Saturday, Picayune residents of all ages strutted down the runway while showcasing the latest fashions available at local businesses.
This year, Picayune Main Street and the Krewe of the Pearl collaborated to host the second annual Fashion Frenzy at Southern Char Steakhouse.
The evening began with Picayune Mayor Ed Pinero welcoming the audience before introducing Steve McDonald, Martha Ford and Eileen Baker, the evening’s emcees.
Krewe of the Pearl Capt. Beth Lenoir introduced the 2017 king and Queen, Victor and Carmen Leon. Special guests Jose and Melissa Gutierrez arrived from Rio dressed in elaborately decorated costumes to kick off the first round of models.
Child models included Molly Stover, Braelyn Spell, Ella Spell, Harper Bachman and Colt Crafty. They were dressed in clothing from Bags and Bows and Bonnie Blue Boutique.
After their departure from the runway, Trina Shelton, 2016’s Ms. Mississippi Senior America, serenaded the crowd with a rendition of “Where the Boys Are” and “It’s All in His Kiss.”
Father Jonathan Filkins, rector at St. Barnabas Anglican Church, gave the blessing before the meal. During dinner, guests were entertained by selections from David Delcambre Play Music and Entertainment.
Picayune Memorial High School student Miriam Howell thrilled the crowd with her renditions of “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “As if We Never Said Goodbye” and “I Could Have Danced All Night.”
Krewe of the Pearl King and Queen Victor and Carmen Leon danced to a three-song medley. After the evening’s entertainment, the men took center stage in fashions from Ropes and Racks Outdoors, April’s of Picayune and B&B Traditions. Cole Arthur, Johnny Niemann and David Baker modeled the selections.
Last but not least, women dazzled in clothing and accessories from MeLinda’s Fine Gifts, Bubbles and Bliss Boutique, Addictive Culture Jewelry, Ruby Ribbon, Fly Boutique, Magnetic Jewelry by Marv and B&B Traditions.
During last Friday’s rehearsal, Picayune native and runway model Chearice Vaughn gave some “great pointers” to the models, Picayune Main Street Director Reba Beebe said.
Beebe added that Vaughn hopes to participate in the next Fashion Frenzy.
“Fashion Frenzy went very smooth,” she said. “The evening stayed on schedule with a balance of outstanding entertainment and fashions furnished by local merchants. Our emcees were superb again this year. Guests were very pleased with entertainment and costumes by the Krewe of the Pearl Mardi Gras and special guests. We appreciate the support of all who attended, local merchants and our fabulous models, emcees and entertainers.”