BY: Corliss Gilmer
Before applying to Stevenson University’s fashion design program, I wasn’t aware of all of the great opportunities that were available. One of the biggest opportunities was being able to showcase a garment for Nolcha Shows (http://www.nolchashows.com) at New York Fashion Week.
Each year, we are presented with this opportunity – so don’t be discouraged if you aren’t able to showcase your freshmen or sophomore year. You’ll still have time. I took advantage of this opportunity my sophomore year. I honestly didn’t feel like I was ready, but I went for it! The staff helped every step of the way and pushed me to my best ability and beyond.
Through all of the sleepless nights, dedication, and 3 judging rounds, I was chosen as one of the students to showcase at New York Fashion Week. A few weeks after acceptance, I was off to New York for a fitting to find a model. And then within a few days, it was showtime! The venue was filled with mainly industry professionals, so photographs of my garment were posted all over blogs and online magazines! A tall photograph of my design is also displayed in the halls of SU in the fashion design department.
My garment is still one of my best designs yet! I’m so proud I took advantage of this opportunity, because it has developed me into the designer that I am today.