The fourth annual Re-Vamped fashion show, put on by Fanshawe's fashion merchandising students, rocked the runway on Thursday, November 26.

This was my second year designing for and attending the show, and I have to say, it has only gotten better. First of all, I'd like to congratulate all of the merchandising students that put on the show. They were incredibly organized, professional, and worked extremely hard to put on a fantastic fashion show.

The decorations and stage set-up exceeded my expectations; they were so professionally done. Hanging on the stage were nine large paintings of some of the greatest rock and roll icons like Gwen Stefani, Axl Rose, Debbie Harry, Jim Morrison, Elvis, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Prince and Madonna. The large hanging paintings were being sold for $100 and some smaller paintings done on canvas by the merchandising students were going for $75. The walls were lined with black records, disco balls sparkled from above and the speakers welcomed you in with rock and roll tunes from all eras. The exciting atmosphere surely made all guests anticipate the runway show that was about to begin.

The fundraising for the show not only came from the ticket sales, but also from door prizes, silent auctions and the sales of the rock ‘n' roll-inspired drink available at the bar- “The Stairway To Heaven.” The silent auction included various items donated by generous sponsors such as Tetherwood Spa, the Fanshawe Clothing Store and Saffron Road. Other sponsors included Rainbow Cinemas, Gift of Art and Frilly Lizard/Commander Salamander.

The money raised at each Re- Vamped fashion show goes to an incredible cause — a transitional support center located in London called “My Sisters' Place.” It is a centre for women who are homeless, or at the risk of becoming homeless due to facing challenges such as abuse, addictions and poverty. The centre offers a safe and welcoming environment for women as well as programs and services that allow these women to gain independence and get a second chance at a better life. My Sisters' Place was opened five years ago by a group of concerned women who noticed that there wasn't a lot of help available for women in need. One program in particular is called the Micro- Enterprise Program, where people can donate old and used jewelry, which is taken apart and rebuilt into beautiful masterpieces. One of the items available at the silent auction was a gorgeous necklace created through this program.

Of course, the show could not have gone on if it weren't for the main sponsor — Goodwill. The basis of the show is designers take garments from Goodwill and revamp them into something innovative and new, depending on each year's theme. A lot of people would be surprised at what incredible designs can be made out of used clothing and that's exactly what the designers did when their fabulous outfits came down the runway.

The decades ranged from the 1950s all the way to the millennium, with around 10 garments for each era. The 50s kicked off the show blasting Elvis and Aretha Franklin, and the fashions were all about crinoline, polka dots and big red bows. There were pinup style outfits, as well as Grease-inspired clothes and even something cute and flirty to go bowling in.

Then came the 60s with its funky style, and I think this must have been the favourite decade of the night since two of the final winning garments came from this era. The tassels and headbands reminded everybody of the hippie revolution, the Beatles played and peace signs were abundant. The only male garment in the show was featured in this decade and definitely got a positive response from the crowd.

The 70s brought a more rougharound- the-edges attitude with Led Zeppelin and ACDC-inspired leather and denim. There was also a Bowie-inspired bodysuit, and lots of belly tops, floral and dancewear outfits.

The 80s reminded us of the good and bad fashions of the past - acid wash, denim short shorts, pleather and tights. Cyndi Lauper and Michael Jackson played while the models showcased garments that couldn't help but make you smile. The 90s had a tasteful range of styles. Of course, there were grunge outfits- ripped jