Models will be jumping, dancing and waving their arms as they make their way down the runway at The Art Center Fashion Show on Saturday night.

"I tell models to imagine they are in the middle of the street in Brazil during Mardi Gras," says designer Lana Neumeyer, a native of Brazil who lives in Fox Chapel. "There will be lively music, too. Fashion is fun, and fashion shows should be fun, too.

"I love to design clothing in bold and bright colors with big flowers, even if it is winter," she says. "I love when someone sees my clothing and says 'Wow,' because you can't be shy to wear my clothing."

Neumeyer uses Brazilian fabric such as Chita, as well as burlap, satins and tulle, to create apparel that has plenty of movement and has a feminine edge.

She is one of six designers to participate in the fourth annual fashion fund-raiser for the Associated Artists of Butler County.

More than 40 models will strut their stuff along the catwalk in everything from evening gowns to clothing made from recycled materials. The show does not have a theme, so designers were given free reign to showcase whatever style they wish.

"I love to do fashion shows for charities," Neumeyer says. "I have done many shows to help raise money for the homeless in Brazil, because it's important to help others. The Art Center does great things, and I am happy to be a part of this fashion show."

Also participating is designer Roberto Rivadeneira, from Ecuador, who recently moved to Columbiana, Ohio. His evening gowns are made from chiffon and taffeta.

Local designers include Jessica Stillwagon, creator of Kynd Haze Clothing, which combines vintage and recycled materials; fiber artist Meagan Greynolds; Allison Zehmisch, known for designs in vivid colors and sassy prints; and Gwendolyn Kiste of Zombie Apparel, which offers eclectic elements in its designs.

"We are really looking forward to this show because we have great designers and a variety of models," says Rebecca Rose, fashion show coordinator. "This will be the first year we have international designers. The venue will be an intimate setting inside the art center where you will also be able to see some great artwork."

A fashion show at Semiahmoo Shopping Centre raised a smokin' $1,157 for Surrey Firefighters Charitable Society.

The Nov. 6 and 7 event featured a sampling of fashions for all ages available at centre shops, with models' hair, makeup and eyewear also provided by mall merchants.

Two Surrey firefighters – Matt Corrin and Curtis Chamberlayne – walked the catwalk in the Friday evening show. It took some coaching, but they had fun, the society's Terry Hunt said.

Funds raised will go to the society's general account, which helps support more than 60 organizations in the city. Efforts that benefit include a school snack program and the annual children's burn camp. The funds are "for sure" appreciated, Hunt said.

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