The Phantom was brought to the runway at Dallas’ Fashion Industry Gallery on June 13th. Nigerian born designer, Esé Azénabor debuted her superbly intricate designs at her, “Phantom of the Runway” fashion show benefiting Our Hearts Day Center, helping teens and adults with learning disabilities. The audience of high profile influencers filled the room with Dallas’ fashion elite, including Gina Ginsburg, Christine Butcher, Cynthia Smoot, Bri Crum, Jennifer Miller, Rachel Watkins, Bret McKinney, Amanda Ward, Valerie Karnes, and Tara Harper. Celebrity Stylists Laurie Graham, Dawn Mellon, Kristin Smith, Stephanie Quadri and Barri Martin-Paulz

    Forty-eight looks were displayed; dramatic and delicate, hand beaded jumpsuits and gowns. Guest were dazzled at the audacious designs that sashayed down the runway--the glare of camera flashes danced across the hand embellished designs in an exquisite display of craftsmanship by the designer.

Azénabor learned the art of beading from her mother and her grandmother. Her native traditions and fascination for heavy beading, lace and embroidery epitomize her designs. With inspirations from vintage, African, Egyptian and contemporary European influences, Azénabor’s ideas are works of art.

 The show closed out to an uproarious applause from guest and attendees praising the designer for a superbly beautiful collection and a job well done. If you were not acquainted with Esé Azénabor previously, then it will be hard to miss her in the not so distant future. She is a rising star on the fashion scene and one to keep on your radar for years to come.

Picture Source - Shana Anderson Photography