The Ashland University Fashion Department will host its spring fashion show on Friday, March 24 at 8 p.m. in the Dauch College of Business and Economics.

This year, the fashion show has a classic literature theme. According to one of the show’s co-producers, Johnathan Benko, the show, which is titled “An Elegant Tale,” was chosen as a way to allow “student designers a chance to interpret favorite stories into a brand-new and creative designs.”

According to Benko, “An Elegant Tale” will highlight 16 different stories including classics such as The Great Gatsby, Gone With The Wind, Alice in Wonderland and The Giver. Students were allowed to choose their own stories based on what they found most inspiring.

Each story will be represented by three looks created by student teams. Benko explained that, underclassmen, responsible for creating one garment, were paired with upperclassmen who created two looks, with the goal of creating a “cohesive collection.”

Planning for the fashion show began in October of the 2016 fall semester. The production is mostly student run with the help of Alison Rossi, a professor of fashion merchandising.

Fashion Merchandizing majors and minors, within the College of Business, had the chance to practice real-world skills in the planning process. Students were responsible for creating the set up and mood of the venue and runway, for budget planning, for event promotion, which included contacting alumni and business professionals and finally for the design and production of the fashion collections.

Senior designer, Jessica Perkins, explained that the best part of the experience for her was learning the process from start to finish of creating a garment and planning a fashion show.

“[Participating in the fashion show] helps you know how to sell the clothing and sell it to the customer better,” Perkins said.  “It has pushed me in a lot of ways that I didn’t expect. It’s been an experience that has shown me my limits and my work ethic. It will be something that will allow me to showcase my talents to a future employer.”

This year, students have the opportunity to showcase their work to several business professionals who will be in attendance at the show. The guest list includes Victoria Secret, Jo-Ann Fabrics, Cleveland-based Sterling Jewelers and others. Designers will have the chance to network with the visiting professionals prior to the show at a V.I.P event.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and tickets will be available for purchase for $3 at the entrance.