It’s not that often the world’s most famous fashion designers bring their clothing to Selma, which is why the Ebony Fashion Fair is always a big hit when it comes to town each year.

For nearly 25 years the Selma Alumni Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha has provided residents with a one-night-only opportunity to see a fashion show normally reserved for the rich and famous.

“Each year is just keeps getting bigger and bigger,” said Jerolene Williams, chairman of the Fashion Fair committee. “I’m excited about this year’s fashion show because it’s going to be our best yet.”

The Ebony Fashion Show is set to take place at 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 14, at J. Pickard Auditorium.

The theme for the night, “Living It Up!” is in celebration of the 47th anniversary of the Ebony Fashion Fair.

Williams said the audience will definitely feel like they’re living it up as they watch twelve models – ten women and two men – showcase the extravagant styles of designers Oscar de la Renta, Bob Mackie, Christian LaCroix, Hanae Mori and black designers Fusha and Kate Mack.

“The fashion show is always popular because it gives people a chance to see something different and culturally entertaining,” Williams said.

The designs include a white denim Western outfit with rhinestones, feathers and beads and a feathers-and-fur poncho paired with suede-trimmed jeans.

The Ebony Fashion Fair was created in 1958 by Selma native and Ebony magazine creator Eunice Johnson.

Johnson is a graduate of Selma High School and Talladega College. After moving to Chicago she married John H. Johnson, publisher and chairman of Johnson Publishing Co. Johnson and her husband were also instrumental in developing Fashion Fair Cosmetics, a leader in makeup for black women.

Williams said all the proceeds from the Ebony Fashion Fair will go towards the alumni sorority’s scholarship fund.

“We’ve given over $25,000 in scholarships in the last three years,” Williams said.

To purchase tickets for the show, contact Williams at 875-1629.