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Innovative, elevated, and Detroit; just like the fashion designers who used a few words to describe their collections at this year’s , this is how we would describe the countless runway presentations we saw in Detroit’s Corktown over the weekend.

The 12th annual Michigan Fashion Week showcases were held June 7 to June 8, with networking opportunities from June 5 to June 6, on the seventh floor of . There, 25 designers displayed their uniquely hand-crafted streetwear and high fashion designs that pose a special message to the . On both days, a market area was set up in the lobby of the hotel which featured local, small businesses, selling their products, some of which were shown in the runway showcases.

“My goal for Michigan Fashion Week is to highlight the beautiful talent we have here in Detroit,” founder and executive director Loren Hicks said at the end of the high fashion showcase finale. “You don’t have to go to New York, you don’t have to go to L.A., you don’t have to go to Chicago, we’ve got all of that right here in the City of Detroit.”

The theme for this year’s showcase was “glamour cloud: a breathtaking fusion of sophistication and innovation” as Michigan Fashion Week describes. The theme for this year’s show was elegantly executed in the Godfrey’s sky-high atmosphere in the rooftop lounge.

Each designer cultivated a specific and personal meaning behind their collections, like Michigan-based designer Mary Mbiya of . “My inspiration this year was all about sustainability,” Mbiya said in a video clip at the event. “I wanted pieces that you can wear over and over.” Mbiya’s work is colorful, full of patterns, and specifically curated to display the beauty and talent of African culture. Her opening look was a pink and black, chevron printed, halter neck dress, with a flower detailing on the side. She paired it with black mesh gloves, and a matching fascinator. It’s an excellent illustration of how Michigan Fashion Week highlights a variety of personal styles and ideals.

Partners and sponsors such as , TLB: The Lip Bar, and not only helped to bring the events to their fullest potential, but also allow the opportunity to showcase brands who are looking to expand their market within Michigan.

For more information on Michigan Fashion Week, visit .