Blackout Fashionshow
For the Club Renaissance-themed fashion show hosted by SoulTV at UMass Amherst, I was tasked with styling a section that celebrated Black creativity, queer fashion, and futuristic aesthetics. Working within the provided guidelines, I had full creative control to interpret the theme, incorporating metallics, gold, black, and bling to curate bold and expressive looks. Drawing inspiration from diverse elements of Black culture and the themes of Beyoncé’s Club Renaissance album, I selected and styled pieces that authentically reflected the vibrancy and innovation of the theme.
Inspiration
I drew inspiration from from what was the theme of my section of the show. Beyoncé’s Renaissance album is a celebration of dance, house, and disco music, paying homage to Black queer culture and its profound influence on these genres. The album’s theme revolves around freedom, joy, and self-expression, creating a vibrant, escapist experience. Its vibe is bold, futuristic, and empowering, blending groovy beats, soulful vocals, and innovative production that evokes the energy of a euphoric, inclusive club atmosphere.
Next I sourced some collages and photos of what club Renaissance and its themes looked to me but in the form of outfits and action. Clubbing, dancing, loving posing, and glowing.
Talent Prep
I was assigned a total of 10 models—5 female and 5 male. To ensure each model’s outfit fit perfectly, I began by collecting detailed information about their height and clothing sizes. I organized this data in a comprehensive spreadsheet, creating individual tables for each model to track their specific needs. The spreadsheet included key details such as model names, Instagram handles, heights, sizes for tops, bottoms, and shoes, as well as any accessories required to complete their looks. This system allowed me to efficiently source and coordinate the pieces for each outfit.
Sourcing
I sourced clothing through various avenues, primarily focusing on secondhand outlets such as thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay. This approach allowed me to economically find pieces that were both unique and the perfect fit for each model’s size. Additionally, I encouraged models to incorporate items and accessories from their own wardrobes. This not only gave them creative freedom to infuse their personal style but also ensured the pieces aligned with the overall theme of our line.
The Show
After completing the logistical and sourcing work, I showcased my styling abilities and participated in my first fashion show. The models were supportive and trusted my vision, making the experience rewarding.
A key challenge was interpreting the themes of Black creativity, queer fashion, and Renaissance in ways I didn’t fully identify with. With guidance from those more familiar with these frameworks, I navigated the process successfully and brought the vision to life.
Reflecting on the final looks, I feel I could have pushed boundaries further, incorporating more flair, chrome, and bold statement pieces to better match the tone of the album.
