6-15-26-Patrick Bouquett INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Fort Ben Juneteenth Fashion Show will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 18, at the Fort Ben Farmers Market in Lawrence, Indiana. The runway portion begins at 5:15 p.m. The event celebrates creativity, culture, diversity and community while highlighting Indiana designers and fashion brands. Nicole René, CEO and founder of Passion 4 Fashion Week, leads the Indiana-based fashion development platform, which creates opportunities for designers, models, hairstylists, makeup artists, photographers and other creatives. For nearly a decade, the organization has produced runway events, educational programming and community initiatives that connect fashion with business and economic development. René said the group focuses on early development and mentorship in the industry. “We start at age 4, and we like to show how people can build confidence when they get ready and they want to be an entrepreneur,” she said. “We want to make sure that they are guided in the right direction.” She added that the organization goes beyond producing shows. “Not only do we produce shows and put on shows … we actually get out there and we train all the models, all the designers to take the steps to learn how to make money in this business,” she said. The runway show will feature designs from nine designers, including Nikki Blaine Couture, Trapp, UPART Collection, Restored Village, JFlize, Tony Arrington Designs, Trapp Minkz Thingz, The Echo Collection, Hittin Hard and Monie’s Closet. Models with Passion 4 Fashion Week will showcase looks ranging from streetwear and ready-to-wear to couture and custom designs. The event is a partnership with the City of Lawrence and Arts for Lawrence. René said the collaboration reflects a broader effort to expand arts and culture in the city. “We have partnered with the City of Lawrence and Arts for Lawrence, and we are actually just building a partnership with that team,” she said. “We’re bringing in art, we’re bringing in fashion, just different things that can actually come to the City of Lawrence and help it grow.” She also praised the city’s growth and leadership. “Lawrence is an amazing city. It’s building and coming up so quick and so fast,” she said. René added that the event supports small businesses by connecting them with customers. “When you actually bring fashion or you bring art to that, you already have shoppers there,” she said. “So you’re helping support small businesses. You’re helping them to get their mission out there and let them be seen.” In addition to the fashion show, guests can shop at the Fort Ben Farmers Market. Host by Fabolous Mr. Patrick said he looks forward to engaging with the community. “Being their host, did I expect anything less?” he said. “Meeting the Lawrence community and seeing what the fashion is going to bring. It’ll be my first time actually doing anything in Lawrence.” He also expressed excitement about the event and local leadership. “I’m so excited for her, what she’s got going on out there,” he said. “So I can’t wait to see what we’re going to bring to Lawrence.” René confirmed the event is free and open to the public. “Yes, it’s a free event, and then, of course, you can see some amazing fashion,” she said. For more information about the Fort Ben Juneteenth Fashion Show, visit www.passion4fashionweek.com. ...read more read less