Graduating students in Humber Polytechnic’s Fashion Arts and Business program presented their capstone project Unfiltered in April and it was a fashion show that embraced untamed elegance, androgynous, avant-garde and theatrical style.
Unfiltered drew inspiration from the fashions of the 1990s, the elegance of Chanel, and the electricity of Vivienne Westwood. The theme projected a sense of rebellion, uniqueness and elegance.
The Fashion Arts and Business students wanted to put on a show that would be different than previous years. During the brainstorming process for the theme of the show, the team expressed their love and appreciation of particular fashion trends, pieces and even historical fashion events.
“Everyone on the team had a unique idea of what fashion meant to them,” said Natalina Jbeily, who served as the project manager. “But what united us was our love and appreciation for Vivienne Westwood’s brand identity.”
Drawing on inspiration from Westwood and Chanel allowed them to think about how they could use it but still differentiate themselves and present their own identity. By deconstructing their ideas and curating their thoughts and picks, the concept of Unfiltered was born.
Unfiltered’s tagline was Untamed Elegance and it reflected the theme of the show. Adorned in sustainable fashions, Unfiltered allowed the students to create new fashions. The common themes throughout Unfiltered were denim, blazers, mixed coloured skirts and statement accessories. Untamed Elegance represented deconstructed silhouettes that came together in a mix of chaos and refinement. Unfiltered showcased maximalism and diversity through its runway looks and brand identity.
Longo Faculty of Business Associate Dean Bruce Sinclair and Fashion Arts and Business Professor Vladimira Steffek provided support and guidance and helped the students through the months-long process of planning, design, coordination and execution.
"Unfiltered offered such a beautiful experience for everyone involved, and I am eternally proud of what we pulled off together,” said Kiera Bloch, assistant project manager. Receiving the opportunity to lead this year’s show alongside (Project Manager Natalina Jbeily) is something I am very grateful for. Stepping into the role of assistant project manager allowed me to witness the hard work of every single student on the Unfiltered team; all of whom made the show possible with their passion and diligence.”
“While leading this project did not come without its challenges and extreme dedication, this made the finished product and its success even more fulfilling” she continued. I will carry this experience with me forever, as well as my gratitude towards the Unfiltered team, faculty, and everyone who showed support in bringing Unfiltered to life.”
“To me, Unfiltered was a true reflection of what fashion should be,” said Jbeily, “Capitalizing that one does not need to live underneath a filter, and neither does fashion. Fashion should not have expectations and limitations, but break boundaries and captivate others, revealing one’s true self that cannot be expressed verbally.”
For more information, visit the Fashion Arts and Business program website.