Xantha Rips the Runway – And Says "I Do"
Photo By Terry
Gilliam
By Karen Perkins
For YourNewsColumbus
Posted 10-13-09
The Xantha X-perience on Sunday evening at the Lincoln Theatre was truly an event to remember, with a surprise finale befitting the designer's 20-year milestone.
Nineteen beautiful women, and two handsome guys, all ages, sizes, and ethnicities, pony walked, and "strutted their stuff" to the sultry soulful sounds of Sabrina Tutstone. They ripped the runway in leather, lace, feathers, fur, sparkles and animal prints, and showcased some of the most outstanding fashions of Xantha’s 20-year career.
The fashion show had an overall feel of a Broadway play, with the theme of the evening being mission impossible, secret agents, and covert operations. Xantha’s mission, and "accept it" she did, was to present runway scenes and short skits titled "Smooth and Sexy", "Keep it Different and Wild", "Create Carefree Clothing", and "Help Others to Believe in Themselves". Her last two scenes "Put a Ring on It", and "Carpe Diem – Seize the Day" teased the audience and prepared them for what was to happen next.
Xantha, wearing a ruffled organza strapless wedding dress with glass beads that were hand-sewn by each bridesmaid, and jacket of ivory brocade with silver threads throughout, walked down the aisle at the Lincoln Theatre. She joined long-time beau Steve Schumaker on stage, as the two tied the knot in front of a highly spirited crowd that was over the top with screams of excitement..
Xantha promised a surprise during the show, and from the audience reaction, everyone was rocked.
"She really did it," screamed Darlene, one of Xantha's new fans.
This was a "Ladies Night Out" to remember, said another fan, Deborah...
"The show is fabulous," she said." This is my first time attending a Xantha show. She is a very unique and talented individual."
Yet another booster, Charlene said, "Everything as far as fashion and style is right here in Columbus . Xantha is a dynamic designer."
And now she accessorizes with her own Schumaker.