Sew Modest Studio
Presents
The Story of Self
This fashion show is the culmination of 6 designers going through a 6 month design fellowship with the goal of digging into ourselves, the interconnection of our stories, our lives, and our ancestry as a source of design inspiration. The Theme for this year's design challenge is "The Story of Self". It's a Fashion Design competition in which each designer is challenged with not only creating a beautiful collection of couture clothing; but also amplifying and telling their story on the main stage. It is an opportunity for the community to truly engage in learning, preserving and advocating for ourselves. To tell the stories that serge through our "Long Body" powerful tells that stir the soul, give our ancestors their rights and blow into the hearts, rekindling the interconnectedness of our humanity.
Event Details
Tickets
$35
Couples - $55
Group - 5 tickets $125
At the door - $45
Date and time
Saturday, August 16th 2:30pm to 6:30pm.
Doors open at 2:30. 2:30 - 3:00 Meet and Greet with the Designers. Guests are invited to chat with the designers and learn more about them prior to the main stage events.
3:00 to 4:00 - Rising Designers - Summer Camp Kids Showcase and intermission with dessert and refreshments provided.
4:15 to 6:00 Main Stage - 5 Designers Tell their Story and Present Collections.
6:00 to 6:15 Final Audience Voting
6:20 Announcement of competition winner!
Location
Motivational Museum Art Gallery
9342 Joseph Campau Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212
LIVE AUDIENCE VOTING - YOU ARE THE JUDGE!
It's a Fashion Design competition in which each designer is challenged with not only creating a beautiful collection of couture clothing; but also amplifying and telling their story on the main stage.
The audience will vote in real time. You will get to cast your vote for:
Most Compelling Story of Self.
Aesthetic and Technical Complexity/Execution of their Collection
Bettye Curry
As a child, I listened to stories of plantation owners, racial violence, and loved ones chased and killed simply for the color of their skin. These stories were set against a backdrop of long, hot summers—days filled with both joy and pain. I didn’t yet understand the world’s complexities, but I knew my family carried an inner strength born of generations who had endured.
At the age of four, my life changed dramatically. My mother, newly divorced, gathered her courage and moved us—me, my brother, and my sister—from Georgia to Detroit. Her decision wasn’t just about economic opportunity; it was a move of survival and hope. In the early 1960s, the South was no place for a Black woman raising children alone. The three-day drive to Detroit, undertaken by two Black women navigating unpaved roads and deep-rooted discrimination, was dangerous. They couldn’t stop for food, only for gas—safety was never guaranteed. Knowing what I know now, it was nothing short of a miracle that they made it.
My Collection is called:
Southern Roots
For this collection my aesthetic is a mix of classic tailored elegance with mod influences.
Gi’ana Denise
I’m a 20 year old professional designer and sewing instructor. My passion for fashion started when I was just a kid. When I was 10 years old I received my first sewing machine and that was the start of my journey. Today, I run my own custom design business, Houzeofgigi, where I specialize in creating one of a kind gowns tailored to each client’s vision. In addition to working with clients, I also serve as the lead instructor for the children’s sewing classes and hand embroidery courses.
My Collection is called:
Black Beauty (A Modern Renaissance)
For this collection my aesthetic is alluring meets warrior princess.
Robin Scott
I am a 54 year old newlywed. I have been a Wayne County Sheriff for over 34 years. I’ve been a part of the Sew Modest family for over 4 years. My collection is about healing through self and the village I’ve formed. This collection pays homage to my dearly departed mother through not only the story I tell but also the stitches I sew. This collection speaks to not only being broken but also the healing through life and love.
My Collection is called:
Robin’s Blues
For this collection my aesthetic is alluring, chic, and romantic with a touch of classy
Ravyn Hill
I am a professional seamstress! An instructor in garment construction, alterations, crochet, and crochet upcycling. As well as a fashion and crochet designer. I started my my sewing journey in November 2020 during the pandemic. December 2020, I started classes here at Sew Modest Studios. In my almost 4 years as an instructor here, my knowledge and expertise have grown exponentially. If you are in need of alterations, custom crochet, and fabric designs, I’m am just a call away.
This Collection “This is A Recipe” highlights the lessons I learned cooking with the ones I love.