Reimagined on the Runway
Photo by Grace DeSimone
On Saturday night Syracuse University's Fashion & Design Society put on their fall fashion show following the theme; American Dream Reimagined.
“It is a beautiful time to celebrate how cross-cultural this country is, while also critiquing its flaws in the modern day,” said FADs co-creative director Claire McConnell when asked about the importance of showcasing what the American dream means in today's climate.
The concept has been carried out throughout the fall semester, with the society producing six themed photoshoots each exploring different aspects of what the American dream means. The photoshoots covered ideas such as a contemporary take on the idea of a traditional American housewife, to an homage to Native Americans, which collaborated with SU students who identified as Indigenous. The shoots aimed to inspire designers' understanding on how they can apply their own story to the final runway and to overall build up hype for the upcoming show.
Last night the culmination of the American dream successfully came together on stage, where a celebration of American cross-culture was indeed held.
A total of 50+ models walked, all wearing original pieces designed by FADs members. Many looks were crafted from common fabrics such as leather and denim, which are associated with the traditional idea of “Americana fashion”. However designers explored further into the realm of creativity by incorporating newspapers, documents, food wrappers, welded metals and even 100 dollar bills into the clothing.
Walking on the runway were designs inspired by a collection of American icons such as Lady Liberty, Smokey the Bear and Marilyn Monroe, representing the versatility of symbols in American pop culture. Different eras in American history were also honored, from 90s streetwear to the aesthetics of 19th century American gothic.
The most important take away from this show was that this is not just about America. Just like how this production was the labor of many different moving pieces, America is the product of many different cultures and people.
That was successfully shown in the collaboration of ideas, cultures, and most importantly art on stage. From the detailed makeup, red white and blue strobe lighting, to the powerful music that played as the models walked, which was inspired by protest playlists, FADs united many different passions and creative outlets. The show brought a voice to not only artists but to young Americans, all with something to say through the art of fashion.
“That's why putting on this show means so much, because anyone in the audience can come away with a different meaning of what the American dream means to them individually, which I think is especially beautiful.” said president Jada Williams.
So Jerks, what does the American dream mean to you?