The Brooks LTD lineup for the Mayor’s Diversity and Inclusion Awards runway show, including myself and Commissioner Tony Smith.  Photo by Kyle David Jones.

It was truly an honor to be included in this special event, which was hosted by the Denver Commission on Aging for an audience of over 300 elected officials, city commissioners and other movers and shakers.  The Commission first approached me, seeking an event program that was a little more ‘out of the box,’ yet needing a community partner that made sense for the theme of the event: “Together for the Ages.”  Knowing that my brand, Brooks LTD, has been a part of Denver fashion for over four decades, they reached out, and I couldn’t have been more thrilled.

StyleCrone aka Judith Boyd is a model of “ageless beauty” on the runway.  Photo by Kyle David Jones.

Denver Commissioner Barbara Evans Small in a custom made gold lame caftan.  Photo by Kyle David Jones.

Model Mallory High in a magenta taffeta occasion dress

Split it up… an evening skirt look in magenta taffeta and red silk top, modeled by Grace Chang.  Photo by Kyle David Jones.

Chic and architectural, this ponte dress is as comfortable as it is stylish. As seen on model Sandi Siegel, shot by Kyle David Jones.

Not only was the Mayor’s Diversity and Inclusion Awards an opportunity to showcase some of my latest couture gowns and bespoke ensembles, but it was also the perfect opportunity to bring awareness to ageism in fashion – a topic that is close to my heart.  I always make it a point to show my designs on women of all ages, races and sizes, and this event was no exception.  My diverse group of 10 professional models and 5 (very brave) commissioner-models strutted the runway, showing that mature women deserve the same respect and reverence as their younger counterparts.  Videographer DigitalPreserve did an amazing job of capturing the ambiance, which you can watch below.

The Brooks LTD designs that were presented at this once-in-a-lifetime event included the gilded looks from my recent Golden Dreams collection, as well as some newer couture gowns in bold magenta, red, and purple hues, and a selection of my fall ready-to-wear collection.  Each model was custom fitted in her ensemble, and the commissioners in particular had their own custom designs completely tailor-made for them.  The highlight of the evening, however, had to be my moment with Mayor Michael Hancock, as well as a special surprise that the Commission on Aging had in store for me.  More on that next week… stay tuned!

A photo op with Denver Mayor Michael Hancock at his Diversity and Inclusion Awards.  Image by Kyle David Jones.

Looking for a custom ensemble for your next special occasion?

I live for designing unique couture gowns and other creative, bespoke ensembles.  If your next holiday party, wedding or other special occasion calls for standing out in a one-of-a-kind dress, please think of Brooks LTD.  Visit the Contact page of my website and we can schedule a time to sit down and discuss your needs.

The post Brooks LTD Celebrates 45 Years of Couture in Denver at Mayor’s Diversity and Inclusion Awards appeared first on Brooks Ltd.

The models and I strike a pose backstage at Latin Fashion Week.  Photo by Ricardo Mejia.

On August 24^th, I was honored to be asked to present my designs in LFWC’s Colorado Designers Night.  As an independent fashion designer who works with clients and models of all ages, shapes, sizes and ethnicities, it felt great to participate and lend my support.  If you’re familiar with my work or follow me on social media (if not, then follow me on Instagram!), then you may already know that I’ve recently made it my mission to bring awareness to the issue of ageism in our society, and in fashion in particular.  So you can imagine my delight when I was approached by the LFWC organizers, and encouraged to bring my diverse group of “mature” models to the runway.  I think it’s safe to say that these 8 stunning ladies lit up the catwalk.

StyleCrone’s Judith Boyd backstage in The Judith headpiece, a style I created that was inspired by her.  You can purchase The Judith here.  Photo by Ricardo Mejia.

The looks I chose for LFWC featured a collection of couture ensembles in a bold palette of purples, reds, and golds, which I’ve dubbed my “Golden Dreams” collection.  My designs are typically known to be colorful and festive, but I wanted to be sure to add a nod to Latina culture for this particular occasion.

#BTS at LFW. Photo by Ricardo Mejia.

Thinking of the costumes of traditional Latin dancers and Carnival festival-goers, I added the bright splash of gold to my otherwise darker fall palette, along with embellishments such as ruffles, feathers and sequins.  I was happy to see that the audience and models alike seemed to resonate with the looks, making it a good night for all involved.

Models Dekota and Esperanza having fun pre-show

One of my favorite looks from the Golden Dreams collection. Check out the magic that Stephanie Fugazzi created with model Dekota’s hair!

Finale walk, as captured by photographer Abad Montoya

For more photos of my Latin Fashion Week “Golden Dreams” debut, check out the lookbook here.

Thank you to Ricardo Mejia for the photographs, as well as Stephanie Fugazzi for the incredible hair, and to Tori Trujillo for the beautiful makeup.

The post Golden Dreams at Latin Fashion Week Colorado appeared first on Brooks Ltd.

This collection was black and red, with pops of pink to go with the theme, “Cityscape to Countryside.” Brooks LTD clothing is all about your attitude and style, no matter the shape of your body or your age. My design aesthetic is diverse and multigenerational, not just for one group of women. And this collection was made to bring this idea to life.

The art of custom making clothes takes patience, perseverance, dedication and skill. The original consultation is where ideas are discussed to determine the silhouette and the fit. A muslin is made based on these discussions.

Meet Keri, a beautiful woman who loves fashion as much as I do. I had a vision of creating the perfect sassy version of a stretch ensemble that was somewhat revealing, but tasteful at the same time. To carry out the theme of the entire collection I added a beautiful lace skirt that made the otherwise casual garment appropriate for the runway, or even a special event in your future.

My vision began with a muslin, a dress form and an idea.

After those adjustments I was ready to perfect the garment with the right zipper, elastic trimming and the adjustable neckline finish. This design has so many possibilities, as the lace skirt is removable and can be worn different seasons with the right leggings and sweater for winter or camisole for summer. The one piece romper would be a great summer party ensemble with or without the skirt.

Once the adjustments were done, we met at a coffee shop to evaluate the design. Of course I couldn’t help myself and asked her to take a fun practice walk in the hallway. We love bathroom meetings!

This is just one piece of the collection I made for all of the models to wear for the fashion show. Each design was made to fit these women according to their body type and style, and I loved seeing the whole collection come together for the big event! Here’s one of my favorite pictures of all of us:

All Runway Photos:  Hardy Klahold Photography

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