Element X Fashion Show

The Element X Fashion Show, part of the Emergence of Love event, is a demonstration on the topics of socioeconomic awareness and injustices, cultural identity, and social awareness. Organized by Illinois Institute of Technology’s Black Student Union; in collaboration with Thee Royale Collection, Healthy Hood Chicago, Wolve Production, and Subtle Fashion Studio, the fashion showcase aims to empower emerging talent while promoting cultural competency, social change and socioeconomic development Element X Fashion is a dynamic fusion of art, activism, and community engagement. Rooted in the mission and vision of the Emergence of Love event, it serves as a beacon of hope, creativity, and solidarity, illustrating the transformative power of fashion in fostering positive social change. This fashion show will take place on Saturday, April 27, from 2–5:30 p.m. in The McCormick Tribune Campus Center.

Key Elements

• Celebrating Cultural Identity: The Element X Fashion Show is a platform for celebrating the rich tapestry of cultural identities within Chicago communities and beyond. From garments that convey politically educational messages, to contemporary expressions of style, the runway will feature a diverse array of fashion that reflects the multifaceted nature of the city. The runway will feature diverse fashion expressions reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of communities of color.

• Promoting Socio Economic Awareness: Fashion has long been a medium for social commentary and activism. The Element X Fashion Show leverages this power to raise awareness about pressing social issues, including racial injustice, economic inequality, and the need for community empowerment. Through thought-provoking designs and thematic presentations, the show sparks conversations and inspires action towards positive change. Through thematic presentations, the show aims to raise awareness about the socioeconomic inequalities that exist amongst majority communities of color.

• Empowering Emerging Talent: Beyond showcasing established designers, the Element X Fashion Show also serves as a platform for emerging talent, particularly from marginalized communities. By providing a spotlight for up-and-coming designers, stylists, and models, the event fosters creativity, entrepreneurship, and professional development within the fashion industry. Emerging designers, stylists, and models from marginalized communities are given a platform to showcase their creativity and talent alongside seasoned creatives.

• Fostering Cultural Competency: In line with the broader vision of the Emergence of Love event, Element X contributes to building cultural competency and enriching the campus and community. Through exposure to diverse styles and narratives, attendees gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures, fostering empathy, respect, and inclusivity. Attendees will gain exposure to diverse styles and narratives, fostering empathy, respect, and inclusivity.

• Inspiring Transformation: More than just a display of garments, the Element X Fashion Show is a catalyst for transformation. By challenging conventional norms and showcasing alternative perspectives, the event encourages individuals to embrace their unique identities, express themselves authentically, and actively participate in shaping a more equitable and inclusive society. The Element X Fashion Show challenges norms and inspires individuals to embrace their identities and participate in positive socioeconomic shifts.

Number of Looks

Designers are required to create a minimum of six and up to 12 distinct looks for the Element X Fashion Show runway. Upon approval, designers are able to choose up to four more models if and only if up to 4 walks are paired down the runway.

Mission Statement

The Element X Fashion Show, rooted in the mission and vision of the Emergence of Love event, is a dynamic fusion of art, activism, and community engagement. Our mission is to serve as a beacon of hope, creativity, and solidarity, illustrating the transformative power of fashion in fostering positive social change. Through an immersive experience, we aim to redefine the fashion narrative, elevate marginalized voices, and inspire collective action towards a more inclusive and just society.

Core Values

• Artistic Empowerment: We believe in the artistic empowerment of designers and creators. Element X Fashion Show values fashion as a form of creative expression and activism, providing a platform for artists to showcase their work and contribute to a more vibrant and diverse cultural landscape.

• Activism Through Style: Our values center around using fashion as a vehicle for activism. Element X Fashion Show actively encourages designers to infuse their creations with social messages, raising awareness about pressing issues, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring conversations that drive positive change.

• Inclusivity at the Forefront: Inclusivity is a fundamental value. Element X Fashion Show is committed to breaking down traditional fashion norms, promoting diversity in all aspects, including body types, ethnicities, genders, and styles. We strive to create a runway that reflects the beauty of human diversity.

• Community Collaboration: The Element X Fashion Show values collaboration with local communities. We actively engage with communities to ensure that the runway becomes a shared space for cultural celebration, economic empowerment, and fostering a sense of unity and interconnectedness.

• Sustainable Fashion Leadership: Sustainability is at the core of our values. Element X Fashion Show advocates for responsible and sustainable fashion practices, encouraging designers to prioritize ethical sourcing, eco-friendly production methods, and a commitment to reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

• Narrative Transformation: The Element X production team seeks to transform the fashion narrative. Element X Fashion Show challenges prevailing norms, redefines beauty standards, and actively works towards dismantling harmful narratives in the fashion industry. We aim to empower individuals to embrace their unique identities and express themselves authentically.

Contribution to Societal Transformation

• Cultural Shifting Through Art: The Element X Fashion Show envisions contributing to societal transformation by culturally shifting perceptions through art. We believe that fashion has the power to influence societal attitudes and inspire a cultural shift towards acceptance, celebration, and understanding.

• Empowering Marginalized Voices: Our mission is to empower marginalized voices. Element X Fashion Show actively seeks designers and artists from underrepresented communities, providing them with a platform to amplify their narratives, challenge systemic barriers, and contribute to the broader discourse on social justice.

• Inspiring Collective Action: Through the transformative power of fashion, Element X Fashion Show aims to inspire collective action. By showcasing the intersection of art and activism on the runway, we encourage audiences to engage in conversations, question societal norms, and take action towards building a more equitable and compassionate world.

• Elevating Local Communities: The Element X Fashion Show is dedicated to elevating local communities. By collaborating with community organizations, artists, and businesses, we aim to create an inclusive and economically empowering environment that uplifts the unique cultural fabric of the regions we engage with.

• Educating and Encouraging Sustainable Choices: We strive to educate and encourage sustainable choices. The Element X Fashion Show advocates for a shift towards sustainable fashion practices, influencing both designers and consumers to make choices that prioritize environmental responsibility and ethical fashion.

In summary, Element X Fashion Show stands as a dynamic and transformative force, driven by the fusion of art, activism, and community engagement. Rooted in the Emergence of Love event's mission and vision, our runway endeavors to redefine fashion, inspire collective action, and contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable, and socially conscious society.