Fashion Dreckitude

In a typical fashion show, models walk the catwalk dressed in clothing created by a designer. This is where the latest fashion trends are made. There are certain expectations when attending a fashion show. First, the audience expects actual fashion (which we can agree is subjective). Second, they hope the designer has selected models with decent walks. Third, we hope the show tells a story.  

During homecoming, the "fashion" show was a major fail, with a capitol F. To make it simple, there was no fashion, the models' walk needed major help, and the music was lack luster. The entire show lacked creativity, vision, and order. It seemed as though the show was planned the very same day, allowing any random person to partake. The construction of the runway also contributed to the downfall of the show.

 Although big name designers such as Prabul Gurung, Diane Von Furstenberg and Helmut Lang are not shown at college fashion shows, onlookers anticipate seeing some creativity and style.  Destroyed t-shirts and jean shorts are the total opposite. Revealing does not equal sex appeal. "Sexiness should not be overt. Something shapeless that drapes across your hip, hangs off your shoulder; something that cowls in the front, drapes low in the back, that's sexy," says Rachel Zoe, celebrity stylist. Being overtly sexy shows lack of creativity and does a disservice to the modeling troupe itself. Their reputation is on the line each time they walk on that stage. Leggings are also passé, unless there is a new twist such as, sophisticated prints, shapes or texture. Fashion designer CynthiaRowley'sdisplay of prints is a great example of a modern take on leggings. Her leggings look polished enough for an older woman to be comfortable, but funky enough for a younger fashionista to incorporate it into her own style.

Some of the most famous models, such as Naomi Campbell and Freja Beha Erichsen, have signature walks. Along with a unique look, a model's walk is a deciding factor on booking a show. As spectators, they want to see long strides versus choppy marching band high steps. This is not the half time show of a football game. The models had signature walks, but the signature was a display of poor penmanship.  Does Jay Alexander, Runway Diva Coach Extraordinaire, teach modeling classes pro bono? You should never rush the runway; it's your time to shine. Practice makes perfect. But don't let a bad walk discourage you. Model Freja Beha Erichsen is known for her bad runway walk, but she makes up for it in her ability to take great photos.

Ask yourself, what story did the fashion show tell? I'm sure many of you are having a hard time answering that question. Maybe a story of sadness or boredom. The show left the audience wanting so much more. An onlooker said, "I thought this was a practice run, I'm still waiting for the real show to begin." I also spoke with a former member of Raw Essence, who requested to remain nameless, who stated the lack of creativity was disappointing and he knows the troupe could do better.

We hope next years' fashion show is a success and something for Shaw Bears to talk about for years to come.