July 11, 2007: Enveloped in the mystery of ‘Asian Nights’, the island’s fashion genius- Charla Connor wooed an overly expectant crowd left swooning from last year’s ‘Another Dash of Panache’. Light drizzle threatened to damper the evening’s events but the weather only affected a prompt start as everything else ran smoothly.

Since her success last year Charla has created a website where her fans and potential buyers can view not only her designs but her models and learn about the line itself and what it represents to her. The website, www.panachecouture.com  is evidence that Panache Couture is driven to continue expanding to receive the regional and international recognition the works deserve.

The night, Sunday July 8,  began with a ‘sing-sational’ performance by last year’s cutest star of the show- Miss Laesha Hobson. Her performance served as the backdrop for presentation of the "Resilience" summer line modeled by child models.  Next in Resilience were the belles of Panache Couture who showcased the line featuring volume, shape, bold prints and loud colours which the designer claimed are a ‘must-have’ this summer. Charla translated dimensions that could easily cause confusion into beautiful chaos. Potential buyers are cautioned to wear with confidence. The music was exciting and the models moved lightly and quickly to its  beat.

After the first segment Nakishma Rogers and Hayden Hughes emerged as the hosts of the evening.

Roland Bascombe  a guest designer of the House of Rojoe-Barbados was next on staged. He displayed his designs on young, handsome Anguillian male models moving suavely to Buju Banton’s latest hit- Driver. After his segment which riveted the female attendants to the edge of their seats he thanked Charla and Anguilla for a very warm welcome and expressed his desire to return to the island in more flare. Mr. Bascombe, in the business for over twenty years, also expressed pride in the amazing turn-out Charla managed to pull for such a young, fledgling designer in the industry.   

The intermission soon trailed and the Miss Anguilla 2007 contestants made an appearance in wonderfully Asian atmosphere.  There were round, Chinese, hanging lights over the runway, Chinese fans and more to go along with the theme, ‘Asian Nights’. Matching the Asian décor that highlighted the auditorium snacks were available in Chinese take out boxes.

A token of appreciation in the form of flowers were presented to Angela Ruan- a key ingredient to Panache’s success through her dedication and encouragement.

The next segment entitled ‘Asian Chic’ was introduced by the female host Nakishma Rogers who surfaced from backstage donning a long traditional style Chinese red and gold dress, her make-up done by Alma Franklyn also encompassed the Chinese theme and the crowd was immediately responsive anticipating the next event. Alma and Shanelle Richardson both did a commendable job where make-up was concerned to bring over the different themes.
 

Soft music flowed from the auditorium as a voice with a foreign accent spoke of Chinese and Japanese culture to a slow walk by Miss Anguilla 2006 and Panache model Amber Woodley in full traditional Chinese wear down to her fan. At the end of Amber’s walk the other models including the charming Tiny Tot contestants donned trendy exclusive designs with obvious Chinese and Japanese influence. The evening’s signature collection saw Miss Connor incorporating Asian silks into contemporary chic styles. The burst of excitement that moved the crowd was the quick but serious strut by the models to the hot soundtrack Tokyo Drift. The ladies drifted across the runway in style with wondering eyes on both sides of the runway taking in every bit of what Asian meant to Panache.



The next segment saw Miss Connor unselfishly sharing her stage with new upcoming designers, hairstylists and boutiques as they were given a chance to showcase and for some even launch their designs. The local showcase featured designs by Alexis Ryan, as well as designs by Roy Petty and a repeat of Felloje that was launched last week by young designer Janay Reymond. Shanique Ritchie and Catherine Niles were the hairstylists that were featured. Shanique’s models wore wonderfully exaggerated weaves and Catherine from Salis salon, did lovely natural styles. Local boutiques like, Boopsies, Hottest Selections, Platinum and Paradise Fashions displayed what they had to offer. It was amazing to behold the talent ousting from such a small island. 

In her usual humility and with an air of appreciation Charla honoured her Sponsors in a slide show presentation. Her sponsors of three years were presented in gold, her second year sponsors in silver and the long list of first year sponsors in bronze.

Following the homage paid to their sponsors, Panache embarked on the final segment for the evening- Elegant Illusions. Elegant Illusions sought to redefine elegance with striking silhouettes and light flowing fabrics. The line Charla commented was evening wear for those who wished to cause delusion. The models wore somber faces and walked in a serious horse trot to unique, futuristic sounds dressed to cause pandemonium.

The evening was another resounding success and when asked to what she owed this success, Charla responded by saying, “I think we out-did ourselves but it all would not have been possible without the help from my family, executive team and my close friends. I’m so proud of us.”

That statement closed another chapter in the unraveling saga of Panache Couture and its third annual runway excursion of distinctive style, elegance and confidence.