Gorgy by Candy’s runway celebration honors Black History Month

On February 28, 2026, the New Britain Library hosted a fashion show celebrated Black History Month, bringing together local designers, performers, organizations, and vendors for a morning centered on culture and community.

Guests first explored booths from small Black-owned businesses, selling things from African-style clothing to handmade jewelry. The market-like atmosphere highlighted local businesses while setting stage for the event.

The runway portion featured around 15 models coming from different backgrounds and ages, emphasizing diversity. The DJ also highlighted music from different eras of African American history throughout the morning.

To begin, Candyce Scott, the designer of Gorgy by Candy, talked about the deep meaning behind her line. Scott allows all of the models to choose and put together their own outfits, emphasizing confidence, personal expression, and individuality. 

The show opened with models wearing Gorgy by Candy’s Pan African flag-inspired collection, featuring black, red, green, and cultural flags. As models changed their outfits backstage throughout the show, the audience was invited to sing karaoke, creating a collaborative and interactive environment. The first audience member sang “New York, New York,” and the audience enthusiastically sang along. 

Local performers took the stage during the show. New Britain-based artist, called Bull Dogg, performed three times that morning, sharing original rap pieces focused on Black history and gospel. Later in the event, a volunteer led everyone to join together to sing “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Negro National Anthem. 

“Launch Clothing” was a memorable brand in the show. Models came down the runway in clothes based on urban wear, expanded to Afrocentric wear. The clothes were 60s-70s era themed, and each piece of clothing was deeply described, from the pattern to the material, by the owner. 

“The Beehive Mercantile,” a flea market known for crafts, booths, and handmade items, was promoted during this event as well. Models showed off flannel shirts decorated with unique handmade stitching, which were said to be given to Scott by a woman at the Beehive. 

Community organizations were especially highlighted at this event. A representative from Gateway to Life spoke about their work and fundraising for victims of domestic violence and fire tragedies. A representative from L.E.A.D. (Leadership, Education, Advocacy, Diversity) also came up and shared information about the organization, which provides classes, activities, and crafts for their community. 

One section of the show, called the “Love Scene”, featured clothes from Gorgy by Candy, which incorporated red, pink, and flowers. These clothes were meant to be a tribute to February’s Valentine’s Day. Another segment promoted Scott’s new children’s book, “Candyce Goes To School”. Models walked out holding the book and merchandise inspired by the cover. Scott shared that the book is all about encouraging young readers to stay curious and creative. 

An especially impactful moment in the show was when models went out and read quotes from different influential black leaders, reinforcing the historical focus of the event. 

The event concluded with all the models walking out together. Scott closed the show with remarks celebrating the creative diversity of all models, while also emphasizing the importance of celebrating Black history all throughout the year.