On May 31st, Charlotte Seen kicked off the “Sustainable Style Fashion Show”. The show, held at the Johnson C. Smith University, was a compilation of eleven designers who’s creativity were really put to the test. For this show, each designer could only use UPcycled pieces from Goodwill for their designs. At the end of the show, the audience was able to vote for their favorite designer. The reasoning for this challenge was because of the “waste problem” that the fashion industry is known for according to a special guest speaker, David L. Cook. Do not confuse him for David Cook, American Idol winner. David L. Cook is an award winning song writer, having written over 2,500 songs and won multiple Grammy and Emmy awards. David expressed “three-fifths of landfills are made up of thrown out clothing materials after or within a year of being produced.” That figure is a bit mind boggling in my opinion.
The show itself was outstanding -as usual! But had I not known before, I would never have guessed that any of these designs were UPcycled pieces. It was fascinating to see. The show kicked off with Berhan Nebioglu and three models dressed to represent old school Hollywood glamour and paying homage to theater. Their looks were completed in all black combined with pinstripes, wide brimmed hats, head pieces, gloves, and pearls. She is such a lovely person that always amazes me! Berhan is extremely classy and very, very kind!
Trains were a huge theme of the evening! They were prevalent in many of the collections this night, as were head pieces. There was a wide range of head pieces and hats -all of which I loved. They added such character to the ensemble. I think I liked it most because it reminded me of old Hollywood glamour. I mentioned it before and I loved that many of the designers kept within the nights theme.
Some of my favorites include Bantam by Zersten, which was edgier and included lots of checkered and camo prints. Fiona Rose I enjoyed a lot as well. I have seen her walk the run way a few times but this was the first time as a designer and it was impressive! Her collection had a whimsical feel to it, almost as though Taylor Swift’s “Romeo and Juliet” had manifested itself into fashion. I loved two pieces very much. One, a men’s dress shirt restyled as a strapless dress. Secondly, a dress Fiona wore herself which had the most beautifully, dramatic lace sleeves I’ve ever seen.
Other highlights included Madi Jenkins, one of the youngest designers. She showcased a belted skirt I loved! And of course Humble Connor! All of her pieces were shades of black. I loved every part of it though! From the textures, and loads of drama with hair and make up, not to mention the live drums blaring, it was phenomenal!
Such a great night, and at the end of it,all three designers ended up winning; Humble Connor, Zerstan, and MoJazz Collection. All three rightfully deserved the winning!
Written by Reagan Vanderhill | Photography by Tameka Alicea
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