to unisex to masculine-styled clothing, anyone and everyone can find something that speaks to them.

spacecamp studios Tiffany Brown is a self-taught seamstress who has most recently taken excel courses with the prestigious Central Saint Martins in London. Tiffany specializes in color cohesion and has a keen eye for textured fabrics creating some of the most unique pieces. Even though she has only been designing clothes for 5 years, she has made a name for her brand TRBROWN. TRBROWN is a women's ready-to-wear label that offers statement pieces for any occasion. The label is most notably known for its Chelsea Girl and #GPWR Collection that was featured at Kansas City Fashion Week, Portlands FashioNXT Presentation, and most recently NYFW. The Chelsea Girl Collection not only gained attention in the United States, but it also gained international attention. TRBROWN has been featured in magazines and on websites in Italy, Austria, Australia, London, and Germany; the most notable of these being VOGUE, TATLER, and Vanity Fair. TRBROWN is also a favorite of Mood Fabrics, the fabric of Project Runway. They have featured designs of TRBROWN on various occasions as inspiration to other designers. Tiffany continues to drive her label forward and the main message she wants to convey is “wear what you feel most comfortable in.”

tr brown A MODERN LINE OF EDGY YET INCLUSIVE STREETWEAR SHATTERING SOCIAL DOGMA. Our Brand: Have you ever felt like you have something to prove to the world, or someone in your life to prove wrong? We have. Our brand is a tribute to them and everyone out there determined to beat the odds. One of Ying’s many meanings is “Win”, and it was one of the first that caught our eye when tossing around “YING YING YING” as our brand name. They say “winning isn’t everything”-- we agree. We don’t like to think of winning in terms of its opposite: losing. We reference winning more in terms of recognition of success. In order to recognize success, we must have missed the target a time or two, eh? To some, success is just getting from Point A to Point B, while to others it is finally risking it all to pursue their passion. We want to create clothing for the persevering that knows they can conquer any hurdle, and achieve anything to which they set their mind.

ying ying ying

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#KCFWMODEL

Jordan Carter Jennifer Abate Clarisa Evans AnnaBelle Cash Victoria Acevedo Monica Ewigman Kate Castillo Vivian Albers RaShidah Farnsworth Andrea Cervantes Bianca Alonzo Courtney Fitch Daniela Cervantes Garza Hunter Ambrose April Flowers Jennifer Claar Julie Amuedo Micah Foard Lauren Claar Brittany Anderson Amy Fouchia Darci Clark Grayson Arachtingi Lisa Fountain Corra Clawson Aziza Aslanova Gwendolyn Foy Maddison Clements Taryn Backlund Brooklyn Franklin Alli Colbert Meghan Baker Claire Franklin Jayleen Cole Brianna Ball Hanna Franklin Emilie Connors Heather Barlow Tesha Freeman Chey Cooper Anasazi Barnes Trejean Frieson Tyler Corsaut Eden Barnes Jorge García Tami Coultis Majeur Barrett-Jones Anthony Garrett Nicolette Covitz Blythe Bedlion Amber Gates Olivia Crews Camryn Benanti Angeline Gleason Dianna Crnkovich Ashley Benson Lily Gojcevic Cierra Cummins Annika Bergsten Haley Gosserand Colin Cuzner David Bihomora Adrianna Gould Dominic Davie Autumn Black Taylor Grade Morgan DeBow Amber Botros Lydia Graves Jordon Delehant Ariell Suzanne Braem Mallory Gray Aspen DePeralta Hayden Brax Gabreyele Green Emily Devault Grace Breshears Steven Green Kalinda Dixon Alicia Briggs Cameron Gunter Lindsey Drake Celeste Brinkley Piper Haddix Elle Dummermuth Daniel Brinko Alayna Haddock Angel Duong Hunter Brown Alissa Hadjian Jenny Duong Laci Brown Colton Hamilton Breanna Durbin Lauren Bruning Varonica Hamilton Olivia Jane Earwood Sam Budetti Laklynn Hanlon Carinna Edwards Taylor Buehrle Eliyanah Harden Hunter Elkinton Jalee Buie Ja'Meisha Harris Amelia Ellsworth Sloane Burgess Monroe Hasselquist Rj Elosh Julianna Busse Ashley Haverman Ashley Epperson Collins Campbell Jaran Hedstrom Elizabeth Estrada Quinn Campbell Madison Heizer Brittany Evans Ally Carter Jasmine Henry 40

