The third annual Juneteenth Fashion Show hit Plano’s Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall on June 15, to a nearly sold out crowd. Themed “Legends”, the vibrant extravaganza celebrated the contributions of Black Americans spanning fashion, retail and entertainment, on both a local and national level.
The Pre-Shopping party and experience set the stage for an unforgettable evening, featuring samplings of the specialty Juneteenth “Electric Strawberry Lemonade Cocktail” crafted and sponsored by SweetBeat Vodka. Attendees also shopped the offerings of many pre-selected black-owned businesses, including: AND MADE; Kodesh Le’olam; CourDiva’s Corner; Borokiniyabo; Wrist Vibes Design; Puzzles of Color; ESW Perfume Bar; GabeJade; Golden Hour Studio; NU Standard; and House of Dasha.Thirteen North Texas designers/collections hit the catwalk with colorful and radiant designs, matched to the tunes of DJ Gnarly, and to the live entertainment act – LaLa Johnson and the i.Tina Band. Featured designers and retailers included: One Street Sales; House of Dasha; Jacob + John (2024 Fashion Group International Rising Star Honoree); NU Standard (a first-ever hair show featured in collaboration with Meke The Salon, Keya Neal, Kia Stering, and more); Indigo 1745; Levenity; Annia Louisa Resortwear (2024 Fashion Group International Rising Star Honoree); AND MADE; Legacy West; Yoma Fashion; Five Eleven Collection (2023 Texas Fashion Industry Designer of the Year); Cedar Hill High School; and headliner, Stephen Goudeau.“I’m absolutely blown away by the magic of this show, and even more so by the talent that we get to showcase at Legacy Hall’s Lexus Box Garden year after year,” said Leah Frazier, Creative Director and Producer of the Juneteenth Fashion Show. “To see everyone smiling, dancing, laughing, and vibing together – all the while enjoying incredible runway styles and entertainment – is truly at the heart of a spectacular Juneteenth celebration. I think Opal Lee would be proud.”
In addition to numerous celebrity models strutting in the show — Anita Hawkins, Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew, Jess Garland, Roshawnda Foster, Christina Puga, and Raven Johnson (Miss Juneteenth DFW 2023) — the night was also filled with many spectacular moments, such as the “Black Country, Reimagined WesternWear” segment by Indigo 1745, inspired by the Black Country music artist movement. Indigo 1745 owners Keith and Denise Manoy were also surprised with the inaugural Juneteenth Fashion Show Black Excellence Award in Retail, while fashion designer Venny Etienne was also surprised with the inaugural Juneteenth Fashion Show Black Excellence Award in Fashion. Former Cedar Hill High School student Jackson Sims was awarded a $500 scholarship to further his interest in fashion design.City of Plano Mayor John B. Muns told Texas Metro News, “I think it just raises awareness throughout the entire community and it just shows how much love we have all around us and this is just a great event.” Muns said. “Every year this is the best.”The event was emceed by Venny Etienne and veteran media personality Lady Jade, plus made possible by generous sponsors, including Comerica Bank, SweetBeat Vodka, Stemme Florals, Valenti Funk, Essations, and Dallas Black Bloggers. Partial proceeds from ticket sales, amounting to $2100, will be donated to the National Juneteenth Museum, supporting its mission to preserve and share the rich history of Juneteenth.

‘Every Year This is the Best’: The Juneteenth Fashion Show Shines Again
Leah Frazier