The Autumn Gineen Trunk Show
Showcased Custom Couture for Curvy Fashionistas
By Megan Davis
The Truth Contributor
The
passion for fashion isn’t all that Autumn Gineen has when it
comes to her custom work. Within the lining of her fabric
lies the story of the struggle women face – the pressure of
society to look a certain way, the images in media, shunning
the curvier physique or taunting the less shapely. This is a
struggle Gineen recognizes and is channeling through her
passion for clothing design for the greater good.
On
Saturday February 24, her debut Trunk Show featured original
designs for the upcoming prom season. Her canvas was a
variety of body shapes, local models she hand-selected to
create wearable masterpieces. Against the backdrop of an
array of local artists in Toledo’s only African-American art
gallery – The Truth Art Gallery, models strolled through the
audience of welcoming guests, a wonder to witness.
“One of
the designs that was new for me was the Muslimah design. I
have studied it for a while, but this is the first time I
had the opportunity to create fashion like this, “ said
Gineen, reflecting on the process that lead to the runway.
The
reaction of the guests, their faces lightening up as the
models took to their walk, was the highlight of the event
for her. “Did she really make that? I want that one!” were
some of the remarks the audience couldn’t contain. A
soft-spoken woman, Gineen was overwhelmed with excitement
because of the spirit in the gallery.
A
multidimensional artist, Autumn also designed and crafted
the jewelry on display and, in her spare time leading up to
the show, provided the luscious catered goods that guests
enjoyed. |