Runway Shows are intense, exciting and overflowing with creativity. With lovely lighting, a carefully curated playlist, and stunning models floating down the runway in incredible designs, fashion shows can truly be a magical experience.
If you have ever dreamed of attending a New York designer’s runway show, you are in luck! Tomorrow at 5:00pm, the Old Carthage Elementary School will open its doors and unveil an extraordinary evening of style at The Local Fashion Advantage event.
In 2013, fashion designer Hilton Hollis felt the urge to give back to his hometown. “I wanted to save my old elementary school. It was in complete disrepair, and was basically boarded up and empty. This gorgeous, 1920’s red brick school building with beautiful architecture and amazing white columns was abandoned,” says Hilton. “It was unbelievable to me that they would let this stunning building go to waste.”
A native Mississippian, Hilton Hollis developed a passion for sewing and design at a young age. In 1997, Hilton moved to New York City, studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology, and trained under some of the world’s most renowned designers. Hilton now designs under his own label, Hilton Hollis, and creates beautiful, wearable pieces for the modern woman.
Hilton partnered with several people from his Carthage class, and The Local Fashion Advantage was born. This year, the evening will begin with a silent auction, and one lucky bidder will win a luxurious package filled with shopping in Atlanta, clothing from Hilton Hollis, and high-end jewelry. Following the silent auction, Hilton will be showing his beautiful Fall 2015 collection, and many local designers and boutiques will be featured as well. During the incredible Runway Show, guests will be dazzled by musical performances, dancing and singing.
Over a few short years, thousands of dollars have been raised, and the handsome building has come to life once again. The old elementary school now serves as a Community Center for special events, and thanks to Hilton and The Local Fashion Advantage, the auditorium finally has an air conditioner. Hilton laughs, “It took 80-plus years to get it air conditioned! It is pretty remarkable.” Little by little, the auditorium has been completely renovated, from the 600 seats to the magnificent velvet curtain. It has rightfully returned to its original splendor.
Beyond the financial aspects of the event, The Local Fashion Advantage has given creative Mississippians an outlet to express themselves. Local designers, hair and makeup stylists, and even aspiring models are welcome to participate. “Last year we had people from Vicksburg all the way to Memphis. We even had a few from Birmingham. It is pretty awesome that a small town like Carthage can pull in that sort of crowd.”
A few young women have even acquired major modeling contracts after walking in the event! Hilton says, “Two years ago we were doing our first local model casting. I was flipping through the head shots and noticed a girl named ‘Hollis.’ I immediately wondered if we were kin! She came in to walk for me and was a complete natural. She was unbelievable and looked like she had been walking in Paris shows for years. Today she has signed with a major model management company in New York City and models full-time!”
The Local Fashion Advantage has encouraged the Carthage community and people throughout the state. “I guess what we have been able to do has inspired people. It is huge that we can make that sort of impact. It goes way beyond the financial impact; it is really about promoting self-worth and being able to do something above and beyond what you think you are capable of,” says Hilton.
We hope you all attend this incredible event, and feel inspired by the creations presented throughout the evening! For more information on The Local Fashion Advantage, please click here. You can also view Hilton’s beautiful collection on his website here.
{Blog by Mitchell Walters}
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