BRO BEFORE HO'S: STRUT Fashion Show was Smokin' Hot

Basic Rights Oregon—the non-profit group that aims to end gender and sexual orientation discrimination across our state—couldn't have picked a more beautiful day to host their 3rd Annual STRUT fashion show.

Clear skies, summery hot weather and California's freshly passed amendment allowing gay marriage, all contributed harmoniously to the fashionable event at the Wonder Ballroom on Friday.

After a hug and a red carpet photo op with drag queen hostess Bolivia Carmichael, guests piled into the air conditioned ballroom (thank friggin' God). Inside, the ballroom was not only buzzing with anticipation for the show, ( for the gay boys in the audience it was all about the Under U4 Men underwear models who closed out the show), but with political candidates Sam Adams, Nick Fish and Nick Khal floating through the crowds there was an underground sentiment you'd find at a rally.

Crowds of guests--cocktail in hand--were not just chatting up the fashions but politics as well.

The show was a glamorous success in the only way Portland knows how to put on a fashion show--with quirky pride courtesy fashion show producer and all-around great guy Jonny Shultz (the show was dedicated to his much-missed partner Dan Callaway). Guests, including BRO executive director Jeana Frazzini were circled by Rose City Roller girls dawning fishnet tights and handing out raffle tickets. In addition to a raffle drawing a silent auction with goodies from Nike, Saks Fifth Avenue and Yoga Pearl lined the gorgeously decorated ballroom. The proceeds from the show, raffle and silent auction all benefited Basic Rights Oregon. DJ Barrett Paul spun hits that even got the anxious photographers bopping their heads and shaking their hips. Rudy's Barber Shop was giving free haircuts and everyone seemed to congregate around the scantily attired adorable Under U4 Men live skivvies model--including Adams and Fish.


Fashion was sported by Magali Corzo, Amai Unmei, Adam Arnold, Emily Katz, Revivall Clothing, Sofada, Popina Swimwear, Idom and of course Under U4 Men. It was refreshing to see that models weren't just the stick-thin prototype, but a good helping of full-figured ladies sported collared dresses, off the shoulder sweaters and sexy swimwear. Typical Portland fashion--shock us with stunning clothing and then ice the cake with realistic women wearing them. As a beaming Tito Chowdry--executive director of Portland Fashion Week—tells WW after the show, Portland is one of the only fashion cities to promote independent, green and even sustainable fashion.

Beat that Bryant Park.



[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxFpbJoteSs[/youtube]