Cindy Hernandez MaryBeth Hershey Hannah Hicks Katie Higgins Brittany Hightower Marissa Hitt Rebecca Hollar Alex Holmes Gracie Hunt Natalie Hunt Diane Hunter Erianna Jackson Perla Jacobo Levi Jamison Reece Johnson Shawn Johnson Terra Johnson A'Lexus Jones Jamil Jones Ankita Kapoor Hannah Kathleen Bethlehem Kelecha Sarah Kerns Gracie Key Meredith Kiesling Haven Kilson Nova Kilson Amaris Kirby Harlow Kono Avaa Kristyne Sidney Kuhn Alexia Lamb Jaden Lane Rachel Lary Sailee Lavekar Sophie LaVoie Cayla Lawrence Noralys Lemus Frankie Leocardi Debonie Lewis

#MODELLIFE

Katherine Lindboe Ailynn Lindo Alexis Lindsey Kristina Lobb Rebecca Lombe Isabella Long Asaria Lopez Christine Lorene Morgan Lowery Gillian Lynch Savannah Mabery Shanna Mack Princess Malcom Gracie Manasseh Noelle Manica Sophia Manica Lauren Mann Kenya Martin Scout Matthews Celeste Mauk Deja McCrary Lesha Mcgee Henry McNeil Kathryn Mock Faith Moise Remmie Monahan Asha Moore Kalea Morgan Michelle Morris Vaveca Moss Christine Mungai Angela Murphy Cambre Napier Mackenzie Napier Gisele Ndifor Christopher Nelson Pamela Newton Caitlin Niendick Jaden Noll Alyssa Nordike

Kiera Nordike McCartney Quinn Segalo Lydia Vogel Sage Nordike Rebecca Shaffer Samantha Vogel Johana Olivetto Eleanor Sharemet Jenni Wahonick Tirzah Olivieri Leah Shipley Layla Walker Mariana Ortiz Royal Shurn Nevia Wallingford Marissa Ortiz Keziah Slinkard Deon Walton Millie Ortiz Mariya Slipych Morgan Warren Embry Elizabeth Oshakuade Heather Slusher Rachel Watson Alexandra OudeAlink Shae Smith Andrea Watts Christy Pahls Sharon Sparkman Holly Weatherford Amanda Parra Henley Spaulding Alela Webb Morgan Pashen Scarlett Spaulding Cydney Weber Akta Patel Cate Spencer Maryn White Justine Paton Cydni Stanford Ava Whitehouse Jatiana Pendleton Mario Stewart Max Whitehouse Hannah Phillips Jauwan Stinson August Whittington Phylicia Phillips Sarai Stinson Jackson Wiliams Savannah Pierce Sydney Stricker Aries Williams Theresa Pittman Katie Sung Charity Williams Caleb Poorman Sasha sung NaShari Williams Owen Porterfield Vincent Sung Jordan Wilson Josie Rawlings Thomas Swartz Roxanne Wilson Mikayla Rayburn Cieraa Tabe Terence Wilson Jr. Rushine Raymond Mason Tanner Daniella Winkle Tajiana Reynolds Charisse Taylor Jayden Worth Estevan Rios Laila Taylor Gabrielle Wussow Destinee Rivera Michelle Thien Amber Wyatt Jennifer Robbins Nanda Thornala Alexandria Yurko Payton Robertson Keysha Tiller Mallery Zion Jennifer Robinson Richard Torrence Maddison Robinson Hudson Tucker Eugena Rolle Madison Tucker Santana Romero Mekaile Turner Samantha Rosales Cody Tveit Sophie Sadrakula Megan VandeVelde Camryn Sanchez Camille Verhoeven Maria Savoy Edgar Vidal Alaxandra Scharschell Sidney Villarreal Oscar Schmidt Bethany Virgl Merrick Schroeder Tammy Viviano 41

#HMUA Mitsu Sato Hair Academy Z Hair Academy Paul Mitchell The School Overland Park Courtney Forster Paty Crabtree Jay Hefner Tiffany Taylor Maddie Freyre Laiba Khalil Rebecca DiMeo Julia Essman Kaycie Lee Kristian Peppars Shelia Franklin 42

T" JASON ATHERTON, photographer ANGEL DUONG, JENNY DUONG, THOMAS SWARTZ, model BEKI NYLAND, ERICA K, COURTNEY FORSTER, hair & makeup DILLARDS, OAKPARK MALL, clothing & jewelry TEISHA BARBER, CHRISTINA MONCKE, styling 43

ALEX TODD, photographer KEYONA HAWKINS, REBECCA SHAFFER, ANGELA MURPHY, model BEKI NYLAND, COURTNEY FORSTER, hair & makeup KYNDRA JADE, designer

