Spotlights beam down onto the runway as models walk down the runway wearing unique, handmade outfits curated by design students.
The Fashion studies program at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale hosted their annual fashion runway show. Students in the fashion studies program showcased their collections that they have been working on since the beginning of the fall semester.
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Having hosted the event for over 30 years, Program Director Laura Kidd planned ahead of time, booking the ballroom a year in advance. Throughout the semester, students prepare to present their final portfolio before graduation.
Students created multiple fashion lines to be presented. They begin with sketches, which are then discussed and selected; then they begin to work on their patterns. Participating seniors do their own fitting for their specific models and construct their final garments.
Senior Aaron Elliott created a line titled “Expectations” inspired by expectations put on LGBTQ men and women and the relationship that is bonded between them.
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“Dr. Kidd, the head of our department, has really inspired me to really further my research into fashion and do research on fashion,” Elliott said.
Many other students also said they give credit to program director Laura Kidd who has impacted their creativity and their college experience in the fashion studies program
“She is supportive and wants to see people succeed, she knows what you’re capable of so she’ll push you to make sure that you can do that,” Senior Lisa Vasilopolous said.
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