Although they are considered new graduates, the creations they displayed are equivalent to professional fashion standards. And they showed their mettle at the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur where an air of exuberance was felt.

The fashion graduation show staged by these students from Limkokwing University of Creative Technology attracted shoppers, fashion designers and invited guests.

The university’s vice-president for network development and student affairs, Nazaruddin Abdul Jalil, said the event provides a platform for students to showcase their designs in diverse categories. “It was also an opportunity for them to demonstrate other skills like event management, music arrangement, modeling and make-up,” he noted.

“They showed their high level of professionalism and their ability to work as a team.”

Big rounds of applause

The university’s Sound and Music Academy kicked off the event with a dance and the beating of drums performed by international students.

Themed Magic, the occasion enabled 25 graduates to display their creative flair. Their designs were well-received by the audience who gave them big rounds of applause.

After three years of studying fashion design, the students showed their talent and knowledge. They fared well in presenting a variety of designs based on the fashion tastes of celebrities and international icons.

For instance, Norazeha Myrahani Mohammed Yusof, 23, created her nostalgic collection to portray Michael Jackson’s liking for tight black pants, chains and matching black boots.

“I chose Michael Jackson because even till today his fashion is stilled followed by his admirers. He is truly a fashion icon. I mainly used black, gold, red and royal blue as the main colours.

“For fabrics, I chose patterned PVC, jersey and satin while the accessories included metal studs and gold buttons. They are mainly meant for the younger generation,” she said.

Gaining global experience

Fashion design has appealed to Norazeha since her schooldays. She joined Limkokwing to pursue her dream. What attracted her most was the university’s international student population.

Moonisa Luthfi, 28, drew inspiration from American pop icon Andy Warhol. She came up with a collection of colours and designs featured by Campbell soup. She used silk and tangled cotton to produce a simple A-cut gown. For effect, she made use of buttons, graphic prints and folding techniques.

“In the fashion world, you have to be creative. It is not all about sketching. You have to be good at sewing, management and gathering ideas,” said Moonisa who hails from India.

At Limkokwing, Nazarudin said the students gained a global experience that would enhance their career as a fashion designer. By interacting with international students, they exchange or gain new ideas.

“The multicultural environment on campus enhances students’ creativity and helps them to keep pace with globalisation, he added.

The event also helped the participant to acquire useful feedback from the public.