Fashion for Life Runway Show
By Jules Aldaz
Photography by Nick Blevins
The fifth annual Fashion for Life: Purple Reign Legacy Edition brought together an extraordinary fusion of luxury, fashion, and philanthropy at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. Founded by Matthew Smith, designer and creative force behind @rockpaperdenimbyms3, the show’s mission extends far beyond the runway. It's a movement devoted to raising awareness and providing support for victims of domestic violence, both male and female.
Five Years of Fashion with Purpose
Now in its fifth year — and its third time hosted at the iconic Tobin Center — the event has become one of San Antonio’s most impactful annual celebrations of style and service. Smith shared that the inspiration behind Fashion for Life came from his own mother, a survivor of domestic abuse. “She is the reason I started this,” Smith said. “Fashion for Life is about giving visibility and hope to survivors; turning something painful into something beautiful.”
This year’s Legacy Edition honored the models and community members who have supported the mission from the very beginning. “Legacy isn’t just about one person,” Smith reflected. “It’s about all the amazing people who have helped shape this movement. Tonight, we honor those who’ve been part of this journey for five years: our legacy models.”
Models of all ages walked the runway
Brotherhood, Mentorship, and Meaning
In a standout moment, male models of all ages — from young newcomers to seasoned professionals — took the stage, celebrating unity, mentorship, and strength. The younger models were paired with experienced mentors, creating a spirit of brotherhood that embodied the evening’s theme of resilience and community.
The show was hosted by Lawrence Fields (@law_lamar25), with cohosts Brittany Jones and Brianna Smith, who guided the evening with warmth, purpose, and poise. “These men have been working so hard,” Jones said. “Their dedication and commitment go far beyond the runway. They represent what this event is truly about; compassion, courage, and standing for something bigger than ourselves.”
Among those honored was Chris Matz, who shared, “It’s been an incredible journey. For five years, we’ve not only celebrated fashion but raised awareness and funds for domestic violence in our city. The impact has been tremendous, and it continues to grow.”
Awareness Beyond Gender
One of the night’s most powerful messages came from PR director Jenevy Sims, who reminded the audience that domestic violence has no gender boundaries. “Every seven minutes someone is affected by domestic violence, and it impacts everyone,” Sims said. “You never really know who in your circle may be struggling. When we bring what’s in the dark into the light through open conversation, art, and community, that’s when healing begins.”
Her words captured the spirit of the evening: a balance of awareness and artistry, compassion and courage, all expressed through fashion’s universal language.
A Work of Love: Mental Health and Healing
At the heart of this year’s event was the newly expanded Mental Health Initiative, spearheaded by Genesis Marie Williamson, director of operations for Fashion for Life and model coach. Williamson described both the initiative and the show itself as “an organized work of love, telling a story through fashion and compassion.”
She explained that the Mental Health Initiative will help survivors access the counseling and emotional support they need to begin healing. Through a network of professional counselors, each survivor will receive three free therapy sessions to start their journey toward recovery. “So many who have endured abuse also carry unseen scars,” Williamson said. “Providing a pathway to mental health care is our next step in helping them rebuild their lives.”
A Celebration of Style and Substance
The runway came alive with vibrant creativity from designers @kgfashion, @quorum.oats, @amentrends, and the impeccable designs of @rockpaperdenimbyms3. Smith’s aesthetic — rich color stories, intentional textures, and confident silhouettes — underscored themes of individuality, resilience, and transformation.
The show’s energy was further elevated by violinist Tyrone Marcell and guitarist Ryan Haynesworth, whose live performances added an emotional rhythm that perfectly underscored the evening’s theme of healing through harmony. Behind the scenes, makeup artist @lifeasrashad helped define the night’s signature, polished aesthetic that tied the event’s creative vision together.
Join the Movement
To support Fashion for Life’s ongoing mission, the organization invites community members to become “friends,” not just donors. Contributions can be made at fashionforlifesa.com by clicking Donate.
As the evening came to a close, one sentiment echoed through the room — Fashion for Life, founded by Matthew Smith, isn’t just a fashion show. It’s a legacy of love, courage, and community, reminding us that when style meets purpose, lives are changed forever. ■
