Bare Fashion Evening Successfully Casts Models for The Runway Heist

Bare Fashion Evening, BFE, on Sunday 26 January held the casting session for its much-anticipated event, The Runway Heist, which is scheduled for April. Over 200 aspiring male and female models, aged 18 to 26, turned out in droves to vie for a spot on the glittering runway.

The casting call drew a vibrant mix of talent, showcasing the abundant creativity and enthusiasm for fashion in Lagos. Each participant brought their unique style and charisma to impress the panel of esteemed fashion industry experts.

100 models were selected following a rigorous process as the panel sought out individuals who not only possess the physical attributes synonymous with runway modelling but also the confidence and poise that embody the spirit of BFE.

‘We are thrilled with the incredible talent that attended our casting,” said Jonarry Agraka, the Curator of Bare Fashion Evening.

‘The energy and passion displayed by these ambitious young models were truly inspiring. We are excited to see them bring their unique flair to The Runway Heist.’

BFE’s vision is to provide a platform for young talents to use fashion and runway as a tool to influence and reshape their world as change agents, and The Runway Heist is expected to be a cornerstone of Lagos’ fashion calendar in 2025, drawing designers, models, fashion enthusiasts, media and influencers from across the country.

A model, Chizara Eleazar, 19, said she believes modelling is an art and hopes to express her art in The Runway Heist. Eleazar said Naomi Campbell inspired her to become a model because of how ‘exquisite she is on the runway’.

Jonarry explained that BFE’s unique value proposition which sets it apart from other homegrown runway shows is its emphasis on empowering models.

‘Casting for designers is slated for February. The designer with the “Best Design Inspiration” will walk away with a cash prize of N1 million.

‘Furthermore, for the first time in the history of fashion shows in Nigeria, we will be shifting the focus from rewarding only designers to also rewarding models. There’s N3 million up for grabs by the top four models,’ he stated.

BFE is an international fashion installation and walking art fashion festival celebrating fashion as a form of artistic journey into self and cultural discovery. The first BFE was hosted on 19 June 2022. The Runway Heist slated for April 2025 will be the third event organised by BFE and by all indications the biggest so far.