A fusion of fashion and performance

An explosion of fashion, music, performers, Gombeys and poetry will happen next month in Faceless — where rhythm hits the runway.

The event will be held on Sunday, December 8 at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess featuring a fashion show with performances by local artists, Gombey dancers and much more.

Vernell Brown of Bluprint Inc is organizing the event as part of H&H Gombey’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

Brown said H&H Gombeys wanted to organize a BET Rip the Runway style event featuring much more than fashion. She happily accepted the challenge and has been planning the event for the past year.

“We’re bringing something different to the table than a regular fashion show. 

“Faceless represents the Gombey.

“We had a meeting and I said ‘what comes to mind the most is your identity. No one knows who you are’. When I was actually planning it, I started researching and finding out who would be interested in performing or being a part of it and it evolved to such a magnitude.

“The energy around it is phenomenal. They didn’t expect it would get so big.

“There are so many different types of fashion shows, but this is pretty big so that’s exciting.

Speaking on the designers and performers, Brown said: “It’s all local designers and for some of them, this is their first
fashion show.

“One of the performers, BLAC, he’s got his album coming out in December so he will be performing one of his songs.

“The rest of the artists will sing songs that you already know, popular songs.

“We also have ChewSlam and they’re going to be doing a piece about Gombeys that was performed in the US. I thought it was great — it was perfect.”

Other performers include Bermuda Squad, Mallissa Furbert, John Seymour, Jesse and, of course, H&H Gombey’s.

Designers include Rene Hill Originals, Salvage, Armour by AL and more. There will also be clothing from Tre Basement, New Life Fashions, Mambo, Threadz Bda and more. “Basically, it’s going to be fun and edgy. It’s entertainment.

“A lot of people think they will be bored at a fashion show so hopefully we bring something different to the audience.

“It will be like Rip the Runway, but bringing a Bermudian flavour.”

The hosts for the event are Wayne Raynor and Rashida Monet- both are new to the entertainment scene in Bermuda. Raynor is one of the leaders of
H&H.

Brown said to expect great chemistry between the hosts and a little bit of comic relief.

As for the set up, Brown said the runway is shaped like an H and there is limited seating.

“Every seat is a VIP seat and I really mean that. That was my aim. 

“I put myself in the position of the audience and thought about what I would like.

“It’s not New York Fashion week but it will be similar with a Rip the Runway feel. The performers will perform as the models are walking down the runway. I know it’s a Sunday but you can come after a football game or after going to the movies. 

“Have your dinner and then come and have a great time.”

Brown said all net proceeds of the event will go towards H&H Gombey’s.

In addition to the fashion show, there will be two bars available for drinks and clothing from the show will be on sale that night.

Luxe Salon is doing the hair and O’Faces will do the makeup for the models. Doors open at 7:30pm and the show begins at 8:30pm. Regular tickets are $75 and patron tickets are $100.

They are available through the H&H Leaders or via www.facelessbda.com.