WVHS newspaper fashion show back on the runway

The runway was back on Thursday, as WVHS fashion designers put their work on display outside the High School for this year’s Newspaper Fashion Show. The annual, highly anticipated event featured 29 bespoke garments; each created using newspaper as its main component. The challenge was to create garments inspired by Disney characters and the theme Happily Ever After, and the students worked hard throughout May to get their fashions catwalk ready.

See a gallery from this year’s fashion show after this story.

Each piece included folded and layered newspaper, along with other materials including Papier-mâché crowns and accessories, cardboard spikes, pieces of broken mirrors, folded photography, salvaged children books, and handmade paper roses. Thanks to a fortuitous break in the weather on an otherwise rainy day, the delicate styles stayed dry and so did the students (from more than 15 classes) who lined both sides of the runway, along with family members of the designers and models.

“This year’s fashion show was a huge success,” said WVHS art teacher Kristen Spano. “From designing to performing, these students can do it all, and I could not be more proud of them!”

Ms. Spano would like to thank everyone who helped make the event such a success. Kirk Thomas’ communication class provided the music and videography. Rocco Manno’s set builders created the stage, balloon arch, and anchors. KC Burtello’s class styled the models’ hair and makeup. Nancy Colgan’s floral design class created decorative floral arrangements. Terry McLoughlin’s yearbook class and students from the art portfolio class chalked out the colorful runway. Eddie Avila’s criminal justice class provided security and helped parents to their seats. Noreen Hansen’s Meistersingers performed the national anthem. Special thanks to WVHS Building & Grounds staff for providing the bleachers, and to WVHS administration for its support.

See a gallery from this year’s fashion show after this story.

The following students participated in this year’s annual Newspaper Fashion Show:

And… junior Zach Nagamatsu, who created Ms. Spano’s “Mad Hatter” top hat!