Western Michigan University’s Merchandising Opportunities and Design Association (MODA) hosted their annual fall fashion show Oct. 24 in the Student Center ballroom.
This year’s theme was “Written in the Stars” and it aimed to convey an astrological theme.
“It’s kind of just overviewing the celestial vibe that we’re trying to bring,” said MODA President Laura Argentati. “Astrology is a big part of this show, and I kind of took that with my designs. I’m a Capricorn, so I tried to embody the meaning of my star sign into my outfits.”
Jaiysa Sepulveda, a model and stylist in MODA, enjoyed getting to prepare for the show with her fellow models.
“I love getting ready with everybody and getting to see everyone’s makeup and looks,” Sepulveda said. “My favorite part is walking on the runway, and then post-production when I get to see my photos. It’s really exciting.”
For many, MODA and their fashion shows allow designers, stylists and models to showcase their skills and talents.
“It’s always chaotic before the show happens, but it is so rewarding to feel like your line is being seen by everyone and all of my clothes are being put out on a runway,” said Ella Voeks, a model and stylist in MODA. “It’s really cool just to get that recognition for our hard work.”
Alexandra Garza, MODA’s head of marketing and public relations, enjoyed getting to see the results of everyone’s work.
“Working together, getting the show together and then getting to see everyone’s accomplishments and how great the show ends up being feels really good,” Garza said.
She continued: “Getting to see your hard work pay off and getting to make new connections at the same time feels great.”
During intermission, WMU dance group The Heels performed a routine choreographed by Ashley Boyd, president of The Heels.
“It’s a quick turnaround but it’s been very fulfilling,” Boyd said. “My choreography book that I got five years ago has the words ‘written in the stars’ in it, so when I was asked to choreograph something for the show, it was literally written in the stars that we be a part of the show, so my experience has been really awesome.”
Vice President of MODA Kannon Lynch recommends that WMU students join MODA because of the learning opportunities it offers.
“MODA has given me a ton of opportunities for not just creative outlets,” Lynch said. “I’m a music major not even involved in fashion whatsoever when it comes to academic work, but I’ve designed a line every single spring show and it’s been absolutely amazing.”
MODA will host another fashion show in the spring semester.
For more information and to stay up to date with MODA, visit their instagram page, @wmumoda.
