Showcasing Talent on the Runway: UIW Hosts Fashion Form Function Show and Competition

On Sunday, March 1, talented fashion designers from the University of the Incarnate Word's (UIW) Fashion program and local high schools showcased their original designs at the UIW Fashion + Form + Function Show and Competition, hosted on the Broadway campus. Formerly known as the Red Dress Fashion Show, over 400 guests gathered in the Joeris Ballroom for the event, eager to see what San Antonio-area designers had created for this unique event.

This year's show theme "Anything BUT Red" challenged participants to "think beyond the obvious." The theme intentionally left room for creative interpretation, leaving opportunities to explore ranging color scales, jewel types, statement pieces and more. Designers could even take their interpretations deeper by incorporating details related to literary works, cultural symbolism, emotions, historical references, nature, etc.

From gowns to suits, florals to fur and neutrals to vibrant hues, each design was a demonstration of the remarkable talent that each aspiring designer possesses. Models were cheered on as they strutted down the runway, striking a pose and flashing bright smiles for all to see.

Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from special guest speaker Head of Design for San Antonio Shoes, Jesse Daniels. Additionally, guests were invited to make a positive impact in their community by donating cash and pet supplies to Daisy Cares, a non-profit organization created to "provide pet food and urgent or emergent aid toward veterinary care and reduce animal abuse through animal welfare education and awareness" (daisycares.com).

"Fashion + Form + Function 2026 was an absolutely electric afternoon - the energy in that room was something special," shared Lalon Alexander, PhD, Fashion Management associate professor and department chair. "Jesse Daniels of San Antonio Shoes brought an inspiring and energizing keynote that reminded everyone the power of drive and follow-through. We were also deeply moved by the generosity of our audience toward Daisy Cares."

Finally, the much-anticipated moment arrived where designs were evaluated by a panel of judges on the quality and creativity of their designs for the chance to win scholarship money. This year's winners are as follows:

UIW 1st Place: Xiana Newton with "Full Circle"

UIW 2nd Place: Maria Camila Novoa with "Caf? de Mi Tierra"

UIW 3rd Place: Amethyst Rain Ochoa with "I Prefer Black Anyways"

Most Sustainable Design: Ethan Rosselot with "Your Face in the Window" from Cedar Ridge High School

Most Marketable Design: Loewel Reyes with "Brocade Muse" from Richard King High School

Most Creative Interpretation of the Theme: Sofia Varela with "Anadyomene" from Westwood High School

Best Construction: Ava Real with "Moonlight Mist" from East Central High School.

Alexander noted that she and the rest of the show's team could not be prouder of this year's participating designers who boldly strutted on the runway, and that they are already counting down the days until the 2027 show.

In light of this year's show success, this is what some of this year's participating designers had to share:

"Participating in the Fashion + Form + Function Show was an exciting experience," said Xiana Newton, senior Fashion student and UIW 1st place winner. "I'm a senior, but it was my first time entering a garment in the show. I learned everything I know about fashion and constructing garments at UIW. It was incredibly satisfying getting to use all the skills I gained here and produce something to showcase at an event like this one. I had so much fun seeing everyone's artistry and individuality on display and their interpretations of the theme, there was a lot of amazing talent. I think that it's every designer's dream to share their vision, so I'm thankful to the fashion department and everyone who helped make it possible for giving young creatives a platform to display their work. I'm really looking forward to seeing how the Form + Function + Fashion Show evolves!"

"I have been a part of this event since my junior year of high school, and it has been such an amazing opportunity to get to see not only my growth but the up-and-coming talent of these high schoolers," said Ana Roman, UIW Fashion student. "I am beyond excited to see what the Fashion department does with this event for years to come and I can't wait to be a part of it all."