Dozens of plus-size models will strut the runway in Fayetteville on Saturday.
I AM PLUSH, a fashion show now in its sixth year, brings local designers and models into the spotlight at 5:30 p.m. at the Diamond Venue, 328 Gillespie St.
About 200 are expected to attend the event, which includes a segment honoring veterans and a performance from local hip-hop artist Bergo Husky.
It’s hosted by Purusha Jones-Shearin, who is a jewelry designer and Ms. Full Figured NC Pageant director based in the Raleigh area.
Most of the 41 models and seven designers featured are local, organizer Anedra Walls said, with some coming from Tennessee, Georgia and Virginia.
The event is centered around a message of self-confidence and body positivity, Walls said.
“We’re going to put on a fabulous show,” she said. “This is a show for all.”
Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite:
- General admission tickets are $30.
- Military general admission tickets are $30 and include access to a military VIP lounge with charcuterie and a wine tasting.
- VIP tickets are $55 and include access to a VIP A bar, catering and a swag bag.
Before and after the show are three I AM PLUSH events around Fayetteville, Walls said.
- Karaoke night is at 9 p.m. Thursday at Heart & Soul Soul Food and Lounge.
- Dinner and drinks at Cru Lounge, 114 Gillespie St., is at 8 p.m. Friday. Reservations on Resy are encouraged.
- A fashion show afterparty is at 9 p.m. Saturday at Privlege Lounge, 3213 Cedar Creek Road.
Until Dirty South Muddz Daquiri on Yadkin Road restaurant closed, Walls hosted weekly I AM PLUSH nights.
“It was a safe space for plus-size partygoers to be able to let loose in an environment that’s inclusive,” she said.
Walls said she hopes to resume that event at another spot, potentially a venue of her own. She also plans to host a back-to-school party and a kids’ fashion show next year.
Another event is in the works for this spring, but more details will be released at the conclusion of Saturday’s fashion show, she said.
“I’m excited,” she said. “People definitely should stay through the end of the show.”
Food, dining and culture reporter Taylor Shook can be reached at tshook@gannett.com, on Twitter, or Facebook. Want weekly food news delivered to your inbox? Sign up for the Fayetteville Foodies newsletter.
