IMAGINE the Possiblity
To be honest, when I headed to my first IMAGINE fashion show by the International Academy of Design & Technology, I was skeptical of the show’s production value. I had had heard good things, but, after all, it’s produced entirely by…students? In short, the show was quite possibly the year’s best. In fact, these students could teach the pros a thing or two about how to create an energetic, quality runway show that gets the audience genuinely excited about the future of Chicago fashion.
Immediately upon walking in, the Grand Hall of Union Station imposed a striking impression. Alit with spotlights, the architecture’s towering columns and marble floors transformed the commuter destination into a dramatic, sexy event space. The reception area housed a square-shaped bar and a Michelle Tan installation. After staring up at Michelle’s designs and duly noting some future purchases, I made my way past the partition and to the runway.
To open the show, NBC’s Ginger Zee—donning a dress by a student presenter—took the stage. She elaborated on how the proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House and provided more information on Michelle, a successful IADT graduate as well as the night’s honorary designer. After the introductions, Shiny Toy Guns provided a three-song musical performance that started with “Major Tom” from the Lincoln MKZ commercial. It was quite a heart-pumping warm-up.
When the song commenced, a screen came down and hid the band from sight as the first model appeared. On either side of the stage were two large projection screens that displayed each of the 13 design themes, including “Checks and Balances,” “Woodstock,” “Champaign Toast,” and “Culture Couture.” Above the runway, the 32 student designers’ names appeared on a LED-like sign as their creations hit the stage. The range of their aesthetics was accentuated by the various themes, which streamlined the extensive range of styles into one cohesive show.
Of the many, many womenswear and some menswear I saw, my favorites were the “Street” and “Faux Effect” themes. The Street looks were the most daring and youthful. The bandeau tops, sequin suspenders, short hems, star-pattered jeans, and black and gold bolero were all interesting and fresh takes on streetwear. The Faux Effect theme closed the show in a sensory finale that was both dynamic and breathtaking. The Edward Sissorhands-ish music was combined with snow-like confetti that rained on the audience. The looks included faux fur coats, shawls and tops that the models presented at a pace much slower than the preceding looks. From where I was sitting, the fake fur appeared as soft and luxurious as the real thing.
As these young fashion designers move into their careers, we look forward to seeing how they add to the industry, whether that be in Chicago, New York, LA or beyond. Though this economy may be an intimidating and challenging front to face, we saw some talent that’s destined for big things.
By Meghan Turner
Photography by Scott Kallstrand
Tags: Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Runway Shows, Ginger Zee, IADT, IMAGINE Fashion Show, International Academy of Design and Technology, Michelle Tan
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April 21, 2010 | No Comments
