Unleash Your Inner Fashionista: Inside the Dazzling World of the Marisol Deluna 2024 Fashion Show!

Get ready to be dazzled by a world of satin, tulle, chiffon, and sparkles as the Arneson River Theatre transforms into a fashion fantasy land! The Marisol Deluna Foundation's 2024 Community Fashion Show just happened, and it was a riot of creativity, inclusion, and style. This isn't your typical fashion show; it's a platform where participants with special needs and students from 20 area schools get to unleash their inner fashionistas!

The mastermind behind this fabulous initiative, Marisol Deluna, spills the tea on why this event is close to her heart. Her mission? To mentor and ignite a passion in young souls of all abilities, teaching them the magic of self-expression through fashion. Picture this: over 100 students and models lining up by the River Walk, ready to strut their stuff, while Deluna twirls in a dreamy Argentine blue tulle puff dress.

Princesses, puppies, and fashion drama! An audience of 200 eagerly awaits as family and friends debut their custom creations. Mary's on the mic, presenting each unique look—from heart-centric red two-piece dresses to gowns upcycled from thrift finds. Schools like Cambridge Elementary, Edgewood Fine Arts Academy, and the University of the Incarnate Word rocked the stage with jaw-dropping designs. Check out the UIW's award-winning ensembles from their Red Dress Fashion Show.

But wait, there's more! This show isn't just about clothes; it's about confidence, growth, and smashing barriers. Senior Jaylen Phillips stuns in a throwback tapestry dress while serving as a LULAC Council princess. It's all about proving that when it comes to following your dreams, "anyone can do anything."

Ahead of the show, Karen Meyer supports her daughter Leah as she practices her runway walk. Leah, once introduced to Deluna by her phenomenal sister Linda Luna Duffy, hasn't looked back. The Linda Luna Duffy Creative Hope Initiative stands as a legacy of inclusiveness and mentoring at the foundation’s La Villita headquarters.

And guess what? Leah's taking her talents to a whole new level! Meet the soon-to-be-open Mermaid Cafe, co-managed by Leah and her dad, a haven of coffee, gluten-free goodies, and a staff that proudly includes people with disabilities. "You'll soon realize there's no difference; we all crave the same happiness," says Karen Meyer.

This fashion show is more than just a runway affair—it's a revelation. With mentors like Frankie Rivera, Jolene Crisp, and Ava Vargas, the spirit of creativity and collaboration is alive and kicking. And let's not forget the powerhouse, Marisol Deluna. Her infectious energy has everyone rooting to make fashion history.

Feeling inspired? Dive into more stories about this incredible initiative.