Students Add Creative Flair to Mass Appeal

Students from three SUNY Buffalo State programs are participating in a community fashion show, Mass Appeal, on Saturday, November 23, at the Pierce Arrow Film Arts Center, 1685 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo.   

A VIP pre-party begins at 6:00 p.m. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. for the show.

The sixth annual event is hosted by the Elmwood Village Association and features the best local boutiques, designers, and artists. The goal is to promote fashion created and sold within Elmwood Village.

Approximately 30 students from the Fashion and Textile Technology (FTT) Department are assisting designers and boutique owners in styling the outfits for the show. Additionally, students in the Interior Design Department are creating the installation within the VIP lounge, and Hospitality and Tourism Department students are helping cater the event.

“Our partnership with Buffalo State is natural because of the college’s position within the Elmwood Village neighborhood,” said Nina Barone, Mass Appeal 2013 chair. “(FTT lecturer) Erin Habes’ inspired, tireless vision and the students’ impressive creative work reflect the focus on engagement and collaboration within our community, which is so important to this event and to the Elmwood Village Association.”

Barone said that the association has eight sponsors for the show, along with nine participating local boutiques, seven participating salons, and several in-kind donors.

“The event would not be possible without the support of many in our community,” she said.

This year’s theme, “Activate: #PushGo,” promotes elements of engagement with one’s community using social media as one platform to keep guests involved in the show.

Habes noted that the exciting event highlights the array of fashion Buffalo has to offer.

“Mass Appeal really promotes local businesses,” Habes said, “and it provides a great experience for students because of the connections that they are able to make.”

General admission seats are $35; VIP tickets are $125 and include preferred seating and admission to the exclusive VIP lounge. To order tickets, go to www.elmwoodvillage.org.

All proceeds benefit the Elmwood Village Association for beautification and infrastructure improvement, programs and events, and economic development activities.