2011 HOMECOMING FASHION SHOW Simply Fashion Made Simple By Alexis Drakeford I was running late to the Bowie State University homecoming fashion show that was set to begin at 7 p.m. on Sept. 16. When I got there 20 minutes before show time, I was just hoping to get a good seat. But once I saw the line, I knew that I had nothing to worry about. There were only about four people in line. As the minutes rushed by, the skimpy line grew longer. It was long past 7 p.m. and the doors finally opened. I was checked by security and greeted by shirtless men with their chests covered in gold paint. I found my seat and waited patiently for the show to start. It was 8 p.m. and I was getting very disappointed, not to mention the pain I am beginning to feel in my bottom due to the uncomfortable gym stands. Finally, 8:24 p.m. rolled around and the show got started. I’m a little anxious because the first scene set the tone for the rest of the show. Excitement flushed throughout my body. Fonzworth Bentley was the host. Style exuded from his entire demeanor. He got me excited for what was to strut down the runway. But, to my disappointment, the first scene was utterly underwhelming. My expectations for the rest of the show are now seemingly low. It didn’t get much better from there. The second scene was a bit more refreshing. “Year of the Gentlemen” was its name. The third scene had beautiful outlandish jewelry courtesy of Traci Lynn Jewelry line. Scene four definitely caught the audience’s attention with its mirror-like long sleeved jumpsuits. “Beauty in Different Forms” had two parts. They just didn’t scream FASHION to me. Next, Julian Pierre Boney gave me a little relief with his off-the-shoulder, bubble mini dress. It was too cute and definitely something I would wear. The last scene gave the most excitement with its “Greek Love.” This showed school spirit for the different sororities and fraternities. The show didn’t show off Bowie State as a fashionable school. It was simply fashion made simple. There was nothing brought about to the imagination. There was no extravagance or opulence. I was expecting a bit more; nevertheless, Fonzworth Bentley made a few good points throughout the night. One key thing he said that caught my attention was “clothing is language.” He repeated this several times to grasp the audience’s attention. Whatever you wear sends a message to the world whether you realize it or not. We as young adults need to dress how we want to be perceived. So Bowie State students…what does your wardrobe say about you? | 
