Coveted Productions presented The Style Social in Bijou’s Ultra Lounge in Shreveport last Friday night. The women’s mixer was a networking opportunity and glam party.
Guests had their hair and makeup refreshed and munched on cupcakes while supporting and/or being informed of Black businesses.
The event was the same night at the Port City Classic Stroll Off, but a moderate and enthusiastic crowd supported the Social.
“I knew it was a great risk with having the event on this weekend,” said Jaleesa McDowell, the event’s organizer.
“But it still turned out great.”
The lounge bustled with well-dressed women and the occasional gentleman, as everyone from Janelle Monae to Twista reverberated throughout the comfy blue space.
Vendors brought products to sell and discuss with the fashion forward crowd. A designer duo displayed their work.
LaTasha Henderson and Dennis Robinson of VonRay, showcased one-of-a-kind creations that typically range from $20 to $50.
The goal is to make quality products at a reasonable price, said Henderson, who shared that God and dancers are her biggest inspirations.
She said that experience with wardrobe styling dancers prepared her for VonRay.
A few tables away from VonRay was the bubbly Valencia Sneed, a makeup artist of five years.
She willingly offered ladies beauty advice.
“Always do your research before you take it on dry land,” said Sneed.
She emphasized the importance of watching YouTube videos to assess how certain styles might look.
The artist added that sometimes older Black women are afraid to deviate from their makeup norms.
“Never be scared to learn new things,” she said before adding that darker skin allows makeup to pop because of the contrast between pigment and product.
Donchunte Foster of Muse Fashion Group presented her risqué, glittery, party dresses.
The form-fitting showstoppers were diversity friendly, as models of different builds and heights rocked them with confidence.
One such model was the beautiful, blonde Shawnae Combs, a Grambling State University senior and volleyball player from Manhattan, Kan.
“The show was highly anticipated for me.
“I enjoy working with Donchunte and of course wearing her designs,” said Combs.
“There were only five models and two wardrobe changes . It was quite a rush backstage.”
The next Style Social is slated for December.