Was there fame in our fashion show?

As quickly as our overextended centennial homecoming came, it has ended just as quickly. My favorite homecoming event has always been the Fame & Fashion Show, but just when it was a fashion show and not a combination of laughs and clothing lines. Of course I’ve never been a spectator, the past four years of my collegiate career I’ve walked in every show, so this year was a little different for me. Being a fashion major and an obvious lover of the artistry and creativity of fashion, it only made sense that I analyze every line, every piece, the aesthetics, creativity, and show as a whole for what it was, a fashion showcase. First I’d like to commend the Student Government Association, the designers, and models for their role in the fashion show, the duties placed on everyone are probably more than anyone would understand if spectating. As I watched the fashion show video put together by The Edge 1 Productions, I had to think to myself, are we really seeing anything new? Was anything that we witnessed innovating? Yes and no, actually. The boutiques brought out feminine, daring and every-day girl looks. I enjoyed them because what girl doesn’t love a store that’s a one stop shop for every look we absolutely need in our wardrobe. Next we have our urban wear lines and that’s where my initial question lies. Each year we’ve seen the same array of items prancing down the runway, in the same fashion with a few exemptions each year. This past year in urban fashion has been in slight disarray, compliments of the great Kanye West and “fashion killa” ASAP Rocky. But how much leather, zippers, joggers and screen-print tees, just as long as mini dresses, can one of many fashion shows take? Each urban line has one of those things in common. Yes, I do understand that these items will make you money due to the high demand of being a “hype beast” or being into “trill fashion” but when will the creators of fashion create the next trend or the next fresh garment. We design to create new things, to bring about the next wave of clothing that can change the fashion world as a business and from a creative standpoint. Today, everyone is a designer, but not everyone can design; if that makes sense. Your vision and aesthesis is what makes you different, your voice as a designer of many is what makes you stand out from your peers. I’d take a look at the late Alexander McQueen’s career to find the answers if you’re ever looking for the blueprint to standing out as a designer. Fashion is swift, cutting edge, and downright cut throat. I truly want all these designers emerging from Southern University to be visionaries beyond reason. As many duplicates as there are, there are too many too close and in-between the real. Be a visionary and be an artist. Make your money by all means, but let’s think ahead. All in all I witnessed the potential growth of talent in some lines. No shade, all love. Stay fashion forward! XO