KCFW Volunteers... Volunteering. Volunteers get to experience operations, hospitality, fashion, beauty, event coordination, day of execution, and customer service industries all in one week. This can be the perfect blend of passion and professional. Utilizing the volunteer program to get a sense of the show, but to also see the lay of the land as a designer. If you are a designer from a different state and you are teetering the idea of bringing your creativity to our runway, this is your chance; come volunteer! Kansas City Fashion Week is truly a magical experience. There are many aspects to making something of this caliber function and I would love to share what I like to call the “gateway to fashion.” The first time I attended KCFW I was impressed with everything about that day; guest dressed in their finest; red carpet photo moments; beauty and grandeur in the middle of a historical venue, not to mention the amazing designs that graced the runway throughout the day. I knew I had to be a part of this organization, but I wasn’t sure how I would squeeze it into my already busy schedule. But a woman on a mission is an incredible thing. Fast forward five years, I

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am now the Hospitality Manager. When I began my journey within KCFW, I was a volunteer, and I was very much in my element. This industry is fast, but it is graceful; Adventurous, yet poised. Exactly the place I want to be. After a season of volunteering, I was promoted to coordinator. This paved the way to where I am now and sparked my passion for those breaking into the “gateway of fashion.” I work with some of the most talented, selfless group of passionate people who are volunteering their time and efforts to make every patron feel that KCFW elation that I felt on day one. Let me explain to you the splendor that is KCFW

As the manager of hospitality, I want to provide access to those within the community that seek an interest within the fashion industry. We have built incredible relationships with high schools and colleges that provide KCFW with true visionaries. Our volunteers are the face of Kansas City Fashion Week as they are the first impression, the front lines, and the first encounter patrons have with our staff.

Julie Tracy, Hospitality Manager Kansas City Fashion Week

INTERVIEW WITH COVER MODEL

sophie sadrakula... KCFW MAG: What are your personal interests? KB: The biggest thing at the moment is my big move to Italy. When I was in Utah for the KCFW Adventures, I realized how bored I was getting of Kansas City and took a random leap and got a job in Modena, Italy. So a lot of my time recently has been getting everything squared away.

KCFW MAG: How did you get into modeling? KB: A good friend of mine, Morgan Fletchall was always talking about modeling and KCFW. Me, wanting to be just like her, decided to try it out. I believe 2018 was when I auditioned for KCFW and was selected by Hannah Kristina Designs and then everything took off from there! I have been in every KCFW since then and even gone on a couple of the Fashion Week Adventures. It was really hard for me to audition because I kept thinking to myself "Oh you're only 5'5 so if you don't get picked you know why." But here I am! I have traveled for modeling and even gotten into a magazine or two! KCFW MAG: What has your experience been as a model? KB: The experience has been everything that I thought it would be! Waking up early and getting hair and makeup done, coming in for fittings and doing walkthroughs is a 34

blast! Even when I had a call time for 5 AM, it was all totally worth it. Aside from doing runway, I love doing photoshoots and listening to music to loosen up and I feel like it makes me bring even more energy to the table. All in all, my experience has given me some of my favorite memories and of course gorgeous pictures to show off to friends and family but most importantly it has shown me that I have been able to achieve so much as a local model and create amazing bonds with people in the industry. KCFW MAG: What has been one of your favorite experiences in modeling? KB: My favorite experience was when I found out that I had been published for the first time. It was such a surreal feeling, I was thinking "NO FREAKING WAY!" I was calling everyone in my family, texting my friends. it was such a rush and such an amazing feeling for me.

KCFW MAG: What are you involved with outside of modeling? KB: I hang out with my best friend Camryn Sanchez, help my mom at her apartment and go to lunch with my dad a lot. You can find me in my apartment watching Harry Potter with Camryn, watching TikToks or simply playing with Peru my precious kitty. I live a normal life, but anyone who knows me knows that I have a lot of energy, a lot of jokes and some sick dance moves!

Kansas City Fashion Week is a nexus of fashion professionals. Featuring local, national, and international designers, each year KCFW produces two full weeks of premier runway shows, enabling designers to collaborate with seasoned stylists, make-up artists, models, and photographers to present their collections in the most professional atmosphere imaginable. Buyers and individual consumers are provided an opportunity to order apparel and accessories shown on the runway, and KCFW provides industry professionals an avenue to showcase their abilities to a national audience. With an unapologetic focus on the business side of the fashion industry, each KCFW event highlights the many facets of fashion commerce. Buyers from retail establishments, media personalities, online apparel entrepreneurs, and celebrities help to comprise an audience for each show, making KCFW a must-attend event for established and emerging fashion professionals. Kansas City has a rich history of fashion success. In the late 1940s, Kansas City's Garment District employed over 4,000 people and boasted that 1 out of every 7 women in the United States purchased garments made in Kansas City. In the successful production of over fifteen fashion week seasons, KCFW has helped refocus the region's attention to the commercial possibilities of a revitalized apparel design and manufacturing industry. Led by an experienced team of fashion industry professionals and event planning specialists, KCFW planners set the standard for fashion event production. Through partnerships with the Midwest's leading companies, KCFW continues to serve as a collaboration for the industry that propels emerging designers to success, as well as providing a rich source of consumer interaction for the established designer. 54

