On Sunday, August 24, echoes of trendy mainstream selections were heard between the walls of City Hall Theatre for the models who made up The Duchess and Dukes of the Runway Charity Fashion Show

In his first-ever fashion production, Amon Butler of AB Dolce Productions revealed his personal vision to a half-packed house. For a much-anticipated show, one's initial impression upon entering the room was disappointing.

The set was made up of four giant plants resting on the stage. With the overhead lights hitting flowerpots wrapped in aluminium foil, all of it resembled that of a cute grade-school play. This all but managed to fade into the background as the attention was brought away from the surroundings and towards the commencing of the show. A few initial glitches made for a 20-minute late start, but was soon over-rode by an introduction like no other.

Two masked individuals strutted on stage and surely set the tone for the rest of the show.

They made sure to spit their inspirational words with full-on attitude and fabulousness.

This was only the audiences' much needed preparation for what was to come.

Although it wasn't a booming start, it definitely kept the attention of the crowd in one way or another. The styles were pleasant to observe. Although nothing outstanding came from behind the curtain, the shops made sure to keep the outfits practical and the models wore them with confidence.

With the exception of two international designers, all styles were local and very reachable; they consisted of New Life Fashions, Authentic Choices, Toxic Rose, Jazzy Boutique and Duchess Boutique.

Impressively, the international designers, Rico Chappel, from Atlanta and Ellie Owens, from California brought some variety to the show. It was refreshing and enjoyable to see a line that had influences from abroad.

Half an hour into the show the audience was graced with the vocal styling of Olivia Hamilton. Although dressed down, she made sure to dress up the audience with her talent. The crowd responded extremely well to both her character and her excellent performances.

With her encouragement, by the end, the entire audience was clapping and singing along to her second tune, which was impressively, sung a capella style.

The show unconventionally consisted of three parts and two intermissions before the finale. However, no one seemed bothered by the length of the show.

Supportive family members and friends continued to cheer as their special someone came out from behind the curtains and kept the show going.

As the show progressed, it became obvious that both the models and the crowd began to feel awkward with the venue itself, cringing at the thought of any model having a brutal fall down the steep stairs in the middle of the stage. Luckily, everyone stayed safe and had fun with the show.

Afterwards, an understanding spectator commented, "For his first show, he managed to keep things together. At least now he can see how much time and effort it takes and see what he did wrong to move forward in his work. You live and you learn."

Another enthusiastic audience member said that she was "quite impressed for his first time putting on a show."

Mr. Butler confidently came out to share the finale with his models, crew and audience members. He proudly thanked all contributors and sponsors: Brown & Co., Happy Valley Minimart and Bermynet.

For $50 it was a surprise to leave with not even a programme or a ticket stub at hand. However, part proceeds for the show were being donated towards The Sunshine League and The Phenomenal Women's Association while the rest is going towards Mr. Butler's quest to master his craft in fashion school in the United States.

It's always encouraging to see the youth of Bermuda pursuing their passion. By putting yourself out there, it shows courage at the heart. Take nothing personally, but use any creative criticism to your advantage.

"One hundred percent of the chances you don't take, you miss."

Good luck in the future.