Brian Hill, executive director of Phoenix Fashion Week (PHXFW), knows fashion, but he also knows people — and how to host a party. Recently, PHXFW debuted its Top 40 Model Runway Launch Party at Sanderson Lincoln’s Scottsdale location. Guests were treated to cocktails and noshes amid a buzzing room full of the Valley’s most promising runway talent and designers.

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Hill has curated a well-oiled machine, from PHXFW’s team to the talent. This collective crew is as professional as they are courteous and entertaining. Either Hill and company have invested time and effort into understanding the value of networking and socializing or PFW struck gold in acquiring inherently charming individuals (likely a mix of both). 

Before they hit the runway, our BOSW team had an opportunity to briefly get to know some of the Top 40 models, like the enigmatic Domiana Ndour, former pro athlete and 2x bestselling author, who specializes in mindfulness and somatic coaching, and the delightful Emma Lyn, who may be a bigger fan of Star Wars than our BOSW founder. 

Once Domiana, Emma and their fellow models donned the runway, it was all business. This talented group already exhibits the fierceness and tenacity their craft demands. Plus, Hill’s intimate knowledge of the Top 40 and their backgrounds made for a fun and dynamic addition. As emcee, he regaled the crowd with anecdotes about several of the models and their stand-out personalities. 

Designer dreams

Also present at the launch were several PHXFW designers. We had a chance to talk with self-taught PHXFW alumn Araceli, whose passion for global women’s fashion shines through her designs. Designer Aven Salei of House of Aven shared about the inspiration behind her whimsical storybook-inspired fashion line. Kimberley Warmack, a PHXFW staffer and Ms. Wheelchair Arizona, was on hand to tell us about her fashion line for the disabled.

From start to finish, the Top 40 Model Runway Launch Party was a success, showing us an intimate look at what’s to come. 

The takeaway: 2024 Phoenix Fashion Week will not disappoint. Learn more about the upcoming event at phoenixfashionweek.com.