Parsons School of Design’s BFA Fashion show for 2024 was a testament to the boundless creativity and inclusivity that define the school. The graduating class of 275 students, the largest in the program’s history, presented a diverse and captivating array of 175 unique looks, representing each of the program’s five distinct pathways: Collections, Fashion Product, Materiality, Systems & Society, and Phygital Fashion.
While the show was meticulously organized with subtle sub-themes, the one-look-per-student format created a sense of multiplicity akin to examining a pointillist painting up close. The individual pieces formed a diverse tapestry, providing glimpses into the students’ unique perspectives and design philosophies. To delve deeper into the collections, the school has made available a platform where fashion enthusiasts can explore the intricate details and inspirations behind each design.
Dramatic silhouettes emerged as a dominant trend, with designers emphasizing curves and angles to create visually striking forms. Hips, shoulders, and bottoms often became focal points, accentuating the natural contours of the body. The influence of Comme de Garçons’ Rei Kawakubo was evident in the bulbous and exaggerated shapes that graced the runway.
Monsters and otherworldly creatures emerged as recurring motifs, alluding to the post-human theme explored by several students. The use of briefcases as accessories stood out as a nod to the evolving nature of work in the post-COVID era, where corporate uniforms offer a semblance of stability amidst uncertainty.
The fast-paced digital age and the fluid nature of a globalized society instilled a sense of anxiety and detachment in some students, leading them to seek comfort and belonging through fashion. Nostalgia and anemoia (nostalgia for a time one has never experienced) fueled their explorations, with personal histories and queer culture serving as rich sources of inspiration. Students also cast a critical eye on the past, examining the enduring effects of colonialism and grappling with the complexities of Americana.
Sustainability was a key consideration for many collections, but it was often woven into the narrative rather than serving as the primary focus. The students’ written statements revealed their deep interest in harnessing fashion as a powerful medium for storytelling, communication, and social change. They viewed garments as tools for fostering connections, expressing individuality, and envisioning a more equitable future.
