Under a cascade of shimmering lights, models worked the runway to showcase different designers’ latest collections. Additionally, special guests and students ushered in entertaining performances in Neumann’s fashion show.
This year, Neumann University held its 3rd annual fashion show on Saturday, April 6. The show was open to all students and outside guests, with ticket prices ranging from $5 to $15.
Creativity was apparent in the production of the show, from the Men in Black themed apparel to the matching overall set decorations.
Arranged by Neumann’s Black Student Union, in partnership with the Knights Step Team, the fashion show not only showcased new designs and styles, but also featured several musical guests, along with a special performance from the Step Team.
Despite some dancing errors within their routine, the effort put into the initial choreography was beautiful and showcased the abilities and dedication of the Step Team.
However, a few students expressed differing opinions about this year’s event. In particular, students complained about the lack of fashion, performance creativity, and the controversial “It-Girl” attitude from the models.
Comparing it to its predecessors, these opinions are understandable. A fashion show entails an enticing ambience that keeps the audience attracted. The atmosphere did not align with these values in certain areas, which made the event feel dragged out.
People are often drawn to these types of events because of their captivating elements. These elements being the models’ walks, the outfits being presented, and the general set up of the stage. Slacking in any of these areas strips the appeal of a fashion show. Nevertheless, interacting with the crowd also plays a key role in keeping the audience interested.
The overall show displayed interactive qualities that were engaging with the crowd.
The spokesmen of the show and two performing artists remained engaging and elevated the crowd’s energy.
Audiences were able to engage in the show when asked to volunteer to be impromptu models, giving them the opportunity to walk down the runway. Once the crowd overcame their stage fright, many started walking down the aisle with ease. Some were accompanied by their friends as they enjoyed the spotlight, posing and simply savoring the moment together.
The artists made sure to entertain the crowd as well by directly speaking to them and arranging a sing along. Despite its differences and challenges, the fashion show was a success.
With the changes they endured and the challenges they overcame, BSU were able to execute the fashion show event nicely.
The performers and production crew adapted well and kept the annual tradition ongoing. Not only did the BSU students adjust to orchestrating this big event on their own, but they also decorated a larger scaled area than ever before. Planning and choreographing an event this big with a variety of personalities calls for a round of applause not just for the orchestrators but the models themselves, many of whom never participated in a fashion show.
Perfection is not a given but earned. It cannot be achieved without the opinions and efforts of others.
If overcoming a fear and enjoying the spotlight sounds like something that suites you, I recommend taking part in Neumann’s next fashion show in the spring. And, if you’re creative and confident enough in your abilities, I’d suggest putting forth some of your ideas to aid in the next event.
