Fashion and Design Student Association: Fall 2024 Fashion Show, Roadside Attraction: Phenomena of Funhouse Shows Attendees A New Side of Carnival

This past Friday, November 15, Rouge Magazine had the opportunity to “ step into FDSA’s whimsical world where illusion meets reality” and “discover the unexpected and embrace the joy of wonder at every twist and turn” at their fall 2024 fashion show-Roadside Attraction: Phenomena of Funhouse.

Whimsical does not even begin to describe the creativity and attention to detail shown by FDSA and its members. This show exemplified the funhouse phenomena, from the individual designs to the venue's setup. For the first time, the show was hosted at The Venue at Aberdeen in Statham, Georgia, a “timeless and expansive property” reimaged into a hometown carnival. Adorned with cotton candy machines, popcorn, hot chocolate, and local music, the atmosphere was absolutely one of a carnival night. However, it was not all fun and games; clown masks and mysteriously bloody signs lined the walls, reminding attendees the carnival was not always what it seemed.

As models began to take the spiral-like runway to music composed by the Student Composers Association with the University of Georgia’s School of Music, the eerily yet wondrous scene was set. In the most unique clothes, models of all genders strutted and posed while the audience watched with awe. Here are a few of my favorite pieces:

Starting with the very first model of the show, the ringleader. An air of dignity and respect rolls off the model as they walk down the runway in an outfit for the leader. However, as they turn around, skeletal bones are seen poking through the jacket, leaving attendees questioning.

Next, we have a rendition of the carousel and its ponies. Showing off in a light pink suit set embellished with sequin designers, the model's energy sways all attendees, watching her go round and round.

My final favorite, a black gown with featherlike hair pieces, stuns audience members. It is sultry and dark, showing another facet of the stereotypical carnival.

Events such as this fashion show allow students to showcase their talent and creativity and will enable the audience to experience said creativity, which is just as important.

“Creativity is so important, and it's often overlooked.[...] It's like freedom. Everyone should explore a creative opportunity,” spoken by Jenna Richards, an FDSA member and a fashion merchandise/ studio art student at UGA.

I think Jenna has the right advice: Being creative in any form is important. We all deserve an outlet for expression. Roadside Attraction served as an exemplary outlet for expression, allowing models, designers, and the audience to deep-dive into the wondrous realm of carnivals.

Graphic by Jolie Bellaff