University apparel design students showcased their work at the inaugural Oneofakind Baton Rouge Fashion Show this Saturday, joining the ranks of other designers from across the South.
The University’s Textiles, Apparel and Merchandising program selected six undergraduates and recent alumni to showcase their work at the fashion show.
“It’s an honor being picked by a panel of professors to show my garment,” said apparel design senior Brigid Horlander.
Horlander said nature and Oscar De La Renta inspired her when she was creating her garment, a white and pink gown that flowed elegantly as the model walked.
“It’s really an exciting time to be at the fashion show because this is one of the first times I showed a garment I made. … It’s awesome to get the opportunity to do this,” said apparel design junior Katherine Bonnecaze.
Audrey Hepburn and other classic style icons inspired Bonnecaze to create her garment. She took the elegance and class Hepburn symbolized and
transformed it into a modern evening gown. Bonnecaze’s gown was black and pink with an accent belt.
Horlander said she feels that being able to have her work displayed in this fashion week, and other opportunities like going to Europe, has been a benefit of being a part of the apparel design program.
“LSU has allowed me to have many opportunities to grow and even to go to Europe. … I’m able to use a lot of the resources like the alumni to help me with my craft,” Horlander said.
Recent alumna Ella Rose also showcased her garments, along with two other recent graduates. Excitement was in the air for many of the designers who felt that they wouldn’t be where they were if it weren’t for the design program.
And the University’s presence was not only showcased by the work of the designers but also by the models that wore their artistry.
“[I’m] excited and ready to have fun. … We’ve been working for three weeks to get ready to showcase these excellent LSU designers” said mass communication sophomore Bianca Webb, one of the models in the fashion show.
Not only was this the first time for some designers to showcase their garments but this was also the case for some models who were on the runway.
The University community played an impactful role in the first OBRFW, and the host of the night, former University student Chenese Lewis, felt the same way. She moved to Los Angeles where she has been acting and has made appearances on “E!News,” “Extra” and “The Insider.”
“Baton Rouge has changed so much. … I’m excited to host the fashion show in my hometown,” Lewis said. “The LSU designers were fabulous, and I’m glad that they have a platform like this to showcase their work to the city.”