Stephens Auditorium: The Fashion Show members reflect on Midnight Bloom

The 42nd annual Fashion Show commenced with grandeur on April 20th at Stephens Auditorium, marking a celebration of creativity and innovation within the student designer community. With this year’s theme, Midnight Bloom, as their guiding muse, more than 75 student designers embarked on a journey of artistic exploration and expression.

Reflecting on the culmination of months of meticulous planning and dedication, key figures from The Fashion Show’s committees shared their perspectives on the event’s orchestration and the relentless efforts invested behind the curtains.

Madeline Hayes, serving as the Marketing Director and a senior in marketing, expressed her awe at witnessing the fruition of the students’ endeavors. “This was my first year involved in The Fashion Show, and the experience was nothing short of mesmerizing. Witnessing the culmination of talent, dedication, and hard work showcased by fellow students left me profoundly inspired,” remarked Hayes.

The evening unfolded with a blend of retail therapy, as merchandise adorned the venue, alongside poignant speeches delivered by committee members, collaborators, and faculty members. Following the spectacle on the runway, a poignant moment ensued as committee members themselves graced the catwalk, a symbolic gesture acknowledging the collective effort behind the organization’s marquee event.

Emma Allen, a member of the marketing committee and a sophomore in English, shed light on the transition from spectator to participant, underscoring the exhilaration of contributing to a landmark event. “Partaking in the show was undeniably more demanding, yet infinitely more gratifying. The culmination of efforts on the day of the show, coupled with the recognition received during the runway walk, epitomized the essence of reward,” shared Allen.

The marketing endeavors, spearheaded by Hayes and her team, encompassed a spectrum of initiatives aimed at garnering campus-wide and community attention. From orchestrating pop-up displays to facilitating collaborations with local businesses, the marketing committee left no stone unturned in amplifying the event’s reach.

Alejandra Palou, director of the Visual Merchandising Committee and a sophomore in apparel, merchandising, and design, elaborated on the collaborative efforts undertaken to create an immersive experience for attendees. “Our committee’s endeavors extended beyond conventional realms, from installations across campus to strategic partnerships with local vendors. Witnessing the fruition of our collective vision was profoundly rewarding,” shared Palou.

Abigail Klauer, director of the Fashion Show’s design committee and a senior in apparel, merchandising, and design, offered poignant insights into the camaraderie and resilience exhibited throughout the event’s preparation. “One cherished memory from this year’s event was the camaraderie shared during the early morning hustle across campus. Despite the challenges, the experience fostered lasting bonds and memories,” reminisced Klauer.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the runway, various committees worked tirelessly behind the scenes, hosting Fashion Week events, orchestrating stage decorations, and providing invaluable support to models and designers.

As Emma Allen aptly summarized, “The Fashion Show 2024 epitomized success, underscoring the collective prowess of each committee. It’s a testament to the remarkable achievements possible through concerted efforts in a student-run production of such magnitude.”

Content courtesy of IOWA State Daily & NFH Digital Team