By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

 

If you missed the inaugural fashion show, a second chance to see local models rock the runway is here.

Forty Plus Models Fashion Show, of Houston, is returning to Orange with a Summer Fashion and Hat Show at 4 p.m. Saturday, June 29 at 1113 North 2nd Street in Orange.

This year, the event will include male models during the Hat Show section of the event.

Last year, not only did Debra Lockett, President/CEO of Callie Lewis-Watson and The Forty Plus Models, Inc., bring the latest in fashions for women with curves, she also brought a fast and upcoming hat designer, John Williams.

Williams, of J. Henley Couture, is inspired by the big hats he would see in church, he said after the show last year.

Lockett, while MCing the show, offers fashion tips to get the most out one’s wardrobe.

Forty Plus Models, Inc. was first a dream conceived by Callie Lewis-Watson.  The desire to present mature models on the runway became a reality in May 1990 when forty friends of Callie came together to present the first Forty Plus Fashion Show.  The show paid tribute to Mildred Johnson, Houston’s first black runway model.  The show was held at the Stouffer Hotel in Houston, Texas.
The Forty Plus Models, Inc. was officially organized in January of 1993.  The goal of the Forty Plus Models, Inc. is to show women over forty that they can be beautiful, graceful with mature and dignified styles from a size zero to a size 24, according to the official website. 

Debra Lockett, Callie Lewis-Watson’s daughter, carries on the tradition as the new President/CEO of Callie Lewis-Watson and The Forty Plus Models, Inc.

Lockett, with Wythel Price, formerly of Orange, are helping coordinate the event here in Orange.

Forty Plus Models, Inc. Fashion Show is also a scholarship fundraiser.

The purpose of the organization is to sponsor and promote fashion shows designed to improve the image of mature women and men as well as to provide scholarships for the “average” high school senior and to support leadership and awareness within the community.

The event is free to the public. Offerings will be accepted but not required to attend.

Refreshments will be served during the show.