Nicole BreslinThomas Jefferson University’s 2nd Annual Fashion Film Premiere & Runway was nothing short of a dazzling showcase of creativity, innovation, and artistic excellence. The East Falls campus’ Gallagher Event Center was magnificently transformed to a modern, luxurious runway setting for this event highlighted the exceptional talent emerging from Jefferson’s fashion programs and demonstrating the dynamic intersection between film and fashion.
The evening began with the recognition of the Jefferson Fashion Design Department, and an acknowledgment of Dean Michael Leonard. Dean Leonard has been the dean of the School of Design and Engineering for 25+ years, and recently retired in June 2024. In honor of his dedication to the students and love of design, a scholarship was established in his name at the university to help aid an aspiring design student on their journey through education.
Following university recognitions and accolades was the debut of the 2024 Jefferson Fashion Design Film. Unlike previous years, this year’s film was split into 4 segments, with modern, show-stopping senior designs walking the runway between each segment. These looks from the capstone collections of the graduating class of 2024 provided a unique narrative exploring themes of identity, sustainability, and futuristic design. The runway featured everything from sustainable materials to bold, conceptual pieces that pushed the boundaries of conventional fashion. These films not only provide viewers a look into the capstone collection process and inspirations, but also showcased student work as a visual spectacle highlighted by dramatic movement and lighting within a striking industrial, urban studio backdrop.
The event was a testament to the university’s commitment to nurturing creativity and fostering an environment where students can experiment and excel. Industry professionals, alumni, and fashion enthusiasts alike were captivated by the high caliber of work presented, underscoring Jefferson’s role as a leading institution in fashion education.
In sum, the 2nd Annual Fashion Film Premiere & Runway was a celebration of the next generation of fashion visionaries. It reaffirmed Thomas Jefferson University’s position at the forefront of fashion innovation and left attendees eagerly anticipating what future editions of this event will bring.
Watch the 2024 Fashion Design Film & Runway on YouTube.
FEATURED DESIGNERS
Ashley Alvarez- “Formalistic Fantastia”
This collection has drawn inspiration from a wonderful concept illustrator named Mary Blair. As an independent working mom in the 50’s, she took inspiration in the world around her and incorporated her vision of magic and fantasy into her work. . “Formalistic Fantasia” was sparked by her work from The Walt Disney Animation Studio for Cinderella, Peter Pan, and Alice in Wonderland. Her talent in colors and simplistic geometric illustrations paved a new wave of illustrating. This collection incorporates her key sense of colors and shapes to tell the story of fantasy.
Diana Cornejo- “Sultans & Souks: The Colors of Morocco”
This collection is designed with a gender-neutral approach, celebrating inclusivity and diversity. It features silhouettes that can effortlessly be styled and worn by anyone, embracing a fluid and versatile aesthetic. Relaxed, flowing tunics with loose cuts and wide-legged trousers provide comfort and ease, appealing to individuals who appreciate gender-neutral fashion. These adaptable pieces can be styled in various ways, allowing wearers to express their individuality and personal style. Also, by highlighting the use of natural fabrics, particularly Moroccan linens, in tailored suits and shirts for comfort and refined elegance, I am drawing focus on the importance of sustainability and the move towards slow fashion.Textile Collaboration with Carey Pumo: Knit
Elena Harris- “Tokyo Nexus”
Tokyo Nexus is a futuristic sci-fi inspired collection inspired by a mix of cyberpunk, transformation, and anime pop culture. It is fast, sleek, professional, functional, fresh, cutting-edge, and hot. This collection was created for the daring dreamers of this world that look towards innovation and change.
Frankie Sanchez- “Sorry Not Sorry”
This collection is based on my years of growth as a queer BIPOC designer. My pieces showcase not only my skills that I’ve learned on my own, but also my culture and my story. By using silhouettes seen in both black and Latin culture, mixed with the bright colors of memories, I bring something that’s unapologetically me. Textile Collaboration with Ashley Clark: Jacquard
James Mamrol- “CHROMATIC”
CHROMATIC is a Spring/Summer 2024 collection centered around my personal experience of New York City jazz clubs. This collection is set for the Gen Z consumer, who likes maximalism, and a bit of opulence. This intimates/streetwear collection primarily consists of denim and mesh, with painted and top-stitched detailing. Textile Collaboration with Isabela Moreno: Print
Jordan Benstead- “Rio Enchante”
Rio Enchanté is an awe-inspiring women’s bridal collection for the year 2024 that draws inspiration from the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Fusing the city’s rich cultural heritage, the mesmerizing Spix’s Macaw bird, the flamboyant allure of Carnival dancers, and the captivating landscapes of Rio, this collection transports brides into a world of enchantment and celebration.
