MODA hosts fashion show downtown

Katy TerBerg
Staff Reporter 

On April 13 and 14 the Radisson Hotel will host MODA’s “The Color Theory,” a fashion show featuring the works of student designers from Western Michigan University’s apparel and textile programs. 

 “The Color Theory,” according to a press release sent out by MODA, is a fresh, simplistic, eclectic new concept that hopes to be the biggest show that the organization has produced thus far. “A vibrant collection of edgy colors and geometrical shapes will set the mood for this spring’s fashion extravaganza,” the press release stated.

 MODA, the Merchandising Opportunities & Design Association, is an elite fashion RSO at WMU for students interesting in pursuing fashion design. According to the press release, this semester “is aiming for excellence by providing its attendees with an upscale runway exhibition.”

 “The purpose of MODA is to showcase the amazing talent we have on campus with our student designers,” said Paige O’Shea, who has modeled for MODA for three semesters. “We are lucky to have such a large population of MODA members who love to design and are extremely talented at it.”

In addition to providing a showcase for WMU’s aspiring designers, according to the press release, MODA “will donate proceeds from their spring fashion show to Susan G. Komen for the Cure to help eradicate breast cancer as a life threatening illness.”

 “There is so much anticipation that is leading up the show,” O’Shea said. “The designers are extremely creative and somehow manage to pull together wearable artwork in a short time frame.”

 In the ballroom of the Radison Hotel, MODA will showcase their designs. In one of Kalamazoo’s premier fashion events, guests will range from students to business professionals alike. Due to increased brand exposure and enhanced intricacies, MODA has modeled their production after New York Fashion Week. 

 “The concept of the spring show is focused on ‘color blocking,’” O’Shea said, citing one of the season’s biggest trends.

 According to the press release, the Radisson Hotel is a favored location for its “luxurious vibe and tasteful amenities.”

 The two-day event will be held Saturday, April 13 and Sunday, April 14 at 8 pm. General admission tickets are $15. Student tickets, which can be purchased at www.MODAWMU.tix.com, are $10, and VIP tickets are $25. 

 “MODA is a great representation of students at WMU because it showcases the diversity and talent that our students have. I am always so proud to lend a hand and help out because I know that it is embellishing WMU’s reputation as well as promoting creativity in Kalamazoo,” O’Shea said.