Embellished

The 2nd Annual EMBELLISHED Wearable Arts Fashion Show returned at Dimension Nightclub, bringing music, fashion, and community together to support the Bayshore Arts District, Inc. 

This year’s theme, Broadway, Beethoven, and Bon Jovi, guided the one-of-a-kind wearable art designs showcased on the runway. The event raised funds for a planned 10,000-square-foot creative hub for local artists. 

The evening opened with a red carpet preshow hosted by Mimy von Schreiner-Valenti. DJ Just Jake provided music before the show and during the post-runway dance party. Kimberly Columbia served as runway MC, co-chairing the event with Josey Prior. Vicki Tracey was honorary chair, and NYC jewelry designer Amanda Jaron directed the show. 

“Fashion is the only art form we all wear,” Jaron told the crowd. “It only comes to life on the human form - it’s a living, breathing expression of who we are.” 

Several local artists and designers brought their talents to the runway, including fiber artist Stacie Krupa, known for her hand-painted garments; jewelry designer and show creative director Amanda Jaron, who presented her sculptural pieces alongside designs by her daughter, Alanna Jewel Jaron; and Nancy Iannitelli, who extended her two-dimensional art background into sculptural food presentations for the event. Also featured were Kathi Kilburn, who debuted her handmade pink leather handbags, and designer Marie Rhatigan, whose work was styled by Colour US Salon. 

The show paid tribute to Jacqueline Morelisse, recognized for her contributions to art education and community engagement. 

Live and silent auctions gave attendees the chance to purchase wearable art pieces, with proceeds supporting the next phase of the Studios @ the Bayshore Arts District. Plans include private studios, a photography studio, a community gallery, and classroom space. 

A student collection from Grace Place Summer Academy was also featured. Middle school students, mentored by JuJu Jacobs, Josey Prior, and Amanda Jaron, presented original designs. Fifty percent of proceeds from the collection will benefit Grace Place programs. 

The fashion show closed with a dance party, continuing the high-energy atmosphere and reinforcing Bayshore Arts District’s mission to foster creativity in Naples.