The 17th edition of Fashion Week Columbus kicked off on Sunday, Nov. 8, with a three-hour “High Fashion Tea” runway at the upscale Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph. The hotel’s first floor transformed into a glittering ballroom where polka-dot silks, delicate laces and sequined animal prints swirled amid the aroma of freshly brewed teas. Guests sipped bespoke cocktails crafted by Soul at The Joseph while the runway above was set for a Gilded Wonderland-inspired showcase.
Executive director Yiema John of the Columbus Fashion Council highlighted the event’s timing: it lands just weeks before the holiday rush, allowing designers to merge seasonal sparkle with runway drama. She emphasized the council’s core mission – to build “meaningful platforms” for both established creators and the next generation of Ohio talent.
Opening high-tea runway
The opening show paired three curated tea blends – Orange Blossom Oolong, Lady Marmalade Black, and Caramel Cake Rooibos – with bite-size pastries supplied by SadieBaby Sweets. Henri’s Cloud Nine and Silver Confetti Confections provided decorative backdrops that doubled as photo-ops, turning the venue into a living Instagram gallery. The runway itself was a three-course narrative, each segment punctuated by a different tea, underscoring the event’s “fashion meets tea-time” theme.
Designer collections and student showcase
Christopher Widdoes for Henri’s Cloud Nine
First up, Christopher Widdoes presented his collaboration with Henri’s Cloud Nine. Models glided in gowns that married classic silhouettes with contemporary shimmer, offering a timeless yet modern elegance that set the tone for the afternoon.
Maison Louiza – Louiza Couture
Next, Maison Louiza unveiled a line steeped in cultural homage. Designer Louiza explained that each embroidered piece was meant to honor her heritage, turning the runway into a visual dialogue with her ancestors. Rich jewel tones and intricate needlework dominated the collection.
Fiona Rose – modern vintage couture
Fiona Rose followed with a “modernized vintage” aesthetic. Her models wore flowing fabrics brushed with loose beading, striking a balance between vibrant hues and subdued neutrals. One runway participant, Alondra Burgos, described the experience as electrifying, noting how the crowd’s energy amplified her confidence.
Columbus Fashion Academy student designs
The finale spotlighted the Columbus Fashion Academy, where students aged 4 to 16 displayed self-crafted looks. Using donated or recycled materials such as denim, silk, cotton and sequins, the young designers worked under the guidance of mentors Gwen Hatcher and Sareena Vrar. The mentors emphasized a hands-on approach, allowing children to lead the creative process while offering technical support when needed.
Education, mentorship and scholarships
John stressed that partnering with the Academy marked the council’s first direct collaboration with a youth fashion program. “It’s our responsibility to set the stage for the next generation,” she said, noting that the scholarship fund has already awarded $65,000 to central Ohio design students over the past 17 years. Mentors reported that participating in a city-wide show boosted the children’s confidence and gave them a tangible glimpse of a professional fashion pathway.
Complete schedule and ticket options
Fashion Week Columbus runs through Nov. 14, offering eight distinct events across the city. Highlights include a Curve runway celebrating curvy bodies, a Recycled runway with a $600 cash prize for sustainable design, and a finale headlined by “Project Runway” alum Joan Madison. Tickets range from free admission at the Macy’s Destination Holiday Show to $161.69 for the grand finale at Prototype: The Experimental Museum. All events are open to the public, reinforcing the council’s belief that “fashion is for everyone.” For ticket purchases, visit the official link provided by the organizers.
