Fashion Week Alabama
photography by lucidphotography256
written by Senior Fashion Editor Cecelia McLaughlin
I recently had the opportunity to interview Ms. Lejeune (Ellena Smith), the founder of the Alabama Fashion Alliance, to learn more about Fashion Week Alabama.
Q: What is the Alabama Fashion Alliance and what inspired you to start it?
A: The Alabama Fashion Alliance is a marketing platform for the fashion industry, offering resources for starting a business, creating designs, and finding schools/classes. I wanted to create a one-stop resource for all things fashion.
Q: How long have you been producing Fashion Week? What inspired you to put on the first show?
A: We just celebrated 13 years of Fashion Week. I had a vision for the event 13 years ago and followed through with the first show, which was a huge success held at the Von Braun Center.
Q: Who are some of your favorite designers that have joined you over the years and why?
A: Amanda Perna from New York stands out as she showcased her collection right out of the gate for Fashion Week. Youssef Nagib from Nashville and Elise, a 16-year-old winner of our Style Tank Design Competition, are also memorable.
Q: What would you say is the formula for the success of a fashion event?
A: There's no exact formula, but organization, clear communication, and sticking to a budget are crucial. I'd like to focus on the reason for the event rather than trying to impress others.
Q: Is there anything that you aspire to for Fashion Week that you haven’t accomplished yet?
A: I would love to be more hands-on with designers or brands and offer consistent shows throughout the year.
Q: What are you working on as a designer?
A: I'm currently working on a collection for the upcoming Fashion Week in September. My inspiration comes from the need for calmness in today's chaotic world.
Q: What are three words that describe your designs?
A: My designs are clean, precise, and calming with bursts of energy.
Q: What can we expect at this season’s Fashion Weekend?
A: Expect an amazing experience with a focus on sustainability, showcasing couture, ready-to-wear collections, vintage, and the Fashion Forward Awards.
Fashion Week will take place on September 27th and 28th.
grab your tickets here: https://afa-business-of-fashion.ticketleap.com/2024-fashion-weekend-alabama-saturday-finale-runway-fashion-sho/dates/Sep-28-2024_at_0700PM
Cecelia McLaughlin
Cecelia was born and raised in the good ol’ state of Alabama. She went on to be a professional runway model and then once returned home, began mentoring models. Today, she wears many hats including mother, stylist, business owner, and Senior Style editor to name a few. However, her priority is being an inspirational speaker and writer who inspires not only young models to be their best selves, but for everyone who may need inward healing.