The origins of iconic fashion trends have long been contested, but UT San Antonio’s Black Student Union set the record straight. At their first annual Fashion Showcase, the BSU modeled the best looks of recent decades — all of which arose from influential Black fashion icons.
The event’s Fashion Coordinator, junior computer science and marketing major Kaliyah Gaines, made the evening’s getups possible.
“Every single model was basically my responsibility,” Gaines shared. “I helped them organize their outfits. I coordinated with them. I put together a lending closet, just in case people didn’t have what they needed, ‘cause this is a showcase.
“Our whole point was to showcase what you already have and your natural talents.”
Attendees in the Student Union’s Retama auditorium on March 27 were brought back to the 80s as the DJ blasted “Get Down on It” by Kool & The Gang. The decade’s models donned oversized leather coats; sharp, tailored suit jackets; and dazzling gold accessories. BSU speakers revealed that the foundational figures who inspired exemplary 80s outfits were fashion designer Dapper Dan and Black supermodel Iman.
TLC’s “No Scrubs” rang in the 90s. Varsity jackets, jerseys and logo-laden looks cemented urban style into the mainstream. The final model of the 90s boasted a simple black suit and white shirt with a popped collar, but what set her apart was her sequin-covered fedora, sky-high stilettos and staggering strut. Her walk entirely embodied Michael Jackson, someone she credited as a star of the 90s style.
The 2000s models were nothing short of glamorous, and 2010s swag was undeniable. Rapper André 3000 and singer Rihanna set the visual standard for the decades.
However, the true standout decade of the night was the 2020s. The modern era is making waves by breaking the mold of Black fashion, allowing self-expression to thrive, regardless of mainstream aesthetics.
Senior psychology major Ciara Johnson, the fan-favorite model of the 2020s, boasted an alternative, black, pink and leopard print guise covered in sparkling silver accessories and fishnets.
“I hope to inspire a lot of Black people that lean more towards an alternative kind of look,” Johnson asserted. “I feel like it’s important to show that there isn’t just a single definition of what it is to be Black, and how to express yourself. At the end of the day, we’re Black, but we also have other interests. I feel like it’s important to highlight those differences.”
BSU’s Fashion Showcase was not some simple show, it was Black innovation given the spotlight it deserves. To keep up with upcoming BSU events, follow their instagram @utsa_bsu.
