Local Designer Heads Finale

Fashion Week Columbus begins Sunday, Nov. 8, with a series of eight events running through Nov. 14. The 17th annual event is organized by the Columbus Fashion Council, a nonprofit based in the city. The week’s theme is "Your Body is a Work of Art," according to a press release from the council.

Joan Madison, a Reynoldsburg-based bridal designer, will headline the 17th Annual Finale Runway Show on Nov. 14. Madison owns Joan’s Bridal Couture, located at 7374 E. Main St. in Reynoldsburg. She is also an alum of the television series "Project Runway."

Yiema John, executive director of the Columbus Fashion Council, stated that the organization is focusing on investing in the local fashion community. "We are, for sure, really doubling down on our investment in the community," John said. "It is no secret that it is a challenging year for a lot of nonprofits, and I think that a rising tide lifts all ships."

Events are scheduled across various Columbus locations. The Ohio State Luncheon will take place at Campbell Hall. The Curve Runway Show is set for the Columbus Museum of Art. The Finale Runway Show will be held at Prototype: The Experimental Museum.

Madison began creating clothing at age seven, selling Barbie doll outfits from her lunchbox at school. She made her first bridal gown at age 13. In 2000, she opened a bridal boutique for custom couture gowns. In 2006, she opened Joan’s Bridal Couture, a full-service bridal salon.

Madison has participated in Fashion Week Columbus since 2013. She said she was introduced to the event through her work in the bridal industry. "This year, I will be the first local designer to headline," Madison said. "It kind of gives me a reflection of my experience with them, and then I get to look at my career and, just to see where I was 13 years ago with them, and then where I am today."

The Luxe Levels Fashion Show is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 12. John described the event as a "girls’ night out type of show" featuring food, a DJ, and music. The event is hosted by a woman-owned business owned by Jasmine Tucker, whom John described as philanthropic and community-minded.

Madison plans to showcase a collection representing her life’s body of work, including iconic pieces. "My pieces are statement pieces. I pretty much call them ‘wearable art’," Madison said. "My pieces are very empowering. I like to tell a story with my collections."

John said the event aims to provide real-world experience for emerging designers. "There’s nothing quite like having to select your models, having to do the marketing and also having a stylist on-hand to help make sure that your models are fitted and able to go down the runway successfully," John said. She noted that the organization wants to show Ohio State students various ways to live and thrive in the region.

Registration is required for all events. Tickets can be purchased through the Columbus Fashion Council website, starting at no cost for the Macy’s Destination Holiday Show.