I Did My First Fashion Show — Here’s What That Meant for Me
I can’t believe I’m even saying this out loud, but…
I did my first fashion show.
And yeah, it still sounds a bit surreal.
I didn’t go to fashion school.
I never imagined I’d be creating clothing as a form of self-expression — let alone showing it on a runway.
This whole thing started out of curiosity and a bit of a necessity.
Being a thrifter for so many years, I had developed a knack for a capsule closet that represented sustainability and personal style. I wanted to explore slow fashion but couldn’t afford the brands I admired. And I was frustrated by the lack of good-quality, thoughtfully made clothing at an accessible price point. So I started making clothes I desired to wear.
Even now, I struggle with imposter syndrome. I catch myself wondering, who’s going to take me seriously?
But when I slow down — not to self-pity, but to truly reflect — I realize:
I am a designer.
I am making fashion pieces.
What I create is about more than fabric — it’s about self-expression.
My style might be quiet. Timeless. Meant for movement and longevity. But that doesn’t make it less valuable. And if it takes time for my work to be seen as “high fashion,” that’s okay.
Because for this first show, I just wanted to be honest. I wanted to share me: A blend of Eastern heritage and Western style and independence. A personal story told in linen, pleats, and silhouettes that feel like home.
Let me tell you about the looks:
🖤 Vic — The long shirt over black pants. This is my definition of chic. The obvious choice might’ve been no pants — but I love the structure of a strong bottom layer. It’s a subtle defiance, it’s urban style, its boss b8tch.
🌿 Sarah H — A total dream. That vest and shorts combo? I WISH it looked that good on me — because as a working woman in my 30s that loves style, I’d live in this outfit. Soft tailoring, powerfully feminine.
✨ Joy — My take on the classic two-piece. Timeless, clean, reliable — but still with character, especially with a pop of accessory. It’s a comfort piece that lives in your closet for decades.
🪷 Niharika — I knew one look had to feature a saree. That’s such a core part of my identity. A saree isn’t just traditional — it’s versatile, it’s sustainable, and it tells stories across generations. There’s nothing like it.
🔥 LeoNia — The flirty, playful part of me. A few buttons undone, a flash of skin, a swinging hem that catches the breeze as you walk. It plays into the male gaze just enough — but always on my terms, and always classy.
Showing these looks on the runway, worn by strong ladies I know and love— it was a full circle moment.
All the jewelry for the show was provided generously by my friend and colleague Ilona of Mable & Rose Upcycled and handmade jewelry.
Thanks for being here with me, especially in these in-between moments where I’m still becoming.
– Sara 🌿