FADS’ ‘Neptune’s Ball’ fashion show fosters learning experience for crea

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Syracuse University’s Fashion and Design Society student models strutted across Shaw Quadrangle. They wore flowy dresses and skirts and their heels clacked against the pavement. Small, glowing spheres lined the corners of the Quad aligning with the show’s theme, Neptune’s Ball.

“I think a lot of people don’t realize how much actually has to happen to execute a fashion show on a college campus and on this larger scale,” said Leah Jones, the president of FADS. “It’s something so specific and so useful that FADS teaches, because if you go out into the field, you are going to need this type of experience.”

On Sunday, FADS hosted Neptune’s Ball, an entirely student-run fashion show. Student models showcased 70 different sci-fi-inspired outfits in a color scheme of blue, black and tan. Each look was adorned with creative accessories, including pearl necklaces and studded belts.

Zoe Boise, FADS creative director, said film series like “Star Wars,” “Star Trek” and “Dune” inspired the semester’s show theme. She said sci-fi films often draw to flowy and draping silhouettes, so the show sought to tap into that unique style.

Since FADS founder Aanya Singh, who graduated in 2021, defined the organization, it has become a group of highly devoted individuals working toward a common goal, Jones said. To make the club what it is today, Singh implemented semesterly fashion shows, photoshoots and created the club’s e-board, Jones said.

“Being the only student organization that consistently executes photoshoots and fashion shows both makes us very special in that sense and you also don’t have to come with any prior experience,” Jones said. “We are here to help people build.”

Jones said being part of FADS for the past four years has given her real-word experience of being in an executive position and dealing with budgeting and logistical planning.

The fashion show took place on the Quad for the first time ever. However, this challenged the set design team. When attempting to curate design elements for the non-traditional setting, the budget was a constraint.

Solange Jain | Staff Photographer

A model stops to pose for the audience, their all-white outfit being washed in blue and yellow lights.

The original plan was to put a sheer set of curtains on the Quad to fit into the theme of Neptune’s Ball. Yet, after discussing with the finance board, they chose sculptures of glowing spheres, still in theme but also on a budget, said Nashaly Bonilla, SU freshman and FADS member.

Young said the organization has fulfilled her childhood dreams of being a fashion designer. For many students, the group has provided the unique experience of being part of a fashion show without having to pursue a career in design.

“FADS has given me the ability to be myself unapologetically, especially being a science major,” Jones said. “Being a part of FADS has helped me realize that what you major in doesn’t always have to be the only thing you focus on, you can pour into your other passions as well.”

For all majors, FADS provides a space of creativity and learning for students to take a break from their traditional coursework. The group hopes that Neptune’s Ball and future semesterly fashion shows will encourage people to join the FADS community, Bonilla said.

“I am a freshman, I am not involved with a lot of things on campus so it’s kind of an escape for me,” Bonilla said. “Going to the meetings is taking a break from the things I have to do for my classes and being with people who appreciate the arts and also have very creative minds.”