Richmond Fashion Week (RVAFW) recently announced it will end its Fall showcase and focus exclusively on spring events, bringing its long-running biannual format to a close after 16 years. The shift, shared via social media by RVAFW’s executive producer and co-founder Jimmy Budd, aims to enhance production quality by dedicating more time and resources to the annual spring event.

“This change is intended to allow us [RVAFW leadership] to concentrate on our efforts and resources on creating an even more impactful and memorable event each spring,” Budd wrote in the announcement, shared on social media.. “While this decision marks a shift in our traditional approach, we believe it will enhance the quality and experience of our fashion week, allowing us to better serve our designers, partners and the Richmond community.” 

LaToya Parham, owner of the clothing brand Luxury Professionals, expressed her disappointment over RVAFW’s decision to end the fall showcase. Parham, who launched her brand in 2021 and joined RVAFW in 2022, noted the platform has been pivotal in allowing her to share her creative vision.

“[RVAFW] was the one place that I often find myself and I'm able to display my talent,” Parham said. “RVA Fashion Week taught me. It taught me what it is to participate in a fashion show and it gave me that gateway.”

However, Parham said she understands why RVAFW made the decision. 

“It takes time to plan for how you want to display your brand, how you want it to be represented,” said. 

Meanwhile, Richmond’s fashion scene remains active this fall with two upcoming events. Streetwear brand Urban Academy will host the “Varsity Club Fashion Show” featuring designer Sherry Nguyen on Nov. 11 at 8 p.m. at Brickwood restaurant, 2401 Main St. Tickets are available through Urban Academy’s website.

Additionally, artist and RVAFW partner Ryan Azia will present his second annual art exhibition, “Flowism,” on Nov. 16 at the Deco at CNB Apartments, 219 East Broad St. Fashion designer Noel Calubaquib will present a futurist-inspired collection during a fashion show held alongside the exhibition.