A pair of models pose for cameras at the BSA Fashion Show at Mason on March 29. (Jalynn Kirabo / Fourth Estate)

The Black Student Alliance built off an elemental theme to highlight black fashion and culture

BY BASIL MUSTAFA, STAFF WRITER

The Black Student Alliance (BSA) combined flowing, colorful fabrics, a range of musical genres and fine-tuned choreography for their 2026 fashion show titled “Elemental Roots of Style” on March 29.

The show was directed by sophomore Mechanical Engineering major Starr Davis, who modeled in last year’s show. Embroidery and handmade designs accentuated strong pieces that told a story through flowers, fire and water to mimic the natural elements.

To start the event, models gathered around the runway in all black and struck poses as an emcee laid out the expectations for the show. After a short interpretive dance, the intro to The Weeknd’s “Dawn FM” played as models exited the runway in preparation for the rest of the performance.

The show began with a pair of models in black and white dresses adorned with an assortment of flowers. With an umbrella in hand, the model in white spun behind the model in black as a shower of red rose petals fell to the runway.

The energy picked up as the music shifted to afrofusion and a theme of general greenery. One highly accessorized model leapt across the runway wearing a knitted fishnet top followed by another in an all-green dashiki.

As heavy punk rock began to play, five models walked out, each alongside someone dressed in a red hooded cape. The hooded models surrounded the others before they all made their way off the runway.

A fire and brimstone motif was set ablaze with music that was tempered with more bass and distortion. A model in a wedding dress and red veil walked the runway with a model in a white suit shirt, fur boots and red threads. Their poses were done in quick succession to a raucous crowd.

F1lthy’s producer tag played in unison with the entrance of two models, one wearing a black tux with a red sash and the other sporting a black and red kurta. Their movements were synchronized as they stepped to the beat of “All Red” by Playboi Carti. 

Homage was paid to the late Luci4 as his song “Hey” played during the walkout of a model with an all-black fit.

Although the models began to recycle, the energy and outfits remained palpable. By the time the fire and brimstone section came to an end, the crowd was fully involved. 

During intermission, attendees themselves participated in a best dressed competition. Afterwards, two models began a bridal-like procession. One wore a red and white embroidered tuxedo and the other wore a dress and blue tophat.

A model poses on the runway during the oceanic theme at the BSA Fashion Show on March 29. (Jalynn Kirabo / Fourth Estate)

The show transitioned to an oceanic blue section, and accessories and jewelry shimmered in the reflection of the stage lighting. Models wore statement blue fabrics and walked to “Rock the Boat” by Aaliyah. 

The show ended with a brown, earthy theme. The highlight of the section featured a model wearing a brown dashiki paired with a partner wearing a short, ruffled white dress.

A model wears earthy tones for the elemental theme at the BSA Fashion Show on March 29. (Jalynn Kirabo / Fourth Estate)

Davis said that the fashion show was “one of the greatest leadership experiences [she’s] had” and that she built a familial connection with everyone involved with the show.

She also talked about her experience as a model at last year’s BSA fashion show and how that inspired her to direct her own show. 

Davis added that she really loves “Earth and all the different elements” and she incorporated different dance pieces because of her passion for dance.

“I really wanted to see if I could make my own personal visions happen,” Davis said.