Black Women's Network gearing up for 2nd annual fashion show

The second annual Black Women's Network Fashion Show, an evening of entertainment, fashions and fun, is planned at Emporia State University beginning at 7 p.m. on March 10.

"The ultimate purpose of our fashion show is to showcase the beauty and talent that we all have in us," said fashion show coordinator Ashley Jones, a sophomore marketing and communications major. "Some of our models are so shy when they try out, but by the time the show starts, they have broken out of their shell and are showing who they really are."

Attendees can expect to see the latest, hottest fashions, live music, dance and to have a lot of fun.

Students and staff will strut their stuff on the runway, modeling styles representing various themes in apparel. The genres for the evening will be leather and fur, stripes, backless, a tribute to the troops and Classic Couture.

Classic Couture, a women's boutique, is donating clothes for the models to wear.

The theme for this year's fashion show is "Natural Beauty.Look Around.

"We want the participants to gain confidence and self-worth," Jones said. "As often portrayed on television and magazines, you don't have to be a size 3 to be beautiful.

"We chose this theme because we wanted to let people know you don't have to travel around the world to enjoy the beauties of the earth, they are right by you every second," Jones said. "We like to show off people of all shapes, sizes, sexes and races."

Another category for the evening is "Raw Materials." Contestants will design and make an outfit using raw materials, such as garbage bags, duck tape, aluminum foil and paper clips.

"We promote being creative and innovative," said fashion show co-coordinator Kelly Henson, a senior marketing major. "From the clothing, hair and makeup to the very last detail, this will be a high-quality, sophisticated performance."

"I am really excited," said Ari Sargent, sophomore elementary education major and a model in the fashion show. "We have worked really hard, practicing every week. It is going to be a wonderful and fun showcase of fashions."

Last Updated July 2, 2007>