Cal Poly FITS and SFC Host Third Annual Fashion Show: A Spectacular Showcase of Student Talent

San Luis Obispo, CA – The Fashion Industry and Textile Students (FITS) club at California Polytechnic State University, in collaboration with the Student Fashion Coalition (SFC), successfully hosted their third annual fashion show on May 28, 2024. The event, held at the university’s Performing Arts Center, showcased the innovative designs and talents of students from various disciplines within the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences.

The theme of this year’s fashion show, “Sustainable Chic,” highlighted the importance of eco-friendly practices in the fashion industry. Student designers were tasked with creating garments that not only demonstrated their creativity and technical skills but also incorporated sustainable materials and practices. The result was a stunning array of outfits that blended aesthetics with environmental consciousness.

The evening began with a lively cocktail hour, where attendees had the opportunity to mingle and view a pre-show exhibition of fashion sketches and fabric swatches. This was followed by the main event, which featured a runway show with over 50 unique designs. Models, also students from Cal Poly, strutted down the catwalk, showcasing a variety of styles ranging from casual wear to avant-garde creations.

Judges for the event included notable figures in the fashion industry, such as eco-fashion designer Stella McCartney, renowned stylist Rachel Zoe, and Cal Poly alumna and sustainable fashion advocate, Amy Smith. They were tasked with evaluating the designs based on creativity, sustainability, and overall presentation. Awards were given in several categories, including Best Sustainable Design, Most Innovative Use of Materials, and Audience Favorite.

This year’s Best Sustainable Design award went to senior fashion design student, Maria Gonzalez, for her stunning evening gown made entirely from recycled ocean plastics and organic cotton. The Most Innovative Use of Materials award was claimed by junior Mark Thompson, who created a casual yet chic ensemble using fabric scraps and natural dyes. The Audience Favorite, voted on by the attendees, was sophomore Emily Chang, whose colorful, upcycled denim collection received a standing ovation.

In addition to the fashion show, the event included a silent auction, featuring donated items from local businesses and handmade crafts from the students. Proceeds from the auction and ticket sales were donated to the Sustainable Fashion Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable practices in the fashion industry.

The annual fashion show has become a much-anticipated event at Cal Poly, providing a platform for students to showcase their talents and engage with industry professionals. It also underscores the university’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. “This event is a testament to the creativity and dedication of our students,” said Dr. Jane Foster, faculty advisor for the FITS club. “They have not only demonstrated their design skills but also their commitment to making a positive impact on the world through sustainable fashion.”

As the evening came to a close, attendees left with a renewed appreciation for sustainable fashion and the impressive capabilities of Cal Poly’s students. The success of this year’s show promises even greater things for the future, as the FITS and SFC clubs continue to inspire and nurture the next generation of fashion industry leaders.