Images courtesy of BoldLifestyle Photography
Designer Clara Lawson Ames debuted her 2010 Collection Clara Design to a crowd of over 200 including; representatives from BET Networks, the World Bank, the diplomatic corp, global organizations, media, and Washington’s fashion and social elite at DC's Union Station last week. The event was presented in partnership with Vlisco fabrics, and the Embassy of Burkina Faso. Steve Harvey Morning Show news anchor Taylor Thomas was the master of ceremonies for a program which included a special welcome from the Ambassador of Burkina Faso, the Honorable Ernest Paramanga Yonli. One of the most moving parts of the evening came when the designer spoke about how her success has helped many women back in her homeland of Burkina Faso provide for their families.
Ames receiving applause. Image courtesy of BoldLifestyle Photography
Ames chose the perfect venue to make her splash onto the Washington Fashion scene. Her collection of bold prints in rich saturated colors popped against a back drop inspired by the landscape of West Africa. The high ceilings of Union Station's East Hall were awash in amber hues, while potted palm trees, canopies of sheer citrus colored fabric, and floor pillows served as a runway.
Attendees indulged on savory and sweet treats at a cocktail reception prior to the start of the exposé. The legendary Afro-funk Jazz group Plunky & Oneness entertained throughout the night and straight through the runway show providing a fitting soundtrack for Ames' statement making designs. By mixing simple shifts with tailored pieces and dramatic evening wear, Clara Lawson Ames made good use of Vlisco's Frozen Dreams 2009 fabric collection. Far from the African imagery of the past, Vlisco combines atypical colors with fresh patterns to create fabrics that are both modern and culturally relevant.
The event was produced by Nenyé Productions LLC, a Maryland based event management and marketing firm. Other contributions to the evening included jewelry from Laurice Marshall of www.LauricesPieces.com. Guests received fabric totes as gift bags filled with items from Vlisco, Milani Cosmetics, and Divine Chocolates.
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