Lynn University's annual fashion showcase, held in February, was not just a runway event but a vibrant tapestry of creativity, sustainability and industry innovation. This year's showcase took center stage with the theme of sustainability and commitment to reducing waste, conserving resources and redefining fashion through responsible practices.
"Fashion sustainability is important because it's about preserving our planet for future generations," said sophomore student Makiyah Isles. "Through initiatives like the Lynn Fashion Showcase, we can inspire others to make more mindful choices in their fashion consumption."
Sustainable collaboration
The collaborative efforts of students, alumni and faculty resulted in a showcase that dazzled the audience and sparked conversations about the future of fashion. The theme of sustainability was integrated into every aspect of the showcase, echoing Lynn's commitment to global initiatives like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From the selection of materials to the production process, every decision was guided by responsible consumption and production principles and industry innovation. Designers like Amanda Perna, known for her sustainable sportswear and cocktail attire, led the charge in showcasing how style and sustainability can seamlessly intertwine.
"Fashion sustainability is not just a trend. It's a movement that will only gain more traction as we prioritize responsible consumption," said Perna. "Lynn's Fashion Showcase exemplifies this shift towards eco-consciousness in the industry."
Every look that graced the runway was meticulously crafted to raise awareness about the pressing need to repurpose post-consumer textiles. With the current recycling rate of repurposed textiles standing at a mere one percent, the fashion community understands the urgency to make significant strides toward a more sustainable future.
"The theme of this year's fashion showcase was deeply rooted in Lynn's commitment to social impact," said Dr. Katrina Carter-Tellison, vice president for Academic Affairs. "By actively engaging with the Boca Raton community and beyond, Lynn aims to foster positive societal change in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Lynn Fashion Showcase helped shed light on critical issues within the fashion industry, particularly textile waste."
Students from Lynn, along with collaborators from Miami Dade College and the Miami Fashion Institute, demonstrated their creativity by transforming discarded textiles into wearable art. Lisa Benedict, professor of fashion and retail at Lynn, and her students designed a dress made entirely of paper bags for the event.
"I loved that the dress we worked so hard on stood at the entry of the showcase; it is truly amazing that fashion can be both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible," said Benedict.
Over 260 students from various academic disciplines came together to bring the show to life, highlighting the university's commitment to providing practical, hands-on learning experiences.
"The event itself was a testament to the power of collaboration and multifaceted teamwork," said first-year student Peter Van Beuren. "From design conception to runway presentation, we were involved in every step of the process, gaining invaluable skills and insights along the way."
A memorable night
The venue, the Eugene M. and Christine E. Lynn Library, was modeled into a fashion haven, with every detail carefully curated to underscore sustainability.
Guests were treated to a showcase of innovative designs throughout the night. Upon entering, they were greeted by a meticulously crafted entranceway, adorned with eco-friendly decorations that set the tone for the evening. The smallest details were thoughtfully considered, including the plates and silverware used at the event, all made from sustainable materials, demonstrating a holistic approach to responsible consumption.
Inside the entranceway, four life-sized mannequins stood prominently, each displaying a unique creation that spoke volumes about the designers' commitment to sustainability. The first dress, elegantly draped on a mannequin, was Lisa Benedict's repurposed paper bag dress, which required over 82 hours of manual labor and 125 paper bags. The second dress, a testament to ingenuity, was loaned to the university by Kailey Schmidt and was crafted from 170 recycled Target bags.
Moving along the entranceway, another striking dress caught the eye, a testament to Amanda Perna's dedication to eco-friendly fashion utilizing recycled and sustainable materials. Finally, the fourth dress, created by Ana Maria Siliquini, academic coach at Lynn, showcased a unique flair as it was intricately designed using only donated ties.
The creativity extended beyond the catwalk—designed as a collage of recycled fabric, materials and print covered with clear plexiglass. Designers like Perna, renowned for her maximalist style with minimal waste, exemplified how recycled fabrics can be transformed into vibrant, wearable art. Additionally, Miami Fashion Institute alumni and students also captivated the audience with ready-to-wear pieces crafted from towels donated by the St. Regis Hotel in Bal Harbour. Brands like Aquamala Swimwear and Change of Scenery redefined swim and resort wear, while Sara Mique's signature sequins sportswear collection added a touch of glamour to the narrative.
As the fashion industry evolves, events like Lynn's Fashion Showcase serve as beacons of inspiration and change. Looking ahead, the legacy of this showcase will continue to inspire future generations of designers, encouraging them to push the boundaries of innovation while keeping the planet's well-being at the forefront of their creations.
"Our aim was not only to dazzle with style but also to demonstrate the transformative power of eco-conscious practices," said Cesar Santalo, dean of the College of Communication and Design and creative director for Lynn's Fashion Showcase. "From upcycled textiles to innovative production techniques, this showcase proves that fashion can be a force for positive change, inspiring us all to rethink our approach to design and consumption."
To learn more about the 2024 fashion showcase and Lynn's commitment to sustainable practices, visit lynn.edu/lynn-fashion-showcase.
