Cullman’s Alexandria (Allie) Gipson, right, at Fashion for Life, the University of Alabama College of Human Environmental Sciences' annual fashion show (courtesy of the University of Alabama)
TUSCALOOSA – Ten University of Alabama students' designs hit the runway in November as part of Fashion for Life, the College of Human Environmental Sciences' annual fashion show. Among the students whose designs were featured was Alexandria Gipson, of Cullman.
"The Fashion for Life runway event is a culminating experience for our apparel design students," said Brian Taylor, instructor of advanced apparel design. "It is an opportunity for the students to discover how fashion and their creativity can give back to the community through their chosen charity."
This year's event benefits the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. ADAA is an international nonprofit membership organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment and cure of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and co- occurring disorders through education, practice and research.
Designers started researching trends, finding inspiration, sketching and buying fabrics over the summer. On the first day of class this fall, advanced apparel design students began creating their collections by making a garment every couple of weeks.
Collections are based on each student's design philosophy and chosen target market. This year's show included evening, career, casual and lounge wear. Following the event, guests were able to speak with the designers about their collections.
"I'm extremely proud of the hard work and dedication these 10 design students have shown this year," Taylor said. "They each have a unique sense of style and point of view. The collection development process and fashion show experiences mimic what they will encounter once entering the apparel industry."
