Runway 5.0: April 21

Want to see the latest in swimwear, evening wear, and sporty college fashions modeled with creative flair? Look no further than Runway 5.0, Buffalo State's annual spring fashion extravaganza, April 21 at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. in the Pierce Arrow Building, 1685 Elmwood Avenue.

Runway showcases the best work of fashion and technology program students, along with that of faculty, alumni, and a few Western New York designers. This year’s show includes about 75 clothing pieces that reflect the theme "synthesis."

"We are combining the separate elements to form a coherent whole, offering new, unexpected combinations that can confront opposites," said Elaine Polvinen, professor of technology and coordinator of the fashion and technology program.

Fashion and design students produce and stage Runway under the supervision of producer Erin Habes, lecturer of technology. Sophomore fashion merchandising major Shannon Campbell was chosen to be this year’s student director.

A faculty/student panel judged each submission—including those of faculty and alumni—for how the garment fits the theme of the show and the quality of its workmanship. 

"You’ll see everything from Hawaiian-inspired sarongs to skateboarding outfits to a few fantastical garments," said Lynn Boorady, associate professor of technology, who also has original designs in the show. "Every year the show keeps getting better and better. It’s only the cream of the crop that gets in."

The models, who primarily come from professional agencies, also represent a wide spectrum of women—from tall and very thin to plus-size.

Runway 5.0 is sponsored by M&T Bank, Taco Bell, New Era, Vitamin Water, the Eastman Foundation, Block Club, and Buffalo Spree magazine. Participating students have the chance to win the $1,000 Nancy Belfer Award for the senior collection, a $500 scholarship sponsored by the Research and Eastman foundations, and a $1,000 scholarship in memory of fashion merchandising student Erika Paige Hoerner.

"This show is going to be monumental," Campbell said. "The overall support of the community and sponsors is absolutely phenomenal. We couldn’t do it without them."

Tickets to the afternoon show are $15 for students and $20 for the general public. Tickets to the evening show are $30 for everyone. VIP tickets that include a reception at 6:30 p.m. catered by Buffalo State’s Hospitality and Tourism Department cost $100.

Regular tickets are available at Wegmans and at Rockwell Hall Box Office. For VIP tickets, call the School of the Professions at (716) 878-6018.