On Dec. 5, Fashion Week San Diego collaborated with Young Black and ‘N Business, a new local magazine and network organization in San Diego. This inaugural “Year of the Partnership Gala” was a black-tie event at Sycuan Casino and Resort. Together FWSD and the Young Black and ‘N Business kickstarted the Diversity Designer and Cultural Program, which will raise funds for designers in underserved areas of the community. The event will be featured in the official first print of the Young Black and ‘N Business manuscript in 2022.

During this event FWSD’s current top designer, Sierra Mitchell, showed a six-piece collection using multinational models. She creates garments by combining hand-cut materials with traditional sewing techniques. FWSD hopes to bring awareness to talented designers of various cultural backgrounds such as African American, Native American, Pacific Islander, Hispanic, and more.

Meteorologist of CBS8 News, Karlene Chavis, was mistress of ceremonies for the evening. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria gave the opening remarks and presented the City of San Diego Certificate of Recognition to the Young Black and ‘N Business. The keynote address was given by Councilwoman Monica Montgomery Steppe.

She also presented Young Black and ‘N Business Day in San Diego by Declaration of the City Council. The affair also included a red carpet mixer, a resource fair, and power networking.

The proceeds of the event go to the Diversity Designer & Cultural Program.

Gwen Bates, director at FWSD said: “We are proud to work with Young Black and ‘N Business to bridge the gap between these two organizations and come together for a good cause ending the year on a high note of togetherness and achievement. The goal of this program is to provide a showcase, create exposure and help underrepresented brands with a successful launch.”

FWSD is hoping to raise enough to give one or two designers, in an underserved community a full business package and showcase of their iconic platform. FWSD is a launching pad for emerging designers bringing consumers direct contact with designers through annual events, social media, and sales opportunities. They are the largest fashion event in California going 10 years strong.

They are beginning their annual fundraiser and currently are taking applications for designers that will run through Jan. 31, 2022. The next 2022 official FWSD Runway Show will be Oct. 8-9 at the Andaz Hotel in San Diego. Stay tuned for social events and updates during the year at FashionWeekSD.com.

Through Jan. 23, 2022- MartyO: Social Security and SAKI: Birds of a Different Feather at the Oceanside Museum of Art located at 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside. These fashion inspired exhibits are a commentary on the stereotypic and repressive roles projected onto women over the last century.

Sunday, Jan. 16, 2022 – Bridal Bazaar with fashion shows presented by Gretchen Productions at the San Diego Convention Center. Three shows presented during the day. For more info: 760-334-5500.

Through Feb. 27, 2022 – “Language of Textiles” exhibit on Japanese textiles at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park. Open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. General admission is $12.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the San Diego area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher and blogger at www.DianaCavagnaro.com.