The University of Connecticut’s Modelverse took viewers out of this universe and into the Model Verse. The organization hosted its first fashion show on Monday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom. It was the club’s first ever fashion show, and the energy in the room radiated with the smell of fun and the feeling of confidence.
The show’s theme was to showcase confidence, and the models did that and much more. Models showed looks from seven brands, including Selfmademaverick, fitsforthekulture, Amanda, State of Mind, Flight Girls, bluemenclothingand Royal Clothing. Each brand contributed a distinct style, ranging from bold streetwear to more refined and statement pieces. Some looks leaned into vibrant colors and textures, while others embraced minimalism.
The atmosphere felt electric and was filled with support, excitement and a shared appreciation for creativity. With the central theme being confidence, that concept was not only seen in the clothing but also embodied by every individual who participated. Each model brought their own personality to the runway, proving that confidence is not a one-size-fits-all, but something that can be expressed in countless ways.
For many, stepping onto the runway was an act of self-expression, and in some cases, personal growth.
“So, we had one practice a week…we started off with an icebreaker, and now all the models are really friends which made it easier when we did group work,” said Modelverse President Dayna Mbugua. The confidence theme also came alive through the community and togetherness that was crafted behind the scenes.
Music pulsed through the ballroom, guiding the pace and energy of the show. The audience played an equally important role in shaping the experience. Cheers erupted when familiar faces took the stage and applause followed standout looks. Even during intermission, selected groups showcased the runway walk, with Group A as the crowd-selected winner. The sense of community in the room was clear, as students came together not just to watch the show, but to support one another.
A particular brand that has been consistently supporting UConn’s fashion scene, especially through its pop-up shops, is Flight Girls. Flight Girls is based out of New Haven, Connecticut and for about nine years has been curating looks from the 80s, 90s and 2000s scene.
“We’ve kinda already been doing this, so it just feels natural,” said Amber Jackson, the owner of Flight Girls, when reflecting on the brand’s continued presence in student and fashion culture locally.
Jackon’s remarks illustrates the broader theme of the evening, as Modelverse’s first fashion show brought together designers, models and students in one space to center both confidence and creativity. The event marked the club’s debut runway showcase and drew upon strong audience
engagement through the evening.