The Vyrtigo Third Annual Springwalk Fashion Show, held in Davenport Dining Hall at Yale University, was an experience that pushed the boundaries of traditional fashion presentations. The show, organized by Yale’s undergraduate fashion magazine, Vyrtigo, featured a diverse range of styles, from urban wear to formal wear, and even included a category dedicated to Salvation Army finds. The event showcased the creativity and sometimes questionable taste of student designers and models. One of the most talked about segments of the night was the inclusion of models in revealing, see-through underwear, a moment that elicited gasps and shrieks from the audience. This daring display blurred the lines between a traditional fashion show and a more provocative, Naked Fashion Show.
The show was divided into categories like Urban Wear, Casual Looks, Interview Wear, Nightlife Fashion, “Going to Bed” Clothes, Formal Wear, and a unique Salvation Army clothing section. The latter, according to emcee and Vyrtigo editor-in-chief Laurel Pinson ’02, cost a mere $30 to outfit all the models. This juxtaposition of high-end fashion and thrifted clothing created a unique dynamic, highlighting the versatility and accessibility of style. The inclusion of near-naked attire in a college setting sparked controversy and conversation about the evolving definition of a naked fashion show.
Local New Haven businesses sponsored the event, with clothing provided by stores like Archetype, Bottega Giuliana, Raggs Fashions for Men, and Seychelles. However, many of the most memorable outfits came from the models’ personal wardrobes or the Salvation Army collection. One standout piece was a vibrant orange and black cheerleading sweater with a prominent “W,” demonstrating that style doesn’t always require a high price tag. This resourcefulness further underscored the DIY spirit of the show and its willingness to challenge conventional notions of a naked fashion show.
The models themselves were a highlight of the evening. Alyssa Frederick ’02 was a standout, captivating the audience with her presence. Sidra Bell ’01, Ayodope Anise ’01, and Amma Hewitt ’03 exuded confidence and grace on the runway. Bell, known for her assertive teaching style at the Payne Whitney Gym, brought the same energy to her modeling performance. The models’ confidence and willingness to push boundaries contributed to the overall atmosphere of a daring, almost naked fashion show.
However, the most memorable, and perhaps infamous, moment of the night belonged to Blair Golson ’01 and Jeremy Klapperman ’01. Their appearance in extremely tight, see-through underwear, with Klapperman twirling glowsticks, sent shockwaves through the audience. This bold display of near nudity solidified the event’s reputation as a truly naked fashion show, pushing the boundaries of what was expected and sparking debate among attendees.
The musical accompaniment for the show was a mix of genres, including Deelite, the Squirrel Nut Zippers, Fat Boy Slim, Madonna, Janet Jackson, and popular hip-hop tracks. While the mixing was criticized, the eclectic soundtrack reflected the diverse styles showcased on the runway. The music, however, often took a backseat to the commentary from the audience, who provided their own running commentary on the outfits, ranging from enthusiastic praise to scathing critiques. This lively audience participation added another layer to the already unconventional naked fashion show.
Ultimately, the Vyrtigo Springwalk Fashion Show was more than just a display of clothing; it was a cultural commentary, a statement of individuality, and a challenge to established norms. The inclusion of near-naked models in a university setting pushed the boundaries of what constitutes a fashion show, blurring the lines between art, performance, and exhibitionism. The event left a lasting impression, solidifying its place in Yale’s history as a truly unique and unforgettable naked fashion show.
