When GQ Magazine called Boulder a “worst-dressed city that looks the best naked,” most of us took the whole statement as a compliment. High fashion here is rare (it looks so uncomfortable), and when it does rear its head the effect is usually less chic and more err . . . artistic.
Take this Friday night, when runway lights will shine on Condom Couture, a fashion gala at the Boulder Theater showcasing creations cut not from cloth, but entirely out of condoms and various other latex sex barriers.
Models will strut the catwalk in wearable art designed by 23 local artists. A panel of judges will deem top design honors in myriad categories, doling out cash prizes and bragging rights.
The point? To promote safe and positive sex while raising cash for Boulder Valley Women’s Health (aka Women’s Health). This 40-year-old stalwart for comprehensive sexual health care and education runs clinics in Boulder and Longmont that serve adults and teens – regardless of their economic, immigration or insurance status.
Condom Couture will have all the trappings of a good fundraising shindig: silent auction, live auction, fabulous prizes. Celebrated music mixers Global DJ Academy will spin tunes. Emcee is Brandi Shigley, a design star and entrepreneur who is leading a westward fashion renaissance through her company Fashion Denver. She’ll voice the runway show before a rapt audience of supporters, fashionistas and pro-choice warriors.
Friday’s Condom Couture is a version of the same-name show put on by Planned Parenthood in cities across the country. Billed as a four-decade fashion affair, the Boulder event will highlight looks from the 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s.
Elegant yet quirky. Flowing but stiff. Brash yet refined. Who knows? You’ll have to see the fashion to review it.
Condom Couture
Friday, November 8, 7:30 p.m.
Boulder Theater
Tickets from $20 – $100
All proceeds benefit Boulder Valley Women’s Health Center
