Fashion show incorporates Alice in Wonderland characters, clips to compel audience
Falling down the rabbit hole has never looked so good.
The 13th annual Organization for Black Unity Fashion Show took place at Plachta Auditorium in Warriner Hall on Saturday. OBU President Jasmine Valentine directed the Royal Madness-themed show, following the "Alice in Wonderland" storyline.
“Our previous president thought of the 'Alice in Wonderland' theme, and I pitched the idea that it would be recognized as 'Royal Madness.' That created the perfect combination for fashion and storyline to be presented,” the Northville junior said. “Throughout all the trials and tribulations we went through, I was glad that we were able to put on an event that was fashionable, fun and enjoyable.”
Clips from the Alice in Wonderland movie were projected at the beginning of the event and after intermission. The show incorporated seven major scenes from the film: Off with Her Head, Enchanted Garden, Define Unusual, Tea Party, The Recruitment, To Victory and Finding Yourself.
Audience members weren't expecting the original idea and incorporation of the theme. Westland freshman Waltkita Montgomery was one audience member who was surprised by the show.
“I was expecting a traditional runway fashion show," Montgomery said. "This show was very theatrical. I was shocked at first, then a little confused, but it all came together in the end. I especially liked the short dresses, and the sheer tops stood out to me.”
The event showed off apparel from nearby Mount Pleasant stores including TJ Maxx, Target and others.
Auditions were held in October, and there was an increase in the amount of new models auditioning from previous years. OBU ultimately chose 28 models.
Detroit junior Michael Belton was a first-year model who played the role of the White Rabbit.
“A bunch of people asked me to try out for the show, and I agreed,” Belton said. "I originally tried out for the Rabbit and Mad Hatter roles, mainly because I thought my personality fit the part.”
Among the fresh looks, there were many new faces in the crowd that filled the auditorium.
Manistee junior Lauren Henry attended her first OBU fashion show Saturday night.
“I have attended many other types of fashion shows before, but never this one,” Henry said. “I love fashion; it is an art. It was interesting to see the different styles"
