RaChard White is bringing art and fashion to life in the Auburn community.
Photographer and nursing student at Southern Union Community College, White stepped into the fashion world with his first show at Auburn's footwear boutique The Blue Shoe Feb. 18.
The event, "SoundArt Poetry + Art Show," was a poetry reading and art and fashion show sponsored by several area businesses.
White, Auburn native and graduate of Auburn High School, said he is excited about his newest endeavor.
"I'm a photographer, but I've always had a passion for fashion," White said. "I've found a way to blend the two together."
White worked with Private Gallery, a local clothing store, freelance makeup artist Ashley Yerves and The Blue Shoe to bring his looks to life. Distinguished Cuts, Nayberry Publishing, The Blue Shoe and 2Chic Salon & Boutique also sponsored the event.
The night included music and poetry readings and showcased White's photography as well as the work of other local artists. The highlight of the evening was White's runway production.
The models featured in the show were White's personal friends, not professional models. White said he prefers to work with novice models.
"All the girls are local, and for future events I plan on reaching for more local talent," White said. "I really want to get some girls that may not make it in major runway events and may not be tall enough or have enough experience."
Yerves said White's show focused on high fashion and looks for warm weather.
"It showed you what was on the runways for spring while still being affordable," Yerves said.
Yerves, who freelances for weddings, proms and fashion shows, used an airbrushing makeup technique.
The show included clothing from Private Gallery and shoes and jewelry from The Blue Shoe.
White said his inspiration came from Fashion Week runways, but his looks were toned down for everyday wear.
"I had to make sure everything was wholesome, and everything didn't look too racy," White said. "I like to keep things classy and elegant."
Jennifer Bartley, sales associate at The Blue Shoe, said White's show reflected his passion for his work.
"It was very dynamic and colorful and fashion forward," Bartley said. "The girls all wore crazy heels."
White said his fashion show took about two months to plan, but only lasted approximately 15 minutes. He said seeing the finished product was the best part of the evening.
"That feeling of completion and being able to see the girls out there, that was the highlight," White said.
Yerves said White's personality makes his artwork successful.
"His work is so gorgeous, and he puts so much effort into everything he does, especially his photography," Yerves said. "He is just a really down-home, Southern, easygoing guy."
White plans to produce more fashion shows in the future. He also wants to continue his photography with his new business, White Reflections. He said he sees both photography and fashion as valuable art forms.
"I've always seen fashion as a window of self-expression," White said. "I think that is why I love fashion so much. There's so much creativity that goes into it."
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