Recap written by: Sydney Mahl
The twenty-two University of Texas senior fashion designers paraded their collections for a crowd of family, friends and fashion media in Elements. Ockhee Bego, the Fashion Show Director, called the event the designers’ “dream, soul, and passion” in her opening remarks, and their dedication clearly showed in their intricate, well-executed designs.
The show was broadcast LIVE on The Longhorn Network and hosted by Emmanuel Acho, UT Football Linebacker and former NFL player and Holly Mills-Gardner, former Miss Texas USA.
Carolina Ramos – Best Collection
The first component of the show was dedicated to activewear looks, ranging from fencing, golf to aviation. Designer Carolina Ramos showed a chic black and grey boxing two-piece which earned her the Best Active and Sportswear Award, and the Immersed in Cotton Active Sports Wear award went to Marisa Garcia for her skater girl red tank top paired with tailored black pants.
Fashion Show Photo Gallery
Marisa Garcia – Immersed in Cotton Activewear Award
This year’s show debuted the Spirit of UT Collection, a portion of the show dedicated to collaborating together to create looks for athletes to wear after the game and featured UT Austin athlete alumni, such as A.J. Abrams, Brooke McCarthy, and Brad Buckman. Long-time Apparel Design Faculty member Eve Nicols was honored for her long-time contributions for directing the UT Fashion Show. She took the show nearly 20 years ago from a small gathering in a conference room to the large Erwin Center production today.
Paige Rahe – Best Evening Gown
Next, the three piece collections were sent down the runway. Each was cohesive and conceptually interesting, with many featuring innovative cuts and a trend of unexpected back detailing. The designers also showcased evening wear and bridal looks. Paige Rahe’s old Hollywood glamour dress in vibrant emerald green winning the top Evening Wear award and Hannah Leonard’s ruffled gown winning the Bridal Wear award.
Hannah Leonard – Best Bridal Gown
Hannah Leonard’s collection titled Carnaby Street”collection earned her the award for Best Technical Collection and Kara Crosby’s nod to the 50’s Over Time collection won University Co-Op Most Marketable. The Independence Title Most Innovative Collection was awarded to Tasneem Saifee, whose “Skylar” collection featured black leather pieces intricately bound together by gold metal. Finally, Carolina Ramos won Best Collection with her minimalist take on tailored leather jackets and crisp white dresses.
Overall, the professional level of the show spoke volumes about those a part of it; the students could have not been more in their element. Congratulations to all those who participated: it was truly a night to remember.
Tasneem Saifee – Most Innovative Collection
Kara Crosby – Most Marketable Collection Kara Crosby – Most Marketable Collection
Photos: Gregg Cestaro and Cheryl Bemis