This weekend, student designers from the South Florida Fashion Academy (SF/FA) will present their sustainable fashion and red carpet-inspired creations during an immersive runway show in the Arts District of Fort Lauderdale. The event, scheduled for Friday, June 7th, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., will take place at the new YMCA located at 1409 NW 6th Street.
Taj McGill, the founder and creative director of SF/FA, is excited to celebrate the passion and skills of her fashion and beauty students. Since launching the academy six years ago, McGill has seen it grow into a prestigious institution for middle and high school students in Fort Lauderdale, graduating over 1,000 talented individuals, many of whom are Black and Brown students from Broward and Miami-Dade counties.
The Second Annual Student Fashion Show and Portfolio Review will feature unique collections from student designers in front of an audience of 200 guests, including parents, media, and local fashion influencers. “With nearly 80 percent of tickets already sold, this promises to be one of Fort Lauderdale’s most anticipated fashion events of the year,” McGill said. “We are proud to support and empower these young, creative fashion students as they lead the next generation of talented designers.”
This year’s showcase includes designs by Blake Sabrin, Evrose Myrtil, Gabby Isom, Khyla Beaujin, Khyla Purchas, Rosetta Smith, Selicia Robinson, and Terreek Guillaume. Each student will present six to eight looks, ranging from sustainable upcycled fashion capsules to urban streetwear and glamorous red carpet ensembles. “These emerging designers have worked diligently over the past year, and they are excited to share their creations with the world,” McGill added.
A highlight of the event will be the Designer of The Year Award, presented with a scholarship by the academy’s Fashion Director, Mr. Vice. “It’s inspiring to work with these young and passionate students every day. This is why I founded the academy—to help them develop their craft and provide the resources and tools needed to bring their fashion design and beauty concepts to life. The recipient of this year’s award will be revealed at the event, but I can say they are a truly innovative fashion creative,” McGill said.
The evening will also feature live music by DJ Sam Goodman and light refreshments for attendees, bringing together Broward County’s fashion enthusiasts to celebrate the innovative work of SF/FA’s brightest students. “We are extremely proud of this year’s graduates and what they have accomplished. This is a special moment for our entire team and students alike,” McGill continued. “As a Black woman, it brings me immense joy to support young Black and Brown students in fulfilling their destinies.”
SF/FA offers comprehensive programs in fashion design and merchandising, barbering, cosmetology, makeup artistry, skin care, nail technology, business development, and entrepreneurship. “Our goal is to educate, inspire, and foster a creative environment that provides advanced knowledge and entrepreneurial skills,” McGill said. “Our faculty and staff are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of fashion, beauty, and business professionals.”
Interested parties can learn more about Taj McGill, SF/FA, and purchase tickets for this year’s student fashion show online.
instagram.com/tajmcgill
instagram.com/southfloridafashionacademy
southfloridafashionacademy.com
facebook.com/southfloridafashionacademy
