This past Saturday, the elegant ballroom of the Jacquard Hotel in Cherry Creek North became the stage for a dazzling display of rising talent and bold creativity as six emerging designers unveiled their visionary mini collections. With the room buzzing with anticipation, fashion lovers gathered for an unforgettable evening of innovation, style, and storytelling through fabric and form.

Each designer brought a distinct aesthetic to the runway, competing for the chance to showcase a full collection at spring’s Denver Fashion Week. Two designers would rise to the top—one chosen by the judges, the other by the audience.

Here’s a look at the designers:

Medicine Mender
A kaleidoscope of color and creativity, these upcycled ensembles were artfully quilted and pieced together into garments that radiated joy and playfulness. Everyday t-shirts were transformed into layered skirts, reimagined with purpose and flair. Medicine Mender proves that sustainability and style can not only coexist—they can shine. This brand isn’t just designing clothes—it’s mending the world one vibrant stitch at a time.

Timeless Trends by Amelhiah Tene — Judges’ Winner
Rooted in heritage and pulsing with life, Amelhiah’s island-inspired collection honored cultural legacy with sensual silhouettes and effortless confidence. From handwoven pieces to … Read more!

Some friendships take an unexpected scenic route before coming full circle, and mine with Skye is no exception!

The College Years
Way back in the 90s, Skye and I first crossed paths as students at Metropolitan State University, sitting in creative writing classes and dreaming of where life would take us. Little did we know, our creative journeys would weave in and out of each other’s lives in ways we never expected.

An Unexpected Connection
Fast forward decades later, and life threw us back together in the most unexpected way—through architecture! At the time, my (now) husband, Patrick, was Skye’s architect, and that surprise connection rekindled our friendship. From there, we teamed up to open Sky Bar, a cocktail lounge in Stanley Marketplace, adding yet another chapter to our story.

Back to Our Fashion Roots
But at the heart of it all, fashion and creativity have always been our true calling. I founded Fashion Denver in 2004, building a platform to support local designers, while Skye launched Factory Fashion and her own stunning fashion collection, Skye Aire.

Now, we’re teaming up again—not over cocktails, but over creativity, couture, and community—as we creating fashion at our Fashion Denver … Read more!