|
April 16, 2009
Media contact: Patty Wellborn
Office: 604-795-2819
patty.wellborn@ufv.ca
Imagination soars on catwalk at UFV’s fashion showcase
Watch video
Creativity and imagination will spark the runway at the Absolute Style fashion show presented by the University of the Fraser Valley’s Fashion Design students. This year’s show, on Wednesday, April 29, brings fresh new ideas to what will be one of the most exhilarating fashion shows of the season, says Deanna Devitt, UFV Fashion Design department head.
“You will not be disappointed,” says Devitt. “This year’s collections are so distinct; there is something for everybody.”
Some of the designs include modern sporty medical scrubs, theatrical costumes, Steam Punk costumes for film, special-occasion children’s wear inspired by fresh garden prints, and environmentally-conscious designs that use only eco-friendly fabrics. A number of collections this year have an international flavour, including African-inspired wedding designs and modern Indo-Canadian fashions.
“What makes our event so unique is the combination of marketable designs and the art-to-wear section of the show,” explains Devitt. “Hand-painted silk and loom-woven garments are special features this year.”
“The students have worked extremely hard and after two years of intense study they are ready to show their new creations,” she says. “Research and analysis are vital elements in the process, however, the students never lose sight of the importance of creativity and vision. Our program encourages designers to look beyond the boundaries to create garments that reflect a personal style.”
Absolute Style is not only a fashion show. It’s also an opportunity for the audience to catch a glimpse of all that UFV’s Fashion Design program has to offer.
“We have a variety of options to choose from in our program so students can create their own experience. We don’t lock our students into a set format but rather allow them to choose their professional direction in the area of textiles, marketing, or technology.
There are many success stories about UFV’s fashion design graduates. Most recently Emily McIntyre and Kidde Itto were among the 25 finalists in this year’s national Telio competition and were flown to Montreal where they had a chance to meet industry professionals. As part of the contest they had the opportunity to showcase their designs at Montreal Fashion Week. Both McIntyre and Itto are graduating this spring and their designs will be on view at Absolute Style.
Studio exhibits from other UFV Fashion Design students will be showcased in UFV’s Fashion Design wing in Building D
of the university’s Abbotsford campus. Visitors are welcome to explore the design labs and display areas and also meet with instructors and students. The rooms are open from noon to 5:30 p.m. Graduate portfolio displays will be in the Student Activity Centre.
“UFV offers an exciting introduction to the world of fashion that leads to a unique two-year Fashion Design diploma,” says Devitt. “Our program strikes just the right balance across fashion design, production, textiles, and leading-edge computer technology that is required for a career in today’s fashion industry. Our students develop the artistic vision and technical knowledge needed to create garments for a wide range of markets while they explore each facet of the industry.”
Absolute Style takes place in the Student Activity Centre on UFV’s Abbotsford campus on Wednesday April 29. Tickets are $10 for the 2:30 pm show (doors open at 2) and $18 for the 7 pm event. UFV’s Alumni Association will host a wine and cheese reception for the evening show and that begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are only available in advance and can be purchased from Fashion Design department assistant Corinne Richardson at corinne.richardson@ufv.ca or call 604-864-4669.
“We would like to thank our sponsors as Absolute Style 2009 would not be possible without their generous support,” adds Devitt.
For more details about UFV’s Fashion Design diploma or Absolute Style please visit www.ufv.ca/fashion.
-30-
| 
