'Project Runway' designers to showcase clothing for nonprofit fundraiser

Designers from the TV show "Project Runway" are scheduled to showcase their new clothing lines at a fashion show fundraiser Oct. 3 for nonprofit BiGAUSTIN.

The event is hosted from 12:30–4 p.m. at the Shoal Crossing Event Center, 8611 N. MoPac, and features designs from Daniel Esquivel and Korto Momolu. Fab-U-Lunch also includes a luncheon, silent auction, local art and fashion vendors, and guest speakers.

Rachel Maimon, community impact initiatives manager at BiGAUSTIN, said proceeds from the event will help fund entrepreneurship training and the Fashion Art and Beauty training program. The funds will also go toward providing micro loans to entrepreneurs to grow and establish their businesses. BiGAUSTIN serves 15 Texas counties and supports businesses owned by minorities and women.

Through the fundraiser, Maimon said she hopes to showcase the work BiGAUSTIN does for the economy and the entrepreneurship community.

"I hope that more people see how important the work we do in the community is," Maimon said. "Austin is literally defined by small businesses. It's what makes our economy so good; it is what makes it such a great place to live."

This is the first year the nonprofit has hosted a fashion show as its fundraiser. Maimon said the idea spawned after Esquivel partnered with the nonprofit and began teaching classes for the FAB program. During his class he talked to students about his challenges as a business owner and his experience with "Project Runway."

Tickets for the event start at $65 and can be purchased online at www.wow1000.org.