Dancing lights and electronic music filled Kimmel Center for University Life as a diverse group of people celebrated the Asian Cultural Union’s 31st annual fashion and benefit gala. The show was titled “Asian Cultural Expressions: ECHO” and took place on April 11.
ACU allowed people to give back to the community by donating the proceeds from the event to the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention.
The show’s fashion presentations featured collections from brands such as Superdry, Zoa Limited, Pull-in, Maison Jules, Spectre & Co., Dahlia Boutique, Carson Street Clothiers and Artisan de Luxe, among others.
Outfits included cocktail dresses with metallic textiles, silky jumpsuits and casual short dresses. The collections featured black-and-white color combinations in addition to vivid hues such as bright pink and yellow mixed with shades of blue.
Floral prints proved a must-have for this season and were printed on everything from shorts and shirts to sunglasses.
For the men, tailored classic suits in gray with pops of color in pink, blue and green were popular. The best way to accent these pops are with print socks, bandanas or ties. The military jacket with pastry color boardshorts and a pair of comfortable sneakers presented cool and casual looks.
Key pieces included see-through fabrics and loose garments, which are an excellent way to stay fashionably fresh during the spring. Additionally, pantsuits proved to be a great way to maintain comfortable without compromising style.
During the show there were captivating performances by rapper AWKWAFINA and the audience-pleaser Dumbfoundead.
Many of the sponsors gave away coupons and raffles to members of the crowd. CAS junior Jessica Shoo said she appreciated the event’s purpose.
“I found it wonderful the way students united for a beautiful cause and their ideas for an organized event,” Shoo said.
Steinhardt freshman Jonathan Tsou said he was surprised by the fashion show.
“From the models to the clothing and also the staff, everything was very professional and well put together,” Tsou said.
The crowd applauded as the ACE team took their bows, marking the end of a successful evening and signalling a sure continuation of their charitable tradition.
An version of this article appeared in the Monday, April 14 print edition. Benny Seda Galarza is a contributing writer. Email him at [email protected].