Taggart handpicked the designers from the Michigan and Midwest area to have their designs featured in the show. Among them was Terrance Eaddy, designer of Debonaire Collective. 

“It felt really amazing," Eaddy said. "This is actually my first show, I’ve never done a show before. I was offered it by the president Takai and Jordan, and it was amazing to see my dream come to life. I’ve been into fashion since I was 12, so it’s a full-circle moment.”  

Models sporting Eaddy’s designs wore trucker hats with the words ‘Debonaire Collective’ across the runway.

Designer Alex Passick of Ace Grime said this experience was also his first time having his designs featured on a runway. His designs are primarily focused on streetwear fashion, including hoodies, t-shirts, baby tees and hats.

“It’s kind of surreal," Passick said. "I’ve never done something like this, I’ve done a few pop-ups, but when you actually have to piece together outfits for people, it's a whole other feeling. Walking on stage, seeing them walk on stage viewed in that context is a completely different feeling and I think that every brand owner should do it and experience that.”  

Audience member Miracle Whitfield said her favorite piece of the night was from designer Valdez Hodge.

Hodge's brand is called Dezdelmar. His designs showcased a range of puffer coats and vests that used material to create faces resembling a skull-like face on the back of the coat. He gets his inspiration for his designs by looking at clothes through an artistic lens.

“The inspiration behind my designs stem from an art perspective, so I like to translate art into clothing,” Hodge said. “I’d like to extend my brand forever. So, like once I'm gone, I'd want the brand to live on forever and never be forgotten and keep going.”  

After the show, the designers set up tables outside of the ballroom to showcase and sell their designs. Audience members were given the opportunity to speak with designers about their clothes, get more information about their brands and purchase their clothes. 

“It’s always a pleasure to showcase my work to potential customers or supporters,” Hodge said. 

The number of audience members was what Taggart appreciated most.

“I’m most proud of the turnout, honestly," Taggart said. "I feel like we almost had a full house and I’m really grateful for that surprise. We made a lot of money for our (organizations) and everything, so I’m really proud of that.”