Introduction to the Next Generation of Fashion
On Friday, May 16, the Savannah College of Art and Design’s Atlanta Campus was abuzz with excitement. The crowds gathered around the runway, chatting eagerly as alumni Wayne Bucknor Jr. and Maxwell Park began to play the cello and piano, respectively. The musical opener was followed by a stream of large men’s clothing, featuring sharp tailoring and a graceful drape, with runway references to boho chic and Western wear.
A Decisive Collection
The majority of the collections presented on Friday were decisive, a rare occurrence in student collections. A strong thread became apparent in conversations with eight of SCAD’s soon-to-be fashion program graduates: the next generation of fashion is aware of the hard work and training that lies ahead, and their clothing needs to sell. As BFA student Flora Medina puts it, "Everything is a business."
The Runway Showcase
The runway, decorated with a colorful work of art by SCAD alum Trish Andersen, featured the work of 53 students, about a third of the final class of the fashion program. The event celebrated the work of the next generation of design talents from Savannah and Atlanta, marking the last hurray of the cohort before they completed college at the end of May.
Ambitions and Aspirations
Many in this group have ambitions to found their own brands, but almost everyone wants to gain experience with existing labels and companies first. Some are cautious about the industry, while others are eager to dive in and get started. The runway on Friday was the highlight of the first step in the young careers of these students.
Meet the Designers
Cyerra Latham, BFA Fashion
Cyerra Latham’s designs opened the show on Friday evening. Her collection was inspired by her parents’ love story, and she wanted to incorporate elements from both her mother and father. Latham’s interest in clothing production was sparked by a factory visit during high school, and her time at SCAD helped her develop her design style and love for tailoring, suits, and textiles.
Future Plans and Hopes
The students share their post-degree plans, why they do what they do, and their hopes and reservations about entering an industry that looks very different from when they started at SCAD four years ago. With a focus on making their clothing sell, these young designers are ready to take on the fashion world.
