Pittsburgh Earth Day marked its ninth annual Ecolution Fashion Gala in a grand ceremony held at the Carnegie Museum of Art. The evening was a testament to the successful union of fashion, dance, music, art, and creativity under the banner of environmental consciousness.
One of the most unique fashion events in Pittsburgh, the Ecolution Runway show lived up to its reputation. Renowned creative talents, including Richard Parsakian, Emilio and Gino from Izzazu, along with Gary Kalinosky from The Green Voice Collective, orchestrated an unforgettable show. Models from Docherty Models brought life to the runway, showcasing sustainable fashion with flair and finesse.
The Ecolution Fashion Gala, curated by Richard Parsakian of Eons in Shadyside, demonstrated that fashion can be a powerful platform to promote sustainability. It attractednearly 400 guests to its breathtaking runway.
The event received an additional boost of artistic prowess with the participation of world-renowned choreographer and Pittsburgh native, Kyle Abraham. An esteemed CAPA graduate and recipient of the prestigious 2013 MacArthur “genius” grant, Abraham’s collaboration significantly enhanced the gala’s appeal. Pittsburgh Earth Day founder, Ronda Zegarelli, coordinated this collaboration as a platform to highlight Pittsburgh’s commitment to sustainability.
The VIP attendees were treated to a plant-forward menu curated by Executive Chef Doug Genovese at the reception. Alongside delectable food and complimentary libations from Finlandia, VIP guests were privy to an exclusive artist meet and greet with Sewickley native and showcased VIP artist, Claire Hardy.
The gala kicked off its official programming at 8 PM. From then until 10 PM, guests were immersed in an eclectic mix of dance performances, music, visual artistry, and eco-inspired couture fashions. This year’s Ecolution Fashion Show, themed “The Unseen World,” featured a unique dance piece choreographed by Abraham, tunes spun by DJ Soy Sos, striking visuals, and a special appearance by Kierra Drashell, the first lady of Pittsburgh Drag.
A range of local designers, including Christine Bethea, Terry Boyd, Claudia Brownlee, Brian David, and more, showcased their custom couture creations, embodying the spirit of sustainability on the runway. Hair and make-up services were provided by Izzazu Salon, Spa and Blowout Bar, while Docherty Model and Talent Agency models adorned the stage.
Leah Lizarondo, founder of 412 Food Rescue, was honored with this year’s Ecolution Model Citizen Award, recognizing her efforts in sustainability. The Pittsburgh-born award-winning choreographer, Kyle Abraham, graced the occasion along with featured dancer Donovan Reed of Philadelphia.
Seen: Betsy Benson, Cody Baker, Neeta Khanuja, Foo, Christine Tumpson, Nadyli Nuñez, Don Morrison, Karyn Locke, John Chamberlin, Rachael Rennebeck