Ashley Lewis

How does the fashion show enable you to express yourself artistically?

Fashion is a statement above all things. It allows you to express yourself in unimaginable ways. You will be amazed by how people respond to you just on the basis of how you dress. Beyond clothes, there is the nonverbal aspect of modeling that I love. You body movements are very crucial. You facial expressions are very crucial. Done right, you can express any mood you deem necessary.

What goes on behind the scenes?

Behind the scenes of the fashion show, the pace is very fast. There are people there just to help you change, people who make sure that tags are not showing, makeup artists are walking around touching up make-up. Before the show even begins there is a team there organizing outfits for each model, making sure that each item is accounted for. Behind the scenes there is sometimes complete madness, the trick is to not let it show on the runway.

Who designs the set? Is there a theme for the set?

The set was designed by Dominique Lee, who is on the MYSTIC, which is the multicultural club located in Alyce Lloyd. The runway was different this year than from last year. It was made like a "Y", instead of a straight line.

Are there males and females involved in the show?

There are males and females in the show. All of them of great variety. Ranging from different races to different sizes to different personalities. The purpose of Bronze Elegance is to celebrate multiculturalism on campus.

Who designs the clothes?

The clothes are from stores around the campus. This year our sponsor were Adorn Me, Anna Banana, Banana Republic, Beanie Junie, Loehmanns, TJ Maxx, GAP, Jilada designs, just to name a few. There was also a featured special designer.

What types of clothing are being represented in the show?

Mod, urban, business, preppy, lingerie, club wear, prom, cocktail, wedding, and swimsuits. The final scene was of all the models expressing themselves.

How do you combine the art of theatre and acting into your performance on stage?

Theatre includes speaking but most importantly non-verbal movements as mentioned before. People learn more about you through your actions than by your words. On the runway people can tell when you lack confidence. Non-verbal action is what separates okay models from great models. Can you pull it off? When you walk on stage does the audience feel what you want them to feel? If the answer is yes to both of theses questions then you can control the audience. If you want them to think you are sexy, and your actions show it, the audience will believe it.

Why do you think the art of fashion is so appealing to so many people?

Fashion is a way for people to express themselves without speaking. Expression of personality is an art, a form of art that's exposed to everyone who sees you, or doesn't. Fashion is a way to gain respect without talking, or bragging. Fashion is risky, and those who take that risk are considered innovators, and pioneers. Some might do it for the fame, some might do it for their own self-confidence, others for respect and recognition.

How does MYSTIC integrate cohesiveness among the students who are involved in the show?

They bring together a collection, consisting of fifty or more students, of diversity from a large community. The first practices that we have are all of us together just having loads of fun, being silly. Then on some scenes you have partners with whom you have to interact. After six months of practices, you start to build relationships with people you never thought you would. When the show comes, everyone is supportive of one another, it's almost like a family created by one fashion show.

Do you know of any other fashion shows around campus?

There is another major fashion show on campus called NOIR. I don't know much about it, except that there are major differences between the Bronze Elegance and NOIR. Bronze Elegance is fashion with fun, and great energy while NOIR is serious.

Where do the proceeds from your show go?

There are no proceeds. It takes a certain amount to put the show on, and that amount is paid for by the ticket sales. Things just break even.

How do you balance being a part of the fashion show with your school work?

The fashion show does take up a lot of your time; however, time management is the only way to balance extra curricular activities and school work. I plan out my time for writing papers, studying, and fashion.

Why do you think art is embedded in so many cultures?

Fashion is a great way to express: where you are from, the pain and happiness of ones life, the creativeness of some individuals, the traditions of a culture. Most importantly it is a way to express you, a way for you to be you, and let everyone see.