Martinsburg is celebrating a week dedicated to fashion, faith, creativity, and philanthropy with the revival of Christian Fashion Week. Originally founded in Tampa, Florida, the event commenced on Monday and will culminate in a grand fashion show on Saturday at The Purple Iris, starting at 6 p.m.
The decision to resurrect this event comes eight years after its last occurrence in Florida. Co-founder and former model Mayra Gomez explained that unforeseen circumstances had previously halted the event. However, the revival was inspired by a chance meeting between Gomez and Miss Uganda 1997, Lilian (Acorn) McClung. Gomez, who had previously run a fashion show ministry called Model4Jesus, reconnected with McClung through this ministry.
“I used to have a ministry called Model4Jesus, and I did fundraising fashion shows for organizations that help women,” Gomez said. “Lilian contacted me during that time, and that’s how we got to know each other.”
McClung proposed bringing Christian Fashion Week to the Eastern Panhandle, taking on the event’s ownership while keeping Gomez involved. Initially surprised by the suggestion to host the event in West Virginia, Gomez agreed after engaging with the local community.
Both McClung and Gomez share a passion for transforming women’s lives through faith and fashion. Their mission is to reshape perceptions of faith, fashion, and wellness through empowering events that promote self-esteem, diversity, and community support.
