New Beginnings

Shawn Michael and Lauryn Grinnell are both popular salonists at Queen Anne’s plush Intermezzo. (Grinnell’s even done Lady Gaga’s hair!) Tonight they’re joining fashionable forces in the fight against domestic violence. All proceeds from the Runway to Freedom show benefit local non-profit New Beginnings, which provides 24-hour support for such victims. “We’ve given makeovers to some of the women in need,” says Michael. “This was kind of a progression, the next step of what we could do for them.” Three brands will showcase their designs at Ballard’s Franco-chic Bastille: Zebra Club’s urban casual, The Powder Room’s girly boutique-wear, and Lina Cho, a fresh new talent whose sheer floral minidresses recently made waves at the Art Institute’s spring fashion show. Appetizers will be available, as well as raffle tickets for salon products, dinners at Fare Start, and exclusive designer purses by Rian Handbags that will hit Nordstrom later this fall. And to ensure the party doesn’t stop, neo-soul singer Portia Monique will perform. And the always-entertaining Macklemore and Ryan Lewis will serve as the evening’s hosts. ERIN K. THOMPSON

Thu., Sept. 23, 8 p.m., 2010