When dozens of queer, trans, and nonbinary models worked the rooftop runway at the Montrose West Hollywood hotel last Friday night, it was a dream realized for event founder Nik Kacy. And it's crazy to think that only four weeks prior Kacy took on the Herculean task of orchestrating Los Angeles's first Equality Fashion Week.
"There are no words to try to convey the thanks that I have for every single person who helped make my dream of Equality Fashion Week become reality," Kacy posted on Facebook the next day, and closed with, "I'm gonna go sleep like the dead now... Bye!"
Hosted by supermodel and trans activist Carmen Carrera (pictured above right with genderqueer author Jacob Tobia), the inclusive fashion show kicked off Equality Fashion Week (October 5-7) with major positive vibes. Models of all shapes, sizes, ages, ethnicities, and gender expressions struted their stuff in some of the hottest LGBTQ designers' threads. The excitement exuded by the models, designers, and onlookers was palpable. The sheer joy one feels at being the person they truly are is really what this event celebrates. Enjoy some of the gorgeous and incredible images captured that night.
Photos by Peter Leal, Frances Iacuzzi, and Desirée Guerrero.
Fashion Equality Week founder Nik Kacy poses with host Carmen Carrera during rehearsals.
Michaé Pulido (L) and Liza Aseballos (R) of TransLatina Coalition were looking lovely while giving out information and free condoms. Proceeds from the event will benefit the L.A.-based nonprofit founded by tireless local trans activist Bamby Salcedo.
Nonbinary model and singer-songwriter Mads Paige (second from left) hams it up with friends on the red carpert before giving a stunning performance during the show.
Out Isreali designer Lior Boroda poses with his gorgeous models on the red carpet.
Actress and drag king Lindsay Coryne got the party started right with her amazing dance moves and boatloads of charisma during the opening performance.
Innovative, all-gender-expression inclusive outfitters Sharpe Suiting was first to hit the runway.
Swinging things to the femme end of the spectrum, couture evening wear maker Lior Boroda wowed the crowd with his sparkling ethereal designs.
Dapper Boi, a gender-neutral, everyday clothing line for androgynous individuals of all body types, kept it sexy by sending several models down the runway topless.
Designer Vicky Pasche (pictured) cofounded Dapper Boi - a gender-neutral, everyday clothing line for androgynous folks of all body types - with wife Charisse after growing weary of shopping in the men's department.
Multitalented model and musician Mads Paige rocked the stage rather than the runway at this fashion show.
The sexy, modern, coven vibe of /FEM/HAÜS had us longing to be the next Supreme.
/FEM/HAÜS design duo Katie Manzella (L) and Regina Del Real (R).
Mortasay gave us food for thought through their beautiful music.
The beautifully androgynous models and fresh threads of Stuzo Clothing were as cool as ice.
Stuzo Clothing founders Stoney Michelli and Uzo Ejikeme.
Nik Kacy's gender neutral footwear and accessories brand closed the show, with models wearing t-shirts emblazoned with positive statements of self love.
Equality Fashion Week founder Nik Kacy takes a final bow at the end of the show.
READER COMMENTS ( )