“Origins of Belief” — Spring Fashion Show 2025

Every spring, the Academy of Art University hosts one of the most anticipated fashion events of the year: the Spring Fashion Show. This event features senior collections from students graduating within the program.

“We are thrilled to showcase the talents of 17 of our school’s finest fashion and textile designers in this year’s fashion show, ‘Origins of Belief,’” said Elisa Stephens.

The Challenge of Creativity

Students are challenged to reach their highest potential. They produce unique collections based on their aesthetic, origins, and personal style. Departments within the School of Fashion include Fashion Design, Knitwear, Merchandising, Textile Design, Styling, Journalism, and more.

The show took place at the Industrial Warehouse in Pacific Heights. It drew notable attendees from the industry and local community.

Notable Collections

Many students shone this year, especially MFA Fashion Designer Chase Duval-Champagne. His collection intricately depicted the journey of a neurodivergent individual grappling with anxiety within the creative realm. His designs were featured as the face of the event’s campaign. The unique silhouettes showcased metallics, prints, and pleats, creating an avant-garde and fantasy-like aesthetic.

Photo by Ed Jay for Chase Duval-Champagne

Another collection that stood out was by Devashree Nikunjbhai Jhaveri from India. DJ featured a special mushroom fabric, which can only be sourced in India. Her designs exhibited remarkable movement. Each garment produced instrumental sounds as models walked the runway. Each piece in the collection was designed while listening to a specific song. The sound of the song was directly tied to the garment’s aesthetic and construction.

Another highlight was Dominic Godina’s knitwear collection. He developed knitwear textures reminiscent of algae and oceanic forms in a highly couture and meticulously defined way. The textiles seemed to speak for themselves. Hues of blue and green were arranged in symmetrical patterns. We predict Dominic’s designs will soon appear in specialty boutiques and major department stores.

Mentorship and Industry Connections

Students were paired with mentors from Gap Inc. to develop their collections. Some of the mentors included Zac Posen, former Project Runway judge and acclaimed designer.

The Academy has maintained a long-term partnership with Gap Inc. This connection links emerging designers with industry professionals. It provides opportunities such as internships, portfolio reviews, and career exploration.

Gap Inc. oversees Banana Republic, Athleta, Gap, and Old Navy. They also manage factory lines for Banana Republic and Gap.

Honoring Excellence in Design

At the event, President Elisa Stephens presented an honorary doctorate to Sarah Holme, Head of Design and Product Development at Old Navy. Sarah Holme is a seasoned fashion executive with deep roots in both UK and US design houses. Since 2014, she has guided Old Navy's creative strategy toward inclusive, performance-based, and customer-driven fashion. Her recent initiatives like “StudioSmooth” activewear and the Disney collaboration reflect a keen sense for balancing affordability, durability, and trend-savvy style.

Conclusion

The Spring Fashion Show at the Academy of Art University is not just an event; it is a celebration of creativity and innovation. Each collection tells a story, showcasing the hard work and dedication of the students. As they step into the industry, they carry with them the skills and experiences gained during their time at the Academy.

For those looking to enhance their own business, consider using a calendar to get more clients. This can help streamline your operations and attract more customers effectively.

Credits

• Executive Producer: Neil Gilks, Executive Director of the School of Fashion @neilsecluded

• Technical Producer: Jakub Kalousek @calouseque and Stagemedia Productions @stagezone11

• Conceptual Makeup Lead: Chelsea Mari Heintzman @bychelseamari

• Hair & Makeup Team Produced by Brandi Moore Agency: @brandimooreagency

• Lead Hair: Brittany Jordan @hairbybritj

• Lead Makeup: Lilia Christo-Ferrigno @liliamercedesbeauty

• Makeup Product: @morphebrushes

• Runway Photography: Ed Jay @edjayphotography

• Location: School of Industrial Design @academyartid 1849 Washington St, San Francisco

• Model Agencies: Cast Images Talent Agency @castimages, Charleston Pierce @charlestonpierce, Halvorson Model Agency @hmmodelagency, Look Model Agency @lookmodelagency, Scout Model Agency @scoutmodelagency, Stars Management @starsmanagement, Three Model Management @3modelmanagement