From gypsy style lingerie to retro swim wear - models took the stage Wednesday night showing off the latest threads created by local fashion designers.

Dozens braved the crowd at Oak Street Speakeasy bar for the first ever Lingerie/Swimsuit show.The fashion event is one of four shows that is part of the six year running Eugene Fashion Week.

Eugene Fashion Week started when two local fashion designers, Mitra Chester and Laura Lee Laroux, decided to create an event for local designers to showcase their latest garments.

Laroux has been drawn to the fashion industry ever since she could pick up a needle and thread.

"I realized that I just couldn't live without it," Laroux said. "I had to be creative."

Laroux's style is certainly creative, as she turns recycled scraps into runway fashion. "This was an old dress that I just cut apart and these were curtains," Laroux said.

This week Laroux is among dozens of local designers showcasing fashion unique to Eugene. "It encompasses genres all the way from a hippie style to a punk and grunge style," Laroux said.

However, organizers said the event is about more than recognizing fashion that is unique to Eugene. Eugene Fashion Week also brings attention to a growing trend of independent designers who say their work is better than what's mass produced. "It helps you realize you could meet a seamstress and tell them what you want and they could make it for you, " said Mac Goodwin, co-producer of Eugene Fashion Week.

Eugene Fashion Week events are listed below.

Friday: "Ready to Wear/Evening Wear," 8:30 p.m. at Broadway Commerce Center, $10.

Saturday: "Eighteen and Under Fashions," 1:30 p.m. at Broadway Commerce Center, $10.

"Avant Garde/Costume," 8:30 p.m. at Broadway Commerce Center, $10.