Back-to-school fashion show at Parkway Plaza

Fall is around the corner and it is time to get ready with the news styles, trends, and colors. Wondering what to wear for the upcoming season? Parkway Plaza’s marketing and business development manager Petra Rich produced a fashion show as part of their 50th anniversary celebration. This annual back-to-school fashion show presented the latest trend looks for both men and women from participating stores.

“The event focuses on body positivity and highlighted the latest summer and fall fashion essentials,” said Liese Hoffmire, fashion stylist and creative director. The hosts were model and runway coach Alex Follas and Miss San Diego Central Althea Valdez. Valdez was crowned Miss San Diego exactly one hour before the show and then rushed there to be an emcee.

Fall colors came down the runway in vanilla-latte beige, saffron orange, blue hues, tomato red, and off-white. The Pantone Color of the Year 2022 is Very Peri. This color is a combination of different shades of blue and deep violet with red undertones meant to symbolize the uncertainty and cautious optimism of this era. The color graced the runway, making what was old new again. The current trends have a ‘90s vibe with a much more relaxed fashion. On the runway, models rocked denim jackets and especially ripped jeans. There is a resurgence of vests for both men and women. Flannel shirts were worn by both men and women along with cargo pants. Maxi skirts and short plaid shirts were worn by the girls. Black leather pants and Moto jackets are also in fashion. Do you remember the overalls with one strap down in the ‘90s? That is just one of the many styles to make a comeback.

First down the runway was a classic black-and-white outfit from Drama Kweenz. They specialize in unique fashion for women of all ages and sizes and are new to Parkway Plaza. Next was JCPenney presenting all the latest styles and trends. Windsor presented some dresses that were perfect for homecoming and special occasions. Tillys is a leading specialty retailer of casual apparel and displayed its surf and skate clothing. For those of you who love vintage, check out the restored one-of-a-kind vintage tees and skirts at Tillys. Forever 21 closed the show with their back-to-school collection, receiving a huge applause from the audience.

DJ Mason Dyer spun the tunes for the event. The first 50 people who registered received a gift card from one of the participating sponsors. The event also included raffle prizes, and special deals for back to school shoppers. Jerry’s photo booth was there for extra added fun giving the guests the opportunity to take playful selfies.

Upcoming Events

The Art of Fashion

Fashion show and luncheon presented by The Country Friends and South Coast Plaza at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe on Thursday, Sept. 5. For tickets contact Yvette Letourneau at 858-756-1192, ext. 4.

Strut for Sobriety!

This fashion show and luncheon is presented by A NEW PATH at Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 17. For tickets contact PATH at 619-670-1184.

Children’s Benefit fashion show and luncheon

San Diego SparkleS Foundation, Inc. presents this event from 10:30 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Sept. 17. Located at Hyatt Regency La Jolla. For tickets call Vonnie Madigan at 916-799-8900

San Diego Design Week

The five-day annual event presented by the Mingei International Museum includes many events, such as the International Fashion Show: Diversity Through Design by International Rescue Committee Small Business Development Center at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24. It features work from designers from immigrants and refugees. For entire list of events from Sept. 21-25 contact Gladys Hernandez at 619-732-0789 ext. 452.

— Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in Alpine, California. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher and blogger at www.DianaCavagnaro.com.