Carmen Louisa Diaz and Yonah Piedagnel, roommates from Livingston St., walked the runway on October 26 at John’s Crazy Socks annual fashion show at Walt Whitman Shops in Huntington Station.

Now in its third year, the Another Face of Beauty Show is dedicated to not only showcasing John’s creative sock line but also to empowering models, artists and musicians with disabilities to display their talents to the community. From the musicians to the models, the show is composed entirely of people with disabilities

“It was so much fun,” said Louisa. “It made me feel so happy.”

Preparing for the Main Event

Louisa and Yonah attended a dress rehearsal on October 23, where they practiced walking down the runway. They also learned a group dance to music by the Family Residences and Essential Enterprises (FREE), FREE Players Drum and Bugle Corps. The rehearsal also gave the women a chance to meet people with shared experiences and similar hobbies

The ladies’ excitement only continued to build in anticipation of the show. When the day of the event finally arrived, they headed to the mall.  There, they had their makeup done at Sephora and took selfies under a bright ring light.

Time on the Runway

Louisa and Yonah walked the runway in fashion by Uniqlo and accessories from Paper Source. Both women took a turn in the spotlight, showcasing beauty, talent, inclusion, and diversity for the mall’s shoppers. They also had fun catching up with fellow models and new friends about the experience.

Louisa had the wonderful opportunity to visit John’s Crazy Socks factory in Huntington with her day program in the spring. There she learned of John Cronin’s inspiring story of starting a business with his partner and strongest advocate, his father. After an enlightening factory tour, she met with John, and they discussed their mutual love of whimsical socks.

Shortly after the factory visit, John’s Crazy Socks invited Louisa to participate in the upcoming fashion show and extended an invitation to Yonah, too. With the support of Activities Specialist Amy Yeung, Louisa and Yonah created a memory they will cherish for a lifetime.

“All the models have different abilities,” said John. “It’s a lot of fun, there’s live music, and entertainment. It was wonderful.”