Review: Luminous UT Fashion Show

UT’s Division of Textiles and Apparel held its annual year-end fashion show, Luminous, this past Friday at the Frank Erwin Center. Twenty-three senior designers each presented a ready to wear, evening, and bridal collection - which was a huge feat and definitely didn’t disappoint. Maybe it’s the excitement for summer, maybe it’s the Austin mentality, but the theme of the night was color, color, and more color. There was a heavy infusion of vibrant hues and print into just about every piece, and watching the show was like being in a psychedelic candy store - complete with thumping soundtrack by Ting Tings .

As much as we love regressing back to the days of Rainbow Brite, we were drooling over the more European and subtle design sensibilities - like that of Nicole Huneycutt, Stephanie Wagenman, and Christie Aderhold. Huneycutt was as on trend as any designer could be, with voluminous harem pants and edgy, exposed zipper detailing that were expertly constructed and wearable, similar to what you'd see on the likes of Gossip Girl. Wagenman created a collection like a true designer, a season ahead - with heavy layering, hints of jewel tones, all pulled together by a Parisian and boyish styling that was very, very Fall. Finally, Aderhold’s haute hippie bridal dress was the jaw dropper of the show - her gown was so current, so chic, and perfectly ruched with a center front seaming that appeared almost ethereal as the model glided across the stage. There’s no better place for hippie bridal than right here in Austin - so we can only hope Unbridaled will be calling this girl up for some business faster than you can say graduation.