Spring Break
Show celebrates Black History
Jackie Essis
Issue date: 2/13/09 Section: Arts & Entertainment
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Throughout the entire show, DJ Cashmere spun a mix of hip-hop, R&B and soul music. The fuse of upbeat music genres encouraged the crowd to dance throughout a significant part of the show. As the DJ worked the crowd with his talents, the two-energetic hosts acquainted the audience's attention to the performance and the fashion show. Amazing acts included intuitive poet Joshua Bennett, brilliant Nu Story, Swagged Out including Kidd Fresh and Beano, and fierce skating duet 22 Family.
The 21-year-old rap phenomenon, Mr. Phz-sicks, opened the event. Drexel's Black History Month Fashion Show was set up similarly to an upscale talent show. The clothes highlighted in the show were urban spring wear, as well as costumes resembling couture wear. Clothes from designers RM67, Happy Couture by Nyeta Allen, Retrochic by Pietra, Scripted Designs by Shay, and Teranchula, as well as BS Shirts by Brandon Schell were all featured in the show. The introduction section called "My Style" highlighted colors such as purple and hot pinks. The jewelry showcased in the collection was based on large gold accents. Featured accessories included large sunglasses and belts that defined the models waists.
The show was choreographed and performed similar to an articulated dance. Models of all shapes, sizes, and ethnicities wore similar garments depicting personal style.
Another section of the show called "Time for a Change," illustrated the various hardships in life. Casually dressed models carried black umbrellas with words of turmoil written on them. Words such as racism, violence, war, disease, imprisonment, and poverty floated onstage, and through the audience. The clothes worn during this segment had many logos on them and included effortless jeans and t-shirt ensembles.
During this segment poet Bennett, took the floor with a passionate analysis at what it is like to be African American. His reverent poem declared that you should not have to hide who you are in a world of distrust. He gave similarities to historical events that many people cannot overcome in modern society.
A very clever portion called "Breaking Through the Stereotypes," promoted the idea that well respected African- American males cannot be viewed highly in society. Male models strutted around the stage in suits, and then left the stage only returning with stereotypical props in hand. The models held items such as handcuffs, loads of cash, and even something as juvenile as a basketball.
During intermission, the skate group 22 Family performed. The group did break-dance-like moves to hip-hop on skates.
Overall, Drexel's 12th Annual Black History Month Fashion Show was inspiring, creative, and energetic. DJ Cashmere as well as all the thrilling performers empowered the animated audience throughout the show. The "Epiphany of Me" theme encompassed a wide range of perspectives and illustrated that a fashion show was a great way to celebrate Black History Month.
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