By JULIE DUVALL
BYU will start the new year in style as the Clothing and Textile Department presents their annual fashion show Saturday.
Student designers have been submitting ideas for unique clothing lines since Fall semester, hoping for the opportunity to display their own line of clothing to an audience that will include June Beckstead, head women’s apparel designer for Gap, and alumna designer Brandi Sanchez, who will present a line composed entirely of metal.
“Students submit their croquis (sketches or illustrations of their clothing) early in Fall sememster. We jury them and in some cases go back to the designer for revisions,” said Michelle Hyde, faculty supervisor and mentor.
Students start preparing for this event during the previous semesters, taking several prerequisite classes that are required for eligibility in the fashion show.
Creativity is a must for the student designers who want to see their designs on the runway. “We stress they create a look or a theme for their line,” Hyde said.
Once students have drawn their designs, they face the challenge of bringing the sketches to life, overseeing every aspect of production, including choosing fabrics and patterns. While some work is contracted out in the interest of time, most students do all of their own sewing and even do the fittings with the models in order to save money.
It is not uncommon for students to spend $800 of their own money in order to create a unique line of clothing.
Like most of the student designers, Alyson Hancey has been preparing for this show for over a year and has spent more than $1000 on her line of men’s skiwear. While admitting that it has been difficult, Hancey said the benefits that come as a result of the show are worth all the hard work that goes into preparation.
“It has taken an extreme amount of time,” Hancey said. “It is a great opportunity for portfolio material, plus I have always wanted to participate in something like this at BYU. It has been well worth it.”
The annual fashion show has gained a reputation of professionalism throughout the fashion industry and has hosted guests from Ralph Lauren, Liz Caliborne and Karen Kane in the past. It is designed to give students exposure to the professional world and prepare them for future careers.
“Students come out with a very nice portfolio and a very professional video,” Hyde said.
The fashion show will take place in the ELWC Ballroom at 7:30 p.m. Tickets will be sold at the ELWC terrace Friday from noon to 2 p.m. Remaining tickets will be available at the door 5 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $7 for reserved seating and $5 for general admission.
