Photo: Suzanne Sausville/WBZ NewsRadio
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — More than 30 designers gathered on the steps of Downtown Crossing to participate in the Boston Fashion Week initiative, Open Runway. Jay Calderin, the founder and executive director of Boston Fashion Week, says designers from all backgrounds and levels, including student designers were able to showcase their work.
"You can be any age, at any stage of your career. And you just sign up and commit to being here with your models ready to go on the runway," said Calderin. "It's a great opportunity to get your work out there. Show it on a model. Get the runway experience. Have photographers take pictures."
Hosted by the Downtown Boston Alliance, the event uses the same format as an open mic night allowing amateur and professional fashion designers to display their work to the public for free. Designers were allowed to enter up to three designs. Leah Prodigalidad, a recent graduate of Massachusetts College of Art and Design, says her pieces honor her Filipino upbringing.
"All of them are kinda related in one form or another. They're inspired by mythological beliefs, my heritage as a Filipina designer," said Prodigalidad.
Calderin along with a panel of leaders in the fashion industry provided live commentary about each designer, celebrating their innovation.
"When I look back there and see them all on the steps, it is just such a treat," said Calderin.
The 31st annual Boston Fashion Week starts October 5.
WBZ NewsRadio's Suzanne Sausville (@WBZSausville) reports.