Destruction and rebirth was the focus of the Age of Aquarius fashion show that took place in the packed aquatic center as LBCC, Renaissance High School and Millikan High School students showcased their creativity and resolve through their fashion creations.
In addition to being a fashion show, the event was also a competition, judged by people working in the fashion industry, such as Nike and FashionNova, for scholarship opportunities.
“This is our 39th show. It has happened every two years for a very long time, but because of the pandemic, our show had to go on hiatus as we brought students’ skills up to a level where they can create garments that can go on the runway,” said fashion and merchandising program director Chantel Bryant.
The fashion show hasn’t been held since 2019 it was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic which meant many past students didn’t get a chance to show off their work.
“We have a broad range of students covering the last six years. Some have traveled from out of state to showcase their garments here tonight,” Bryant said.
Students could submit garments in seven categories: who best fit the theme, swimwear, senior collections, day dresses, sportswear, eveningwear, and special occasions.
In addition, students could win best in show, most marketable and the next generation awards for high school students.
Randy Fernando received the best in show award which is for the garment that stunned the judges the most, he also won first place for sunlight style.
“I’m so proud of him, I know that’s his passion and we are just here to support him and cheer him on,” said Fernando’s sister Marilyn Toledo.
Industry judges discussed what advice they’d like to give to the student designers; Adriana Beingdea, assistant designer for Cleobella said, “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, that’s how you learn,” Priscilla Garibay, senior swimwear designer for RVCA said, “You have to be confident in the things you make.”
The show also had a virtual design component with animated models projected on the screen modeling virtually rendered clothing.
“This is our first year offering this, it’s where the industry is going, and it is an opportunity to reduce waste and speed up production in the fashion industry,” Bryant said.
There was also a pop-up selling clothing and jewelry, along with raffle prizes and a silent auction where people could place bids.
A camera crew filmed the entire event, and the models were shown on two giant screens so the people on the second floor could see everything happening below.
Students played a major role in producing the show. They conducted photoshoots and created a social media campaign for the event. The fashion promotion class developed the Age of Aquarius theme, inspired by the concepts of destruction and rebirth.
This show also received help from the fashion club, which helped raise funds for the event. They also had support from the athletic department, aquatic center, multi-media services and tons of sponsored donors.
To end the runway portion of the event, all the models came out one final time standing and posing together as the audience erupted in applause.
“For the models, I’d like them to know they did a great job, the show was incredible. And for the designers, the production was amazing and they did an awesome job, they should be proud,” said Toldeo.
A digital lookbook will be offered with the final day to place an order being June 5th. https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLGXXAPMB90K2/checkout/HIULZFAJPUYR2SN74IVR7QET?src=webqr