Teisha Barber

CEO

Layne Whitehouse PROGRAM PROGRAM MANAGER

PRESIDENT

KC FW

Phil Willoughby

COMMITTEE Jermaine Reed

Jermaine Reed PUBLIC AFFAIRS DIRECTOR

Sarah Russell PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Jason Atherton PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: KCFW MAG

Andria Ross

Clarissa Knighten

Julie Tracey

Noelle Manica

PROMOTIONS & EVENTS MANAGER

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

HOSPITALITY MANAGER

MODEL DIRECTOR

Chelsey Derks Modde SOCIAL DESIGNER MEDIA COORDINATOR LIAISON

Ashley Hazelwood

RJ Elosh II

Eli Stack

Maria Savoy

Gracie Key

STYLE TEAM COORDINATOR

MODEL COORDINATOR

PHOTOGRAPHY COORDINATOR

MODEL COORDINATOR

DESIGNER LIAISON

Craig Cook 62 EVENTS COORDINATOR SPECIAL

Jennifer Robbins

Aspen Deperalta

COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST

ADMINISTRATIVE INTERN

F/W 2021 KCFW 55 53

KCFW THE MAGAZINE STAFF

Jason is a Kansas City native. He graduated from The University of Kansas in 2001 with a degree in Business Administration. Today he works in finance, accounting, and photography. Photography focus includes fashion, events, and concerts/music. His main passion, however, is being a husband and father of four boys, Atherton was an official photographer with KCFW at the first show in the 2012 Fall/Winter season. In 2016 he joined the Kansas City Fashion Week team as the Photography Director. Jason is the founding editor of KCFW The Magazine, and has become an integral part of the leadership team.

Jennifer Abate Editor Originally from a small country town in Southeast Missouri, Jennifer gained her Bachelor Major in Graphic Design & Minor in Theater from the University of Missouri Kansas City in 2016. In the same year, Jennifer auditioned for Kansas City Fashion Week and was selected to walk for Ola Styles. Since then, she has been involved with KCFW, whether walking, volunteering, or magazine making. In her free time Jennifer enjoys working on her house and participating in local community theater.

Jason Atherton | Editor-in-Chief

Christina Moncke Fashion Editor Christina has spent the past 25+ years working in the apparel and consumer product industries. From apparel design and product development, to college instructor in Fashion Design and Marketing and currently managing a large product Merchandising and Trend department for a major retail corporation, she has done it all. Her involvement in KCFW has included participating in 5+ seasons as a designer with her line Architexture. She loves spending quality time with her husband and 2 teenage boys.

McCartney Segalo Editor McCartney's role as editor demonstrates her multitalented abilities. She has served in various roles with KCFW, from being one of the most experienced models on the runway to helping plan and promote events. A model and entrepreneur by trade, she has found time to dedicate to helping KCFW grow since its founding in 2010. In addition to serving as editor for KCFW Magazine, McCartney has also modeled for KCFW promotional shoots and contributed to the KCFW social media platforms. Her most recent modeling job took her to Mexico, reinforcing her status as an internationally published model.

FIVEXMEDIA, photographer MARIA MAMEDE, model

MEET A FEW OF OUR JCCC SHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

SAVANNA FREEMAN 2021

Savana is in her final year at JCCC and will be developing her collection for the JCCC fashion show this coming spring. She is a double major and has already completed her AAS in Fashion Merchandising and Marketing.

NATE SNOW 2020

KANSAS CITY FASHION COUNCIL SUPPORTING THE FUTURE By Andria Ross

Nate is the owner of a local company called Radical Fans that produces custom sports apparel for teams. The business also has a line of athletic shorts that is targeted to young men and women featuring a variety of prints.

MARKUS PALU 2019

Kansas City Fashion Council, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) tax exempt, non-profit service organization supporting the many individuals and businesses which comprise the KC metropolitan fashionrelated industry by offering networking, development, and educational opportunities. Formed in 2014, KCFC has been working behind the scenes supporting local charity organizations through volunteer work, co-hosting networking events with The Model Board LLC., and perhaps most dear to our hearts, raising funds to support the education of future industry leaders through our scholarship fund at Johnson County Community College School of Fashion, Merchandising and Design in Overland Park, KS. KCFC has awarded one scholarship per year since 2018 to a deserving JCCC Fashion, Merchandising & Design student primarily via the support of Kansas City Fashion week's "Swag Bags for a Cause" with products donated by generous local and national businesses.

Markus is continuing his education and is pursuing his BA in Fashion Design at FIDM in Los Angeles, CA.

A big THANK YOU to all of our past, present and future supporters! There are new and exciting things to come for KCFC! Follow along on IG @kcfashioncouncil and like us on FB Kansas City Fashion Council, Inc.

THANK YOU!!!