September 10, 2023 — Albright College marked its comeback at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) on Saturday, September 9th, with an eagerly awaited runway fashion show. Following the tremendous achievements of the past two years, Albright College, renowned for its nationally ranked Liberal Arts-based fashion design, merchandising, and costume design program, proudly presented the innovative designs of five graduates and one current senior on the prestigious runways of NYFW.
Freddy Diaz
The show opened with Freddy Diaz‘s collection of artfully combined floral elegance and playful polka dots, including an opening look of a floral pleat neck tank top and terra cotta pleated wide-leg trousers. He introduced a charming floral tie-front top and a polka dot camp shirt with floral shorts. The standout was a timeless terra cotta wrap halter maxi dress, inspired by Diaz’s Dominican Republic heritage and New York City.
Susan Benitez
The following collection, by Susie Benitez, aka “Susie Buttons,” seamlessly blended contemporary elegance and timeless charm. Her collection featured vibrant pieces like a yellow jacquard floral blouse with a dirndl skirt, a green floral halter top with capri pants, and a striking blue floral jacquard camisole top with feather-trimmed cigarette pants. The centerpiece was a floral jacquard bustier top dress with detached blouson sleeves and a full ballgown overskirt.
Jasmin Burton
Next came Philadelphia native Jasmin Burton, whose collection radiated effortless style and creativity with versatile pieces, including a retro cut one-piece swimsuit layered under a lavender chiffon, ruffle-tiered negligée cover-up.
Nicholas Kedge
Returning designer, Nicholas Kedge followed with an avant-garde collection of short dresses with cut-out details, racer front and back designs, and unique pom-pom ornamentation. His designs showcased a fusion of traditional patternmaking with hand-draped elements.
Victoria Aquino
Queens native Victoria Aquino then presented grace and creativity with unique touches like a sleeveless bustier maxi dress with hand-painted detailing. The pinnacle is reached with a high-collar trumpet-sleeve white lace wedding dress, radiating ethereal beauty.
Zyaire Valentine
Senior Zyaire Valentine closed the show with bold textures and styles—standout pieces like a yellow skirted ball gown with a black hologram tuxedo overcoat. The final look was a black hologram plaid taffeta coat paired with a hot pink taffeta asymmetrical ballgown, showcasing Valentine’s bold approach to design.
This remarkable event served as a testament to Albright College‘s unwavering commitment to fostering emerging talent and pushing the boundaries of fashion creativity. The audience at NYFW was treated to a mesmerizing showcase of diverse perspectives, innovative designs, and groundbreaking concepts, underlining the institution’s pivotal role in shaping the fashion industry’s future.