Kalen Jordan- “The RunDown”
This is a collection inspired by my unique view of the peak of 90s Hip-Hop and fashion through male rappers. I partnered with surface imaging to create custom graphics highlighting the countless individuals who lost their lives to police brutality in America. Overall, the looks include fine and neat details that are key to my design aesthetic. Textile Collaboration with Hanna Shaub: Knit; Surface Imaging Collaboration- Screen Printing
Miriam Badri- “Cowboy Couture”
“Cowboy Couture” is a versatile women’s costume and ready-to-wear collection inspired by space western aesthetics, specifically from vintage comic books, costume history, and rhinestone cowgirls. This collection juxtaposes cooler and saturated space hues with warm and rustic western tones. The aesthetic is embodied in this collection through rhinestones, metallic adhesives, and appliqués. Textile Collaboration with Hope Porter: Jacquard
Nia Hargrove- “The Toybox”
“The Toybox” is a spring/summer womenswear collection that pulls from rave culture, specifically the Kandi kid subculture. Beaded trinkets are the heart of Kandi kid culture and childish and playful aesthetics are incorporated as well. By taking new and old rave fashion silhouettes and incorporating the fun of the Kandi kid, “The Toybox” aims to give statement pieces to the plus size maximalist consumer, as well as expose audiences to an underground subculture where unity is at the forefront. Art Collaboration with Teresa “TJ” Mitchell: Class of 26′ Fashion Design; Art collaboration with Stefauni Saldana: Fashion Design Alumna; Industrial Design Collaboration with Elijah Jones
Olivia Erwin- “The Pursuit”
“The Pursuit” is a fall 2026 streetwear collection designed for the gender-neutral community. The silhouettes in this collection contain many classic styles, while also displaying different and unique feelings and emotions through their depiction of color, original prints and fabrication choices. This collection demonstrates the organized mess that may occur inside of many individuals’ minds. The person wearing these garments wishes to express themselves while wanting to seem “put-together” to the outside world. They are greatly in touch with their feelings, but also believe they feel too many emotions for their own well-being. Through surface design on garments and using somewhat “chaotic” colorways, this collection will demonstrate that no one will ever truly know or understand what may happen inside of another’s mind if they look as though they have it together. Textile Collaboration with Lola Bakhadryrova: Knit
Ruchi Ladd- “Beauty in the Abstract”
“Beauty in the Abstract,” a spring/ summer 2024 collection, is inspired by the visionary abstract artist Carl Holty and the dynamic structures of Frankfurt, Germany. This collection seamlessly marries Holty’s bold, vibrant geometric compositions with the sleek lines and innovative design found in the heart of Frankfurt’s architectural landscape. Each garment in this collection is a canvas of creativity, translating Holty’s abstract expressionism into wearable art. Expect to find bold color blocking, asymmetrical silhouettes, and intricate patterns that echo Holty’s exploration of form and movement. The collection captures the essence of his distinctive brushstrokes, translating them into modern, edgy designs that reflect the spirit of individuality and self-expression. My palette draws from Holty’s rich color schemes and Frankfurt’s urban environment, featuring a mix of vibrant hues and muted tones. These colors are carefully curated to evoke the emotions and energy in both Holty’s artwork and the bustling cityscape of Frankfurt. Textile Collaboration with Hannah Shaub: Print
Satchel Smith- “Tunnel-less Vision”
“Tunnel-less Vision” is a menswear collection inspired by the intersection of black and queer culture and activism throughout the 70’s and 80’s. Although these communities weren’t necessarily intertwined, this collection takes both aspects to create a sophisticated yet dramatic vibe. Style within the Black Panther Party was characterized by edge and chicness, emphasizing monochromatic palettes, sophistication, and sleekness. Fashion within the ballroom community revolves around unique silhouettes and gender-bending aesthetics, playing with masculinity and femininity. The customer for this collection looks to make a statement with their style, bridging the gap between masculine and feminine clothing. The collection utilizes hard and soft textures and fabrics to emphasize the mixture of aesthetics relating to the overall theme. Textile Collaboration with Candance Betts: Jacquard
Spryng Matos- “Origin”
This collection was created to emphasize the importance of a child’s life journey. Your childhood is the most important years of your life, as it sets the tone for your adulthood. It’s important to teach children empowering affirmations, emotional stability, self-confidence, and other lessons that will help them later in life. It all starts when you’re a child; your childhood is the origin to your life path. The pieces in this collection include bold graphics, prints and textures. The collection is intended to inspire and guide children throughout this journey. Textile Collaboration with Katrina Kravchenko: Jacquard
Stanislava Norets- “Prologue”
Choosing a life path, like choosing a career, is ultimately the most difficult choice in our young lives, since we make this choice in our 20’s. How many of us have wondered “Who am I?” and “Who do I want to be?” How many of us get answers to these questions? Existential questions and crisis, although they take into account self-knowledge and self-acceptance, do not always give clear answers, leading to even greater reflection about the external and the essential. This collection’s search for oneself gives rise not only to endless questions, but also explores diverse, conflicting feelings and emotions.
Thea Marshall- “Chiaroscuro”
Named after the Italian art technique of creating high contrast between light and dark tones, this Spring/Summer 2025 women’s evening wear collection is an artistic and elegant take on the interplay of light and shadows across various mediums and elements in nature. From sleek tailored suits to carefully draped gowns, “Chiaroscuro” is made to enhance a woman’s curves and make sure she shines in a crowd rather than hide in the shadows.
Victoria Manna- “It’s All in Your Head”
“It’s All In Your Head” is a women’s elevated, ready-to-wear, seasonless collection. It is motivated by the intense emotions of three negative and three good feelings that have profoundly affected my life. Included are well-made, clean-finished, functional pieces with whimsical closures. This demonstrates how emotions can be all in your head and how life is continuously changing. Textile Collaboration with Mia Thorsen: Jacquard
Vittoria Gambino- “8-Bit Romance”
Step into a world where comfort meets class, where 8-bit games dance with 19th-century romance. “8-Bit Romance” is a Fall/Winter 2025 collection for men who appreciate elevated casual looks with versatility. The two worlds colliding gives a piece from the past and a sense of nostalgia. This is where history meets the arcade.
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