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Local designers battled it out for a chance to win cash prizes and a trip to New York Fashion Week while showcasing their creations in the highly anticipated 4th annual Fashion Showdown.

Contestants fought to capture the attention of the elite panel of judges, including co-founder of FUBU J. Alexander Martin Ph.D., celebrity designers Danny Nguyen and Rocky Boston, and fashion talent coach William Harris. Berry Dynamic and JB Brown hosted the show. Main sponsor of the event was attorney Willie Powells. Bayou Beat News was another proud sponsor.

Fashion Showdown was launched in Houston by actress and model Chekesha Johnson in 2018. After being featured on three seasons of Project Runway, Johnson decided to bring this opportunity to Houstonians to help creators move one step closer to their dreams.

Photo courtesy: Terry Thomas Photography

“I wanted to create a space for designers to not only show off their line but feel a sense of accomplishment for all of their hard work,” Johnson said. “There’s more to a fashion show than just sending models down the runway. We wanted to create a showdown where their designs are truly appreciated and remembered.”

Contestants included Toya Jewel, Bryesiah Bahmam, Ken White, Monica Velez and Shanobia Stovall.

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The celebrity judges evaluated the contestants based on creativity, presentation, and quality of designs. In the end, White took home top honors, receiving a career-changing reward to the Big Apple, and a cash prize to start a new collection.

“I’ve worked with some of the top brands in the industry like Neil Hamil Agency and State Management,” Johnson said. “The Fashion Showdown is my way of giving back to my hometown and sharing my expertise to support the future innovators in this city.”

For her efforts, Johnson was surprised with an official proclamation from the City of Houston.

Johnson has over 20 years of modeling and acting experience. She’s been featured in over 75 brands and commercials such as Aveeno, L’Oreal, Whataburger, Essence magazine, Nike, JC Penny, and many more. This year, she will introduce her nonprofit, Queens Foundation, to benefit low-income minority youth. The 501c3 will offer programs related to performance, arts, leadership, mentorship, self-confidence, and clothing drives. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the foundation to sponsor children in upcoming summer camps at Future Stars of Houston.

The event was held at 6704 Harrisburg Blvd. It opened with a VIP mixer, followed by the show. For more information, visit www.thefashionshowdown.com.