ICONIQUE MAGAZINE – A Fashion, Music & Lifestyle Publication. Get Published Today!!!
Dr. Monica K. Harris
On the day of the photoshoot, it was more than just taking pictures — it was truly special to me. It was the first photoshoot I had done since before COVID, and so much had happened in my life since then. Life had thrown me challenge after challenge: yet another car accident of my own, and even more heartbreaking, my daughter being in a horrific car accident herself. Those experiences left me physically, emotionally, and mentally drained.
This photoshoot was something I chose to do just for me — a little self-care, a way to feel good about myself again and remind myself of who I am beyond all the pain and trials.
I carefully picked my outfits because I wanted them to reflect how I felt on the inside that day. I chose the black outfit because it was nice, sexy, and cute — a reminder that even through hard times, I could still feel beautiful and confident. I paired it with glass slippers because they reminded me of Cinderella, and honestly, that’s how I felt — like Cinderella getting her moment, stepping back into her own story after years of feeling hidden away.
Cover: SecureEnt Photos
- DR MONICA KAYE HARRIS – 4
- LELE THE MODEL – 10
- DEB D’OR – 16
- SOSO THE MODEL – 22
- MODEL SHI- 30
- NACHELLE MAC – 44
- JANE WANJIRA – 48
- SIDNEY DANYEL – 52
- PEORIA FASHION WEEK – 36
PEORIA FASHION WEEK 2025 COVERAGE
Event Overview & Creative Vision
Peoria Fashion Week (PFW) has rapidly evolved into a distinctive, dynamic celebration of Midwest style and creativity. Originating as a three-day showcase that balanced cultural, youth, and high-fashion themes, the event continues to highlight community-centered design and artistry in Peoria . The 2025 edition, themed “Elevating Midwest Fashion,” took place from April 2–5 at the Four Points by Sheraton in downtown Peoria. It featured a kickoff gala, runway shows, live performances, and opportunities to explore exclusive vendor collections .
Highlights from 2025
Vision & Voice: Co-Founder Perspective
In a feature on WCBU’s “Out and About”, Chanel Hargrave-Murry and Ezra Murry—co-founder and organizer of Peoria Fashion Week—discussed the event’s key components:
• Ambrosia Nocturne Gala: A glamorous evening opener that set the tone for the week, combining fashion with performance and celebration.
• Harpist Performance: The elegant and emotive performance by harpist Kari Novilla added a refined touch to the fashion experience, blending music and style seamlessly.
• Runway Shows: Spanning April 3–5, the runways showcased bold and inventive designs from both established and emerging talents. The range extended from avant-garde high-fashion to streetwear and sustainability-focused creations, including outfits made from repurposed plastic bottles and a thematic wedding gown show.
• Perfomances by Coldsaint and more!
Community & Youth Engagement
PFW has been deeply rooted in community growth and empowerment. Notably:
• Empowering Emerging Talent: Youth designers receive a spotlight—continuing traditions from the earliest editions that featured young designers in dedicated segments such as Youth Day .
• Cultivating Local Creativity: The week serves as both a platform and catalyst for local creatives, nurturing visibility and opportunities for designers, models, and other industry professionals .
Editorial Takeaways
Peoria Fashion Week continues to stand out as a creative and community-rich event, melding fashion, artistry, and local heritage. In 2025, it elevated its production value and creative storytelling by integrating gala ambiance, live music, runway dynamism, and inclusive designer showcases. The editorial narrative shines on PFW’s ability to merge high-concept design with deeply rooted local expression, reaffirming its relevance not just to Peoria but to the broader Midwest fashion scene.
Editorial Recap: Themes & Takeaways
| Theme | Description |
| Platform for Creatives | PFW served as a stage for regional designers—local names like Atonement Apparel and Curious Baubles gained exposure, alongside others like Farmer Dwayne. |
| Immersive Experience | Through theatrical elements like the gala and musical performances, PFW emphasized fashion as a sensory experience, not just a visual one. |
| Community & Nurturing Youth | The event continued its mission of inclusive support, particularly championing emerging talent and youth through educational programming and runway exposure. |
You want to get your Fashion Line seen at Peoria Fashion Week 2026? Then sign up Now! (Click Here) Peoria Fashion Week 2026 Designer Portal
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