Project Runway: From the Phipps to NYC

• Young model Audrey Hatch of Hudson

Audrey Hatch paused as writers and fashion photographers watched and clapped for the young model making her way back up the runway. Photo by Shane O’Neil.
• Aubrey with designer and family friend Malan Breton

After Audrey’s makeup was complete, designer and family friend Malan Breton stopped to visit. Submitted photo

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Fashion week hits New York City twice a year in September and February. It is when all the designers create runway fashion shows to introduce their newest work to an audience hungry to see the next fashion phenomenon.

As far as Dan and Angelique Hatch of Hudson are concerned that phenomonen is their daughter Audrey. The six-year-old was in the fashion week runway show for family friend and designer Malan Breton.

When Angelique was sharing the experience Audrey had while participating in The Phipps Center for the Arts summer art program Project Runway taught by Karon Knottingham with Breton, he said, “Let’s have her in my show.”

In a whirlwind day , Audrey was fitted with her dress, had a makeup session, rehearsal and the runway show. It was the day Breton would showcase his 2010 Spring Collection.

“Audrey opened the show,” said Angelique. “It was like nothing I have ever seen.”

The Hudson first-grader, whose favorite subject is math, fit right into the buzz taking with her what she learned about fashion and modeling during her summer art class.

As Audrey paused at the end of the runway, she admitted she was nervous.

“They were still taking my picture so I just stayed there,” said Audrey, who came home with the dress she modeled. “I can give it to one of my daughters.”

In the meantime her mom Angelique admits to being near tears.

“There was this collective intake of breath and then they all started clapping and cheering for her,” said Angelique.

The family met Breton at a fundraising event held by the Broadway Cares /Equity Fights Aids.

“My parents, Tim and Judy Dove, discovered the group on a trip to New York years ago. That’s how we got involved,” said Angelique. “We have become huge supporters of the cause.”

“Malan Breton was a contestant in Project Runway Season Three,” said Angelique. “He volunteers his time and talents with BC/EFA and that is how we met. We became fast friends and I talk to him every day.”

While in New York, Audrey and her family also participated in the Race for the Cure in Central Park on Sept. 13 in addition to a little shopping and sightseeing.

You can see Audrey as well as all of the other models in Breton’s show on www.elle.com or at http://www.malanbreton.com

Tags: arts and entertainment, aubrey hatch, lifestyle, fashion, model