MSU’S TRENDUSTRY

Trendustry, founded in 2016, is the first Black fashion-based organization at Michigan State University. We believe that everyone has their own unique way of conveying a message and that no one should be afraid to show their own passion. We firmly support diversity and inclusivity, welcoming all who show an interest in being a part of our organization. Our motto, “Be PROUD and be BOLD,” helps us to stand in our creativity, allowing us to set trends and push the envelope of fashion.

Throughout each semester we host an array of events centered around pop culture. Given that fashion is represented in various facets of life, we understand the importance of showcasing all forms of fashion. Trendustry is most commonly known for our annual Fashion Shows. However, due to the global pandemic, we were unable to produce our show last year. Despite this minor setback, we’ve continued to be creative and focused on showcasing fashion in other forms. These forms can be seen through our photoshoots and other fashion related content which can be

found on our Instagram page and website.

First and foremost, Trendustry is an all-inclusive, nondiscriminatory organization. We accept all who are interested in joining. General admission members and models are always welcomed; experience in fashion does not matter. Feel free to join us on all forms of social media at “msutrendustry” or on our website www. trendustryfashion.com for updates.

Trendustry is not just an organization on campus, it’s a brand. We pride ourselves on individuality, acceptance, friendship and authenticity, amongst other qualities. Members thrive off creativity and embrace the idea of standing out. We understand that being different can be a catalyst for trendsetting. Our greatest accomplishment is staying true to our mission and creating a platform for others to showcase their creativity and passion for fashion. Here on campus, we represent fashion and pop culture, which has been heavily influenced by Black culture. It is through these components that we have become Trendustry.

WORDS: DONALD STEWART PHOTOS: BIANCA AKANI

Fashion. From bright colors and intricate patterns to dark somber silhouettes, fashion can be sexy, artistic and everything in between. From admiring the clothes to fantasizing about living life similar to the models who wear them, for many, fashion is a way of life. However, when we think of the fashion industry, it’s not often that we look deeper into the pictures on the page and fully understand the harsh realities that unfold behind the scenes. For anyone that dreams of being a part of the fashion world, it may quickly become apparent how cutthroat the industry really is.

It’s an intimidating environment where one hears “no” much more than they hear “yes.” One is often met with toxic standards of beauty and the challenge of keeping up with who has done what while gauging public response. It is far too easy to lose sight of who you are and what you really want. In an environment where brands like Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton can put their label on anything and it suddenly becomes fashion, someone entering the industry may feel like it is a competition that they will never win. While it is easy to feel suffocated by the elitism within the fashion world, for many, it is hard to imagine a world without it. Fashion can be used to not only reflect who we are, but who we want to be. Designer Ralph Lauren once said, “I do not design clothes. I design dreams.”

For many designers, the fashion industry gives them the opportunity to pursue their passion. Despite the intimidation the industry exudes, this passion behind so many creations is what makes being a part of the fashion industry worth it. Creators are given a platform to get their ideas out into the world. Through the work they

STYLE: ANNA WEBBER WORDS: ISABELLA SCHINCARIOL PHOTO: AMANDA BEARDEN & DEON NEVINS GLAM: OVYA VENKAT

present to the world, designers can work towards breaking down gender stereotypes and fashion barriers. When someone chooses to put something on, they may pick a clothing item that allows them to say what they stand for and what they have gone through without having to speak. Fashion can be used to empower people and allow them to make statements through the clothes they wear.

Working in this field can be intimidating, but it makes the taste of success so much sweeter. Fashion is constantly evolving and allows people to enter a larger conversation through an industry that has the ability to change how society views itself. And when enough designers enter into the fashion world with a shared desire for change, something beautiful can happen. Now more than ever, we are seeing strides made to make the industry more diverse and inclusive. While there still is so much work to do in fixing the toxicity of the fashion world, the opportunity to contribute to that effort makes it all the more enticing. For many designers, having the power to help people express themselves or share an impactful message through their clothes, makes the hurdles the industry throws at them not only bearable, but surmountable.