I've done fashion shows before, and often there are "segments" to the show, or themes, such as evening attire, swimsuit, casual, etc. depending on the designer or sponsor of the show. The one's that I've done always wanted instrumental upbeat music as the designer or boutique owner would often speak over the music and discuss the pieces. Now that isn't always the case, and as such the music would be more in line with the styles of the category, but typically was still instrumental, as the music is supposed to enhance the atmosphere subconsciously... not be recognizable and distract from the focus of the attire... for example swimsuit would have tropical house music as I mentioned before... kind of that miami beach/rooftop party vibe... evening had more of a sexy deep house vibe... think nyc or la upscale lounge where it's a bit more sophisticated... and every other category was somewhere in between. Ultimately though, the designer/boutique owner would best express that.
To the OP, if this was local to me, I'd likely assume this contact person is looking for that upbeat house music atmosphere, especially bc of the mention of no vocals.... but honestly, you should just ask for some clarification. You're in Charleston, SC... this could go both ways... there are "simpler" crowds who it's best to keep things more "mainstream" and then there are the ritzy/trendy crowds that are exposed to more diverse experiences. As you can see just from this post alone, you have a multitude of opinions as to what fashion show appropriate music is.
