A few weeks ago, I went to the Black Student Union 24| 7ashion show last week. According to the FIT club page, the black student union is an “organization that brings together African American students and other students of African descent to promote black culture and international awareness within FIT and the surrounding community.” Though the BSU is an organization geared towards promoting black culture on campus the show was a far cry from a solely black fashion show. There was diversity in the every aspect of the show from models, designers and even the entertainment of the evening.
As opposed the stereotypical 6’2 models, we were greeted with models heights as diverse as (something diverse) and the models were all the shades of the skin colored crayon box. The models weren’t the only element of the show that was diverse. The music wasn’t the typical mod, upbeat, entrancing music usually played at fashion shows. Instead, there was a live band that played to the side of the stage while the models strut. The band had a wide range of musical stylings ranging from classic Aaliyah to more sultry music, enhancing the feel of the collections.
Amanda Seales, from MTV’s “Girl Code” was the host, and she was great. Anyone who attends shows (fashion, music, comedy, etc.) knows just how important the host is. If they are obviously nervous or unable to interact with crowd, it can really change the whole energy of the show.
Although, the BSU’s fashion show was full of unexpected surprises, what I liked most about the show was that it gave non-design majors an opportunity to showcase their work. This fashion show was open to any FIT student, regardless of major. Many FIT students have an affinity towards different areas within the fashion industry. It’s amazing just how multifaceted and talented the FIT student body, and it’s beautiful when everyone has the opportunity to showcase their art.
Congratulations to Eva Mohrman, Brian Kessler, Mark Johnson, Cassandra Carrasquillo, Steven Ricketts, Karla McCormicks, all the other designers and everyone else who helped to make organize such a nice event!
All things Color, Love & Fashion,
Ayanna L.