It was like a dream come true.
Sarah Kim, a 2020 graduate of Ligonier Valley High School, showed her designs at New York Fashion Week this fall as a student at Albright College.
Her designs, which Kim describes as “Edwardian style,” made their debut at New York Fashion Week. An annual series of events held throughout most of Manhattan, the week features fashion collections from around the world that are on display for buyers, press and the general public.
Kim’s opportunity came when a faculty member at her college asked her if she was interested.
Albright College is the only first college in 2021 to have its students and alumni unveil designs on the runways at Fashion Week.
She was thrilled to be able to showcase her designs in New York. However, there was one problem.
“I was worried I wouldn’t have enough time…but I did it anyway,” Kim said.
She started in March and had to prepare her designs in May, when the judges of the fashion show decided which designs would go to New York. After she was selected, she had to complete three more episodes over the summer in anticipation of the show in September.
“It was a great experience,” Kim said.
Kim describes her designs as more “costume-y,” which ties in with her passion for theater.
I thought it was really cool and different from anything I’ve ever done. It took a long time,” Kim added.
According to Kim, she didn’t catch the design bug until 11th grade, when she copied her grandmother’s sewing pattern and started making her own clothes.
Studying fashion and costume design at Albright, Kim’s primary focus is on costume construction and theatrical costumes. After receiving her degree, she would like to return home and design theater costumes for various types of performances.
It was exciting that she was able to show me her designs in the theater capital of New York, where she has another special event on her calendar next year. She is getting married to her high school sweetheart in July.
