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 With G-d's Name, The Merciful Benefactor, The Merciful Redeemer

Experience the “15th Annual Sisters Only Fashion Show and Luncheon” in Washington, DC on March 13, 2011

written by Zarinah Shakir

The International Sisters Network (ISN) presented its 15th Annual Sisters Only Fashion Show and Luncheon on Sunday, March 13, 2011.  The program was held at its most frequented location, the Washington Navy Yard Catering and Conference Center, 1454 Parsons Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20874.

ISN was founded in 1996 with the first intention of begging ALLAH, SWT for mercy, forgiveness, guidance and Jannah Firdaus Tallah (the highest station in Paradise, closest to ALLAH) without going to the hell fire.  The second intention is to assist various charities which are one of the pillars of AL-ISLAM.  Throughout the past fifteen years those recipient organizations, to name a few, have been Clara Muhammad School of Washington, DC, Al-Nisaa Sisters Shelter in Baltimore, Maryland, and An-Nur Academy in Lanham, Maryland.   We will be striving to incorporate calling or visiting the sick and shut in.

This year’s theme was “Treasures of the East” which featured designers’ creations with a Middle Eastern flair and East Coast representation, a play on the word “East.”  The genesis of the program in 1996 began at Highland Park Elementary School in Landover, Maryland with very few designers.  The first designer, who has remained committed over the past fifteen years, is Joyce Rasool of Rasool’s Fashions.  Other long-time participants include Ruth Jackson of Desert Dreams, Lubna Muhammad of Lubna’s Closet, Sylvia Shabazz of Sylvia’s Designs, Vernell Omar and Anju of Sanriq Styles.  Younger and promising designers are Jamila Madyun who started with the show at the age of sixteen, and Rayisa Kashif at 10 years old.  

As the audience of the Sisters Only Fashion Show and Luncheon grew from 50-75 attendees to now over 350 devoted followers, some of the designers/seamstresses have come and gone; however, there has been a commitment of many designers over the years with an increase each year of the clothing stylists and accessory artists.   Some of the models have grown up with the show while other adult models return just for the camaraderie.

From beginning to end, this event has been supported by Aisha Abdul Mateen as Coordinator, and other committee organizers:  Joyce Rasool, Cristal Hassan, Ruth Jackson, Sylvia Shabazz, Nia Shabazz, Devonne Bilal, Ruth Bilal (the only photographer) Endesha Rahim Hassan, Myisha Kashif (young seamstress/designer and Gamma Gamma Chi Muslim Sorority).  Additionally, the enormous crew and contributing volunteers have been numerous, including: designers/seamstresses, models, brochure and flyer designers, financial advisors, ticket and sales coordinators, caterers, performers, commentators, Patrons, advertisers, an outstanding music deejay, Michelle R. Wright, and, of course, security.

New and returning sisters in the audience enjoy a full day of fun, food and a family friendly atmosphere, inshaAllah.   The charitable purpose is not lost as each one contributes as an attendee, volunteer or vendor. 

The ISN Sisters Only Fashion Show and Luncheon tickets are $50 and $25 for children.   For more information call 240-606-6122 or 202-271-7473.   Any mail may be sent to ISN, P.O. Box 4051, Capitol Heights, MD  20791-4051.

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