Fashion show struts into Scottsdale

Designers and major label companies from around the world are showcasing their latest fashions at the third-annual Scottsdale Fashion Week, hosted by Scottsdale Fashion Square.

SLIDESHOW: Scottsdale Fashion week

Models from independent and major clothing companies began showing off outfits Thursday at the event, which ends today.

Fashion fanatics are able to purchase the clothing items at booths.

"We are thrilled with the show," said Steve Helm, assistant vice president and property manager of Scottsdale Fashion Square. "We've got a lot of attendance."

Helm said they expected a larger attendance compared with last year, because this year they had two runways for modeling companies. The two stages were inside a Waterfront tent and outside a venue along the Southbridge area.

Last year, the Southbridge was still under construction, so they were only able to showcase models on the Waterfront runway, he said.

"I think we had about 700 people come for the Dillard's show last night," Helm said.

All net proceeds from ticket sales were donated to the Arizona Spinal Cord Injury Association, he said. Proceeds from Friday night's runway shows benefited Make-A-Wish Foundation of Arizona.

Smaller, independent companies presented models on the outside runway, while major clothing companies with stores in Scottsdale Fashion Square mall showcased on the inside stage.

In addition to enthusiastic crowds anticipating the display of new fashions, various vendors set up booths selling and displaying jewelry and skin rejuvenation products. Spa and resort companies held raffles for discounts for new products and services.

Ceara Harpley, online marketing coordinator at InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa, said the company used the show as an opportunity to advertise its full resort. She said the venue opened last Tuesday. The company's partner, Lululemon Athletica, had a fitness trainer modeling for the resort, she said. "We're still trying to get the word out," Harpley said. "We've had a lot of people stop by."

The Phoenix Art Museum displayed a fashion exhibit during the event.

Priscyla Escobar, a fashion school student who volunteered in the Phoenix Art Museum booth, said she was excited to be able to see what fashion companies were presenting.

"It kind of helps me to see new fashion trends," Escobar said.

Mona Colwell, independent senior sales director for Mary Kay cosmetic and skin care products, said she liked the setup of the show that allowed attendees to stroll between the runways where vendor booths were advertising. "I think everyone's having a great time," Colwell said.

The Art Institute of Phoenix promoted its school, as well as future fashion shows the institute organizes.

Sharmayne Yazzie, who promoted the institute, said its next show will be in a couple of months. The Art Institute of Phoenix tends to showcase more local boutiques rather than major clothing departments, she said.

"I think the fashion market is a big part of the school," Yazzie said.