“Welcome to the Jungle — A Runway for a Cause” is the theme of the seventh annual Arkansas Fashion Weekend, taking the stage Friday through March 22. Formerly known as Fire on the Runway, this three-day, re-branded event unites designers, models, creatives and community leaders for bold fashion while raising awareness about mental health.
Beyond the runway, the weekend aims to spark conversations about mental wellness. Guest speakers from Arkansas Suicide Prevention will participate in programming, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline — addressing rising suicide rates in Arkansas over recent years.
The weekend kicks off Friday at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, with a 6:30-9:30 p.m. meet-and-greet featuring designers, models and the production team, along with a preview of select pieces. Saturday begins with the VIP Hour from 6-7 p.m., offering light bites and wine, followed by the runway show from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Pavilion in the Park, with a special performance from Haywood King. The weekend concludes at 1 p.m. Sunday with a brunch panel at the museum, focusing on mental health awareness and community support resources.
Fashion lovers will see a handful of designers, including a mix of returning and new ones.
Returning this year is veteran designer Annmarie White, founder of House of A&W Fashion, based near Dallas. With more than 30 years of experience, White designs for diverse body types and mentors young women in fashion. Her philosophy: “Be the woman who fixes another woman’s crown without telling the world,” emphasizing empowerment, discipline and strength. White’s accolades include the Dallas Fashion Award, FIG Dallas Rising Star Award and Best Fashion Designer from Art Inc. magazine.
New this year is Taylor Suraiya, a young creative and nonprofit founder. Launching her nonprofit at 14, Suraiya uses her brand Rarety to create designs rooted in resilience, discipline and individuality. Her work combines athletic discipline with intentional storytelling, aiming to inspire confidence and self-expression.
While showcasing creativity and style, Arkansas Fashion Weekend highlights community impact. Through fashion, advocacy and conversation, the event proves that the runway can be more than entertainment — it can be a platform for awareness, empowerment and meaningful change.
Tickets, from $23.18, can be found at eventbrite.com. To contact founder and executive producer Sannecia Davis, email: Fashionweekarkansas@gmail.com.