Fashion show in Plano has models on runway and attendees on their feet
By Eva D. Coleman
Lifestyle & Culture Editor
Texas Metro News
Joy was on full display at the Juneteenth Fashion Show in Plano, Texas on June 19, 2026 as couture, creativity and dancing took over the Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall in Legacy West. The fifth annual event curated by Leah Frazier of Think Three Media featured designers and entertainment, including multi-platinum recording artist Cupid “The Linedance King.”
Clothing and accessories ruled the runway. From suits and gowns, copper headdresses, necklaces and custom hats, the theme “Ubuntu: Together, We Are – Together, We Rise” served as a unifying mission from young to seasoned artistry.
The international flair was a highlight, featuring the youngest designer showcased, 14-year-old Dacyn Mofor from Cameroon, who wowed the audience with his Tangwa brand. Afro-Carribean designer Marta Ruiz had fun taking the stage after her designs were presented, twirling her Colombian flag inspired skirt in delight.
The garden rose quickly when the well-known line dance anthem “Flex” was performed by Cupid. The lyrics “Flex your body” were a great summation to the models who approached and walked the runway the entire evening with regalness and confident appeal. Olivia Ibezim of Workout Olivia’s Ways and her crew got to perform with Cupid and led the orchestrated dance movement.
With media personality Lady Jade and comedian Michael Shawn serving as emcees, they kept the evening flowing with 14 featured designers: Legacy West Collection by Kristen Briggs, Tangwa by Dacyn Mofor, House of Dasha by Quiana McDaniel, The Tin Woman by Deidre Hardin, Indigo 1745 Collective by Keith and Denise Manoy, Military Glam by Katrice Thompkins, Black Menswear, KISHME, Annia Louisa by Annia Jenkins, Saint Lamo, Do Your Work, Elizabeth Keyes, Crossed Hats by Mahiri Takai and Marta Ruiz
It was a triumphant return for Juneteenth Fashion Show regular Quiana McDaniel of House of Dasha, considering that she suffered a stroke over four months ago. Seeing her walk the runway, smiling and waving, brought delight to attendees.
“I’m thankful and blessed to be able to return to such an exciting event,” McDaniel said. “Juneteenth is the show of the year for us. I’m just thankful and blessed to put my feet on the runway.”
McDaniel’s daughter, 2025 Juneteenth Fashion Show student designer and scholarship honoree Nyilah McDaniel and Morgan Akins, both graduates of Cedar High School, were recognized for their contributions to the 2026 Met Gala. Their recognition during the Juneteenth show and reaching “The Met” made Quiana happy.
“That’s the pinnacle of any fashion dream and they were able to go their freshman year,” McDaniel said with pride in seeing her child pursue fashion with huge accomplishments. “We are blessed.”
The Juneteenth Fashion Show goes beyond wearables and recognizes and uplifts community advocates and organizations. Akwete Tyehimba of Pan African Connection was named as recipient of the 2026 Juneteenth Legacy Award of Excellence. A portion of the proceeds from the show will benefit The African Think Tank, a non-profit uniting Africans and friends of Africa in culture and business. While DJ Dr. Mack served as the resident deejay, the event also featured performances by local musical guests, giving them an opportunity to shine.
Greetings from the Juneteenth Fashion Show Premier Sponsor, Comerica Bank, “A Division of Fifth Third Bank, N.A.” were delivered at the top of the program by Tiffanie Rice, Vice President of Regional External Affairs. Attendees also heard from sponsor Deba Douglas of the Deba Douglas Realty Group. Additional sponsors included: CoSign Magazine, Luxury Mobile Experience, Sweetbeat Vodka, the City of Plano and Stemme Floral.
Plano Mayor John Muns attends the Juneteenth Fashion Show each year and was seated alongside the runway with his wife, Joa. The support from the city matters. With a background in fashion as a stylist and producer, Leah Frazier’s vision of celebrating Juneteenth and Black excellence in development of the first show in 2022, along with its success and strong partnership, keeps her committed year after year.
“Legacy West has supported my efforts in bringing it back again and again as one of the “best” shows to hit Plano as was previously quoted by the Mayor,” Frazier said. “Since the show is not just fashion but shopping, live music, food, drinks and entertainment, I believe that there’s a vibe that the Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall brings, that is unmatched.” Be on the lookout for tickets to the 2027 Juneteenth Fashion Show!
