WHEELING, WV — The inaugural Wheeling Fashion Week premiered Saturday night at Waterfront Hall, offering local models the opportunity to walk an actual runway in the Friendly City. The first-time event was a resounding success, selling out three times with over 150 attendees.
Emily Rouse, the founder and chair of the event, is a Wheeling native who spent time in New York City and wanted to bring her experiences from the New York fashion scene back to her hometown.
“This isn’t just for New York and Los Angeles, why couldn’t Wheeling have something like this? It’s something that’s coming up more in the smaller cities and I think it’s important to show the vibrant fashion scene and how much it’s growing here in Wheeling,” said Rouse.
The event featured nine local designers, ranging from boutiques to accessory creators, showcasing a wide array of fashion. Local stores like Two Times Clothing and Collections had the chance to present their work.
Payton Bourgeois, owner of Two Times Clothing and Collectibles, expressed excitement about the turnout. “Even to say that 200 people in Wheeling care about fashion this much I think it’s overwhelming and sets us up on a good course for next year,” said Bourgeois.
The nonprofit initiative was organized by several local youths. Committee member Spencer Porter highlighted the community’s enthusiasm for the event.
“It is a testament to how much life there is here, how excited we are here, how much vibrancy there is here, and really just a community effort to make life fun in Wheeling,” said Porter.
Organizers hope to hold the fashion week again at the same time next year.
