USC’s Fashion Board hosts annual runway show at 701 Whaley
701 Whaley entertained an evening full of fabulous fashion last night for USC Fashion Board’s 2013 Student Designer Showcase, an annual event in the university’s Fashion Week.
Before the show began, student designers were spread out around tables, displaying their works for sale. Fashionable finds included first-year retailing student Gabriela Herstik’s fairy-like flower headbands, non-profit organization Clothed in Hope’s Zambian bracelets and third-year retailing student Laura Grove’s handmade jewelry with a twist of color and sparkle.
Well-dressed men and women explored tables, sipping bright pink Shirley Temples. From 5-inch wedges to Jack Rogers sandals, fashionable footwear brightened up an otherwise grungy gray interior. The statement dresses and outfits were enough to put the Nike shorts trend to shame.
One room over, the runway waited, lined with distinguished onlookers and leading to a table of judges. Otis Taylor, The State newspaper’s art, culture and entertainment reporter,; Amy Flurry, contributing editor to InStyle and Lucky magazines; and L.V. Granger, a USC graduate and owner of Circa 1332 and Granger-Owings, judged the event.
Icona Pop’s “I Love It” blasted over the speakers as the first models appeared.
Third-year exercise science student Amber Engel showed her “Harbor Flag” collection, which she called “a little bit Southern, classic and sexy.” Chevron and nautical-inspired prints popped on the runway.
Third-year retailing student Taylor Diggs debuted a jewelry collection.
“If you’re going to wear jewelry, you should make a statement with it,” Diggs said of her bright-colored beads mixed with metallics.
Retailing student Paul Williams presented a menswear collection, highlighting elegant vests and ascots.
“I went for something that stood out and was not just generic,” Williams said of his ornate floral style.
Third-year retailing student Molly NcNutt introduced another menswear collection with a fun, urban feel.
“My guy lives in the city and is a businessman but still wants that young, fresh, hip vibe,” NcNutt said.
Her trendy, short-sleeved button-ups gave off an Urban Outfitters/Pac Sun feel.
Second-year business Michael Cottingham displayed his line, inspired by his great-grandmother. It mixed modern florals with vintage lavishness.
“My collection is a little bit of the 1920s, youth, exuberance and extravagance,” Cottingham said.
Justin Timberlake’s “Suit and Tie” played as the judges deliberated and onlookers chatted about their favorite looks of the night. Williams took home the prize, and his collection will be featured Thursday in USC’s Finale Showcase along with looks from Columbia’s top boutiques.
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