A Moment in Time: Annual Fashion Show Captures the Fluidity of Creativity

The Montclair State University Fashion Design and Merchandising program is preparing to unveil its highly anticipated annual juried fashion show, titled “A Moment in Time.” Making its way to the runway this April, the event serves as a premier showcase for the technical skill and artistic vision of students across all levels of the program.

This year’s theme, A Moment in Time, explores the profound idea that time is a constant force of movement and change. The show is designed to be a space of “distortion and discovery,” inviting the audience to step out of their daily routines to pause and appreciate the unique creativity unfolding before them. From the foundational techniques of introductory courses to the complex silhouettes of advanced draping, the runway will reflect a wide range of styles that challenge and redefine contemporary fashion.

Behind the scenes, the event is a masterclass in professional execution, produced and promoted by the ARTX400: Fashion Show Promotion class under the guidance of Professor Seth Howard. These students are responsible for the intricate orchestration of the show, gaining hands-on experience in event management, marketing, and the fast-paced world of fashion production. The runway will feature works from a diverse group of creators, including students from:

• ARTX 120: Intro to Apparel Construction
• ARTX 226: Intermediate Apparel Construction
• ARTX 322: Flat Pattern
• ARTX 422: Draping
• Independent Designers

In a significant addition to this year’s program, the show will debut a special collaboration with Rocky’s Closet, a Montclair State University initiative that provides free professional attire to students. A dedicated segment of the show will feature curated looks styled entirely from Rocky’s Closet merchandise. This partnership highlights the university’s commitment to accessibility and demonstrates that professional style is achievable for every student.

The stakes for the evening are high, as a panel of three distinguished industry professionals will serve as the year’s juried judges:

• James Volpe – Principal of White Sneaker Consulting
• Jenni Lee – Fashion Stylist & Brand Consultant
• Utkarsh Gupta – Assistant Product Developer & Designer at Golden Touch (Private Label & Walmart Specialist)

In addition to awards granted by the judges for design excellence, the evening will also see the presentation of academic scholarships to talented students within the College of the Arts, celebrating their hard work both on the runway and in the classroom.

A Moment in Time will take place on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Memorial Auditorium on the Montclair State University campus. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the show commencing at 6:00 p.m. Pre-sale tickets are available for $12, or can be purchased at the door for $15.