From left: Anita Hensley, Tim Gunn, IOCSA Media publisher Gayle Dendinger, Karen Dendinger, Mondo.

Tim Gunn and Mondo Guerra teamed up Thursday night at the annual Goodwill Exchange Fashion Show and put on a spectacular runway debut of talented young designers from the Denver area and the fashion forward looks of Goodwill affiliated second-hand store, Deja Blue Boutique. The show was followed by a clothing swap between attendees to encourage upcycling. Proceeds of the event benefit Goodwill’s career-development programs for at-risk youths, adults, and those with disabilities. Tim Gunn is well-known for his snappy suits, quick wit, and impressive vocabulary as the fashion mentor for designers on the reality TV show Project Runway for the past twelve seasons. Denver-based designer, Mondo, and Mr. Gunn met when Mondo was a contestant on season eight. Mondo made an impact with his bold prints and innovative style. Tim and the Denver fans of the show agreed that Mondo was robbed of his Project Runway victory. Mondo later triumphed with a win on Project Runway All Stars. Mondo and Tim now work collaboratively on Project Runway: Under the Gunn, a mentor-based version of Project Runway which premiered on January 16, 2014.

When asked what Tim and Mondo thought of the Denver fashion scene, they replied that whatever it is, it has to be warm. "Based on tonight I’m impressed, but I think everybody dressed up!" Gunn said. "I mean I’ll tell you right now, the Denver fashion scene, as far as I’m concerned, just be warm! That’s all that matters." The fashion show attendees braved harsh negative temperatures and snow to support Goodwill and local design students. When asked for their advice to artists trying to make it, they both agreed on knowing who you are as a person and being true to yourself. "Know who you are, and be tenacious... be a Weeble; Somebody knocks you over, bounce right back up." Gunn said, referencing the popular toy. Mondo echoed Gunn's sentiments. "Just be honest with yourself. Always display a sense of truth and always show that through your work." From student designers, to the guest mentors, to the audience, everyone left the Goodwill Exchange Fashion Show inspired. By Karen Lechtenberg