On March 21, 2026, a large warehouse in Union Market, Washington, D.C., transformed into something more than just a runway; it became a living, breathing ecosystem of creativity.
On March 21, 2026, a large warehouse in Union Market, Washington, D.C., transformed into something more than just a runway; it became a living, breathing ecosystem of creativity. The Unfiltered Fashion Show wasn’t just a fashion show. It was a collision of urban style, freedom of expression, and community, where every detail felt intentional and every voice had space to exist.
Before the first model even stepped out, the energy was already present. Art covered the walls and conversations echoed between designers, photographers, and performers. It felt less like an event and more like a shared moment that was built by creatives, for creatives.
At the core of Unfiltered was a team of seven women who turned vision into reality. Led by Executive Director Kathleen Flores, alongside Creative Director Hannah Grace and a team including Caitlin Gum, Abby Lee, Jessica Baiza, Anna Patino, and Willow Newman, their collective effort shaped an environment where fashion, music, and art remained in synergy. What began as an idea quickly grew into something much larger, “bigger than I could have ever imagined,” Flores shared while still holding onto the exact energy for a space that felt like home and gave creatives in the DMV a platform to be seen and heard.
The runway itself was a constant shift in identity. Models rotated through over a dozen looks throughout the night, embodying each designer’s vision with precision and confidence. From the reconstructed, sustainability-driven pieces of Nubati Industries to the raw, expressive designs of Stained Faith, the show balanced grit with intention. In contrast, Marc Wagner and The Collection Apparel delivered more refined, structured silhouettes, proving that polish and edge can coexist in the same space.
What made Unfiltered stand out was the curation. Thrift Lordes, a resale-based thrift brand, brought styled looks built from secondhand pieces, reminding the audience that fashion doesn’t have to be new to feel powerful. Every outfit felt personal. Every walk felt deliberate.
Between runway segments, the space opened up to not only the models, but attendees. The intermission was a bridge for people to connect and plant the seeds for future collaborations. In a room full of like-minded creatives, the goal was to build.
The live performances added another layer. Artists like Rizzi the Rocktar, Draco, and Nicho blurred the line between music and fashion, reinforcing the show’s genreless identity. “This is something very new to me,” Rizzi shared, “but I’m honored… I’ve always wanted to get into fashion.” That same spirit of curiosity and growth echoed throughout the night.
Event photographer, Jessica Eshete described the experience as “full of life and creativity,” noting how every element, from live art to the garments themselves, felt deeply intentional.
By the end of the night, The Unfiltered Fashion Show proved that when creatives come together with a shared purpose, the result isn’t just a show, but rather a movement. What made it resonate wasn’t just the visuals but also the intention behind it. “The overall goal for Unfiltered was to give a voice to those creatives who don’t have a platform to be heard,” Flores said. And if the energy in the room was any indication, that goal was more than met. As for what’s next, she left it simple, “stay tuned for season two.”
