“The Power of Women” on display at Boston Fashion Week’s opening night event

Models, designers and admirers alike celebrated Boston Fashion Week’s 24th year on Sunday, Sept. 30, at the official opening night event, “The Power of Women, The Future of Boston Fashion.”

The event was held at 100 Federal St., which was formerly known as the First National Bank Building. The runway was under a glass ceiling that showed off the surrounding skyscrapers. The large crowd was treated a short film documenting the different Boston-based designers that will be featured during the week, fashion presentations, and a runway show to close off the night.

To fit this year’s theme, Melina Cortes-Nmili, Gina deWolfe, Meghan Doyle, Joelle Fontaine, Graciela Rivas Leslin, and Cecile Thieulin were chosen to represent just that. Jay Calderin, Boston Fashion Week founder, said, “As you can see, our theme, ‘The Power of Women,’ runs through all aspects of our community … Ever since I started in the industry, I have learned so much and been so inspired by women.”

While Jay commended his mother for teaching him how to love women for their mind and their bodies, he dedicated the night to Linda Cole Petrosian, who he said was “someone whose life was a tribute to the power of women.”

Linda passed away in the beginning of this year and is remembered as a “local legend on the catwalk and a shining star on the pages of many publications.” Jay said he remembers how “her bright smile and joyful spirit filled every room she entered.”

The clothing that was shown on the catwalk represented every type of woman. It gave a wide variety that ranged from the everyday working woman to evening gowns for special events. These designers truly reflected the week’s theme in their clothing and made the night special by empowering women across Boston and remembering those who empowered us.

(For more information about Boston Fashion Week, including a list of events, go to http://www.bostonfashionweek.com/.)

–Oct. 3, 2018–