Resources
2026: Rooted Application Guidelines
Prepare what you need before applying!
Artist Information
(Needed for each designer)
Artist Contact Information
School Information (If applicable)
Artist Bio(s)
Resume/CV(s)
Photos of Previous Work (if applicable)
Submission Design Information
(Needed for each design submission)
Submission Title
Sketch of the Design
List of Materials to be used
At least 1 paragraph relating the design to the curatorial statement
Hair and Makeup inspiration photos
PLEASE NOTE:
Lack of these items will hinder application acceptance.
You are submitting a DESIGN, not a finished garment. Any applicant can submit up to 5 designs for consideration. It is the decision of the HCA Couture Committee which look(s) are accepted. If accepted, you will be notified of which piece(s) were accepted via email by no later than February 15th, 2026.
Submissions close Feb. 1, 2026
Design Theme Guidance
Designers are encouraged to explore what it means to be rooted—in history, place, culture, or personal story. Consider:
Textiles & Materials: Natural fibers, handwoven cloth, upcycled garments, or fabrics dyed with earthy pigments (rust, moss, clay, indigo).
Silhouettes & Structure: Shapes inspired by workwear, ceremonial attire, or garments passed down through generations.
Patterns & Motifs: Visual echoes of roots, branches, vines, tree rings, or other natural forms that symbolize growth and resilience.
Symbolism: Pieces that reflect community traditions, family heritage, or the continuity of local craft.
Modern Interpretations: Combining heritage elements with contemporary cuts to show how roots evolve while remaining present.
The goal is not only to create beautiful fashion, but to design with intention—to honor what grounds us, and to express how those roots nourish creativity for the future.
Designer Expectations
Designers provide their own models.
Designers are responsible for hair, make-up and styling of models day-of show.
Designers are allowed 1-2 helpers backstage to assist preparing the model. Service helpers like make-up designers and hair stylists should leave the staging area after performing their services.
Designers are expected to demonstrate professionalism to staff and others at all times.
Designers are responsible to communicate professionalism standards to their models and helpers and will be held accountable for their actions.
Submission & Participation Overview
Submit your application by Sunday, February 1st 2026
Receive your notification of acceptance by Sunday, February 15th 2026.
Agree to participate by completing your Artist Agreement Form sent with Notification of Acceptance by Sunday, February 22nd 2026.
Make your garment! Accepted artists have February - May to complete their garments.
Submit all needed model information before Friday, May 1, 2026.
Attend the walk-through rehearsal at noon on June 6, 2026 and return for the official show that evening with enough time to prepare your models.
HCA Couture Models
This years model call will take place as needed. Please check back at a later date.
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Archive
Where art takes the runway, Harrison County Arts fashion shows have been turning heads since 2022. Relive our past shows.