Epic Rocks Fashion Show struts its stuff

Models hit the runway during the Epic Rocks Fashion Show Saturday, 09/25/10, at the Grand Aire Hangar at Toledo Express Airport.

Fashionistas in need of a dose of the latest trends are sure to get exactly what the designers ordered at the 4th Annual Epic Rocks Fashion show Saturday at Grand Aire Hangar at the Toledo Express Airport.

This weekend's event promises to be a multi-media fashion affair with high energy, entertainment, and stylish threads.

"We wanted to bring something unique to the community, something you don't see in Toledo, Ohio," said Paulette Cousino, director of EPIC Toledo, the organization that puts on the show.

EPIC Toledo is a project of the Chamber of Commerce and was started in 2007 to attract and retain young professionals in the Toledo area. EPIC stands for "encouraging people, inspiring change."

The organization features more than 1,000 individual members and 40 corporate members.

The fashion show will feature local models ripping the runway in some of fall's hottest fashions in a choreographed show by Wendi Davis of SB Entertainment Group.

"The fashions featured will be the latest trends for fall 2011 from our boutiques which carry many designer brands," Ms. Cousino said. "We also have an added twist by showcasing the fashions from Harley Davidson."

The Harley Davidson collection is loaded with leather jackets and vests and gloves and boots with metal hardware.

Other collections will take on a softer look, including formal attire, outer and casual wear.

The show will feature fashions from local retailers Sophie's Sister, Vivian Kate, Elegant Rags, Meig, Ticknors, and Roth Coats & Accessories.

A disc jockey will play the latest hit songs and a live band will rock out the show. Special musical guests include Tatiana Owens, Emma & Brynn Flory, and in theory, a three-time winner of The Blade's Battle of the Bands alternative rock category.

New this year is a tribute to breast cancer survivors, who will rock the runway in a special presentation before the main event. Local survivors were nominated by friends, family, and coworkers for a chance to strut their stuff on the catwalk.

Silicone bracelets to support breast cancer research and awareness will be sold at the event.

Doors open at 8 p.m. and guests must be 18 or older to attend. A VIP pre-party will be held from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. for VIP ticket holders and includes Italian food by La Scola and beverages.

General admission tickets are $20 each and available at the gate. VIP tickets are $100 each and include admission to the pre-party gala.

The show is geared toward young adults and will showcase lots of local acts, Ms. Cousino said.

"Instead of focusing on just one amazing local talent, we're going to have some dancers, singers and rappers," Ms. Cousino said. "There's a lot more this year than there has been in the past. It's going to be a night of great entertainment."

Contact RoNeisha Mullen at rmullen@theblade.com or 419-724-6133.