Join Us At The Runway Show & Maker Market!
Enjoy drinks and light appetizers and meet inspirational makers Ebenezer Akakpo of Akakpo & Co., Gnykol, J.M. Syron, Josiane Fashion House, Dorcass, Roxi Suger and others as O’Maine Studios plays host to a one-of-a-kind runway show!
Tickets from $10-$60.
Thursday, March 27 | 6:00-8:00PM
O’Maine Studios
54 Danforth Street, Portland, ME 04101
Designers And Makers Joining Us Include:
Gnykol
Conscious materials, Fearless expression, Original Artwear.
Utilizing off-cuts and imperfect leather hides Gnykol creates bold one-of-a-kind rockstar garments. Her leather and denim outwear aims to empower the wearer and ignite inspiration from all viewers. Ranging from lightly embellished with functional hardware to elaborately adorned with high densities of studs and spikes, each piece is a work of art.
Roxi Suger
For over 20 years, Roxi Suger has been a pioneer in sustainable fashion, creating timeless, plant-based designs that inspire confidence, comfort, and joy. As the founder of Angelrox and Suger, she crafts versatile, earth-friendly clothing that celebrates every body, all handmade in a historic Maine mill. A passionate advocate for sustainability, community, and empowerment, Roxi’s mission extends beyond fashion—she uplifts and connects, guided by her lifelong mantra: “May peace prevail.
Akakpo and Co.
Every item Ebenezer Akakpo designs carries pieces of his cultural history, skills and techniques of his education, and the passion he carries for promoting social justice. An artist originally from Ghana and now based in the United States, Ebenezer integrates his cultural heritage with contemporary design in jewelry, apparel, and home accessories. Educated in Florence, Italy, and the U.S., Akakpo’s approach merges traditional Ghanaian symbols with modern manufacturing techniques. Akakpo’s work is a testament to his belief in the power of design to bridge cultures and communities.
Josiane Fashion House
Josiane Fashion House (JFH) is a Black-owned, African-American woman-owned business founded by Josiane, who hails from Rwanda. After relocating to Glasgow, Scotland, in 2015, and later moving to the USA in 2019, Josiane decided to pursue her passion for sewing. During the pandemic, as a stay-at-home mother, she took sewing classes to provide for her family. In 2021, she graduated from Common Thread of Maine in Westbrook and went on to found Josiane Fashion House.
JFH specializes in creating vibrant, custom women’s and children’s clothing using African print fabrics, a tribute to Josiane’s rich cultural heritage, alongside other diverse fabrics. The business also offers accessories and alteration services to cater to the needs of the Maine community. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and cultural expression, Josiane Fashion House aims to bring a piece of African culture to the United States through beautiful, bespoke fashion.
J.M. Syron
J.M. Syron’s couture intends to re-define our place in the twenty-first century, a place where we each choose a life of love, and conquer the ‘power-over’ societal structure. J.M. envisions a future where a non-binary world is free of Racism, Sexism and Homophobia.
The current traditional model of relationships is defined by power plays and politics, and is echoed in the way we choose to clothe ourselves. When we choose to change our outer appearance we begin to change the traditional societal models and beliefs that bind our lives; stripping away the strangle-hold of the traditional patriarchal world definition.
J.M’s couture is designed to inspire you to define your own True Self for yourself – find strength, courage and the resolve to realize our heaven on Earth through One Love.
Luxe by Dorcass
Busola Olagunju is a Nigerian-born, Maine-based fashion designer, entrepreneur, and mentor whose artistry seamlessly blends cultural heritage with contemporary elegance. As the founder of Luxeby Dorcass, she specializes in bridal, custom couture, prom, red-carpet fashion, alterations, and exquisite children’s ball gowns. Her designs are distinguished by intricate craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a deep appreciation for individuality and self-expression.
Hailing from Nigeria, Busola’s passion for fashion was nurtured from an early age, inspired by her mother’s love for textiles and traditional attire. Determined to perfect her craft, she independently mastered the art of fashion design, eventually establishing herself as a leading creative force in the industry.Her work incorporates rich African influences, including:
✨ Bold Ankara prints
✨ Aso-Oke fabrics
✨ Hand-beaded embellishments
✨ Intricate embroidery
By fusing these traditional elements with modern couture techniques, Busola creates stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces that resonate with cultural pride and timeless sophistication.
Busola’s work is deeply rooted in sustainability and inclusivity, ensuring that every piece tells a unique story while upholding ethical fashion practices. Whether through elegant wedding gowns, statement red-carpet ensembles, or meticulously crafted alterations, her designs celebrate diversity and self-expression, making every client feel empowered and confident.
Beyond Fashion: A Multifaceted Entrepreneur
Busola’s creative impact extends beyond fashion design. She has built a thriving brand ecosystem that spans multiple industries, including:
Event Planning – @eventsbydorcass
Makeup Artistry – @makeupbydorcass
African Cuisine – @dorcassafricancuisine
Ready-to-Wear Fashion – @dorcassrtw
Busola’s journey is a powerful testament to the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerian women. As she continues to expand Luxeby Dorcass, she remains dedicated to elevating luxury fashion, honoring her cultural heritage, and creating meaningful impact through design, mentorship, and philanthropy.
Discover her work at dorcass.com.
Questions?
Please email [email protected]