Design:
The fashions seen on The Cutting EdgeTM runway are the culmination of a yearlong process undertaken by University of the Incarnate Word senior fashion design students who learn to design and create within time-lines and budgets typical in the industry.
During the fall, students develop a collection of 12 illustrations which are juried by faculty and industry professionals. The top eight illustrations become the students’ collections. Patterns are developed and sample garments are made as students work under tight deadlines.
In the spring, students produce final garments and by spring break the judging process begins. There are two panels of judges made up of local industry professionals; one for construction and one for design. The garments and collections with the judges’ highest scores win prizes for design, construction, and best collection.
Production:
Every spring semester, students in the Fashion Show Production class come to understand the intensity of work required to produce an industry standard, professional runway show.
The class is broken into committees that coordinate all aspects of the show. One committee coordinates with the designers to secure their collection sketches, assist with hair, make-up, music selections and a photo shoot. Another reviews agency model books, organizes fittings and develops a working model lineup for the show. There is a committee for dressers to assist the models back stage, and one that coordinates the sound, lighting, and photography of the show.
The culmination of their coursework is a perennially successful event.
