(from FrolicHawaii.com 5/3/16 – Amanda Stevens)

The Fashion Design and Merchandising Program celebrated 50 years of UH Manoa’s Senior Fashion Shows on Sunday night at Kennedy Theater. More than 500 attendees viewed collections from two seniors, eight juniors and 11 alumni designers including Matt Bruening of Matt Bruening designs, Terilynn Okimura of Volto Couture based in New York City and Joelle Perry, owner of a custom bridal gown business.

The two senior designers symbolized the wide array of aesthetics that have come through the venerable program.

Moses Gouveia, a graduate of the HCC Fashion Technology program, created a collection that is soft and feminine, inspired by the beauty of Manoa Valley. The rainbow hue swimsuits were his standouts.

Kari Begay channeled her inner adventurer and interest in motorcycles to create her collection. She dreams of building a brand that will provide riders with classic wearable clothing on the open road.

Here are highlights of the evening, shot by photographer Lyle Amine.

Hopefully this 50th anniversary milestone will bring more attendance, attention and funding to the Fashion Design and Merchandising program.