A stand to purchase a copy of Issue 18.
MISHA JABAL-ABADI / THE QUADRANGLE
Misha Jabal-Abadi, Asst. Production Editor
On Friday, April 25, LOTUS Magazine held its annual fashion show at the 5th floor of Kelly Commons, where a number of designers showed off their collections to a crowd of over a hundred people. This year, six designers created pieces that fit the theme of “metamorphosis,” which is parallel to the theme of issue 18.
Ivy Jaep, senior marketing and global business major as well as the editor-in-chief of LOTUS explained that Abigail Booth, sophomore communication major as well and the assistant fashion and beauty editor for the club pitched the metamorphosis theme, as she thought it properly reflects the current state of the world.
“Change is happening, and it’s always happening, but it’s how we go through it and deal with it that really matters and is wonderful,” Jaep said.
The LOTUS fashion show consisted of a few sponsorships that were showcased throughout the event, with the help of Nicholas Melendez, junior biology major, as well as the head of partnerships and videographer for the club, who made it all happen. Those who attended the show and purchased a magazine were able to grab a cupcake catered from Magnolia Bakery, along with a goody bag filled with products from the sponsorships.
“I was fortunate enough to secure a partnership with David Protein Bars, Grüns Superfood Greens Gummies,
and Once Upon a Coconut water,” Melendez said.
As the show began, a number of models began walking down the runway, wearing clothing from their designers’ collection. From crochet outfits, to elegant dresses, cultural garments and more, the runway had it all.
Sienna Gallus, junior psychology major and the assistant editor-in-chief of LOTUS, served as one of the designers for this year’s show. Her line titled “Super Abundance” comments on unethical labor practices in the clothing industry, as well as overconsumption. All her designs were created through materials that were already available to her, or purchased second-hand, demonstrating that people don’t always need to resort to buying something new.
“I used curtains from my house and my mom’s doilies that she had at her wedding,” Gallus said. “Also, my aunt had a bunch of random textiles from all over the world that I used.”
A moment that deeply resonated with every member of the show was the unanimous realization of how much passion everyone has, and put into making the night a success. Through the help of a committed team, it allowed for the workload and preparation to run much easier than expected.
“The team behind LOTUS is immensely hardworking, and I’ve noticed that all of us actively aimed to curate a perfect experience for those who attended,” Melendez said.
As graduation is soon approaching for Jaep, Gallus is next to take the reins as one of LOTUS’ new editors–in-chief. She is advocating for any prospective club members to join the team, and hopes she can continue to bring people toward LOTUS.
“I’m really happy that we can just draw more people’s attention to LOTUS, because the club means a lot to me and a lot of other people,” Gallus said.