On an April evening, a stream of 70 models strutted down the runway at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, wearing designs from 40 emerging fashion designers. Structured outfits in denim and wool stood gave way to flowing dresses crafted from layers of lace. Soft pinks and ivory yielded to bright blues and bold reds. Then came the finale: a sweeping feathered gown followed by a sculptural suit in head-to-toe white that grabbed the audience’s attention.
The VCUarts Fashion Event is a pinnacle for students in both the fashion design and fashion merchandising programs. This year’s theme, Synergy, put a spotlight on their interconnected efforts to bring the dazzling display to life.
“Synergy is what the design and merchandising tracks strive to create, whether it is in coursework, planning the curriculum, or just the overall atmosphere in the department,” said Kim Guthrie, chair of the Department of Fashion Design and Merchandising. “This event truly helps them understand the importance of professionalism and collaboration.”
Senior Kalani Coleman, a merchandising student, served as the show’s front-of-house director. She oversaw ticketing, managed seating for VIP guests and press, and resolved guest issues—all while supporting coordination across the event planning team.
“Every project involves multiple creative and business perspectives working together,” she said. “It gives students hands-on experience in communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and executing a shared vision in a professional setting.
The event comprised two showings: a special viewing for 250 industry sponsors and other supporters, and a later presentation for more than 500 family, friends, and community members.
Senior Madeline Hanlon, a merchandising major, said the show offered a chance for attendees to see the emerging talent and fresh perspectives that reflect the future of the industry.
“Many of the collections explored individuality, storytelling, sustainability, and emotional connection, which are all becoming increasingly important in fashion today,” Hanlon said. “Because each student brought their own vision and background into their work, the show felt innovative and personal rather than trend-driven in a traditional sense.”
The Fashion Event is more than a showcase. For students preparing to graduate and launch careers in fashion, the planning and preparation offers critical real-world experience.
Senior Ainsley Parker, who studied fashion design, said the event left her feeling more prepared for the fast pace of the fashion industry.
“There can be last-minute changes and fittings,” she said. “And we practice professionalism working with the students in the event planning class, the dressers, and the models. [We have to] trust them with our pieces.”
Coleman added that the collaborative nature of the show also created opportunities for ideas to sharpen and confidence to grow. This synergy was particularly on display in the event’s final moments, when the models flooded the runway in a dramatic reveal of the entire collection of student work.
“It represented true collaboration and showed what we as a collective can accomplish when we come together,” she said. “It reflected the idea that we are strongest when we merge our visions, creativity, and individual strengths into one shared experience.”
