By Ingrid Marie Rivera, La Prensa Correspondent

LORAIN: Oakwood Park’s basketball courts will be transformed into a fashion show runway this upcoming Saturday, July 24th 2010, where models will walk a runway shaped into the letters “J” and “T.” The fashion line is called Je’von Terance and its creator, Aaron Simmons, 24, from Lorain, said after showcasing his work in Cleveland, Elyria, and other cities, he’s glad to bring his line home for the first time.

The “Taking Flight” fashion show, will take place at 2047 E. 36th Street, Lorain, near East 31st and Route 57, and will run from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Seating begins at 7:30 p.m.He said his clothing line is for both men and women, and is for everyday wear. It includes business wear and swimsuits.“You can wear my clothes to go shopping, or to go out at night, to the clubs, or to a ball room party,” he said.

Simmons has always dreamed of becoming a successful fashion designer. But he started in a different line of work than what he has committed to today. “Since junior high and high school, I’ve designed shoes. I wanted to work for Nike,” Simmons said— “I stopped doing shoes!” His desire to learn was so great, he taught himself how to use a sewing machine.

And he started his clothing line three years ago, after returning from San Diego and after pursuing an art degree at Lorain County Community College. Simmons has confirmed roughly 30 female models and 10 male models for the Saturday show, but more models may still be needed, said Mia Arredondo, his girlfriend. She said she’s not sure if she’ll be modeling for the show yet. “This doesn’t happen often in Lorain,” said Mia Arredondo “We wanted to bring something new to Lorain.”

Arredondo said they are still looking for local companies or businesses to sponsor their fashion show, adding she believes the fashion show will be beneficial in spotlighting the many local businesses. "When we think about doing our shopping, our groceries, we think of Elyria or other cities, but there are many great businesses here,” Arredondo said.

The Fashion show tickets are $5 in advance and $10 the day of the show. Tickets are available at the Mexican Mutual Society, 1820 E. 28th Street, Lorain; or call (440) 277-7375. Tickets are also available at the North Ridge Barber Shop, 2017 North Ridge Road, Sheffield Township; or call (440) 752-1900.

Source

http://www.laprensatoledo.com/Stories/2010/072310/fashion.htm