Hannah Zientek, ’22, Staff Writer
Students in Immaculata University’s Fashion Merchandising program created a night to remember on the evening of Saturday, April 2nd in the Great Hall. This annual show is a fundraiser which we hold to help local high school students who can not afford prom dresses to wear on their prom night. It is an honor to be able to put on this show. This year it meant much more to our students because of Covid not allowing us to display our various works of art in person the past two years. Our theme titled “Under The Stars” was chosen to indeed prove that our students are all shining stars who are dedicated to Immaculata and driven to create success.
The evening began with features from local fashion designer, Deborah Ann Mack’s collection of garments, worn by students modeling her clothing. Next, we showcased donated prom dresses from David’s Bridal 2022 collection worn by Immaculata students and local high school students. Members of the African American Cultural Society also created wonderful pieces worn with expression to display their routes and traditions of culture through the use of colors and textures. Lastly, handmade designs by Immaculata Fashion Merchandising students who take on the challenges of product development and construction apparel. These original garments sold the night for all in attendance. Winning best student design was John Bohrer ‘23, a Junior at Immaculata who created sustainable coats used with corduroy fabrics, calling them the “Pillow Puffas.” Coming in second was Siani Brownlee ‘22, a Senior at Immaculata who created elegantly detailed clothes consisting of various fabrics. Included were a dress, set of pants, shorts, and a jacket with the colors black, gold and extra sparkle added to each piece of her work. Each of our student designs shows the hard work, dedication, and commitment we have to fashion and those who participate and benefit from this wonderful event.
As we concluded our show, students and designers walked the runway together one last time. With tears of joy, happiness, and receiving applause of praise from family and friends. As students, we are so thankful to have the support of our University, faculty, and staff in hosting this show with us each year. A special thank you to Lina Castro, department director, Sister Denise Mollica, IHM, Maeve Touhey ‘23, (fashion group president), and our sponsors for putting together such a success. We can not thank you enough for allowing us to share and create memories here at Immaculata through our fashion department. We look forward to the years to come.
