The Missouri State University Fashion Merchandising and Design Program’s annual fashion show “Imagine” was held May 9 at the Ramada Oasis Convention Center with over 1,000 guests in attendance. This year’s fashion show showcased the largest class of designers since the program began in 1998. The fashion show previewed over 90 original designs from sophomore and junior design students. The highlight of the event was the showcasing of 24 fashion design majors’ senior collections. Each collection consisted of three to five pieces that emphasized individual strengths and the directions the designers desired to pursue in the future. “We had 140 models who walked the runway modeling original designs and senior collections. I was very proud of the merchandising students who produced this year’s show, they did a outstanding job. The designers did a terrific job designing their collections and the designs looked wonderful on stage,” said Jenifer Roberts, Assistant Professor, FID. Before the students’ designs reached the runway, their garments were critiqued by a Jury of Selection held on April 25 and 26. Twelve fashion industry guests judged the garments and selected those to be shown on the runway. The guests included three alumni: Allyson Thornton from Target Corporate headquarters, Jessica Sturman from Park Central Westin New York City, and Brandy Lackey from Wal-Mart Corporate headquarters.

The event was sponsored by Fashion Show Production students who raised over $9,000. Expenses range from the rental of the Oasis Facility, lighting, music, programs, and staging. The students had fund raisers at Panera Bread, garage sales, and also raised money through t-shirt and ticket sales. All profits from this year’s show will benefit the Missouri State University Fashion Merchandising and Design Scholarship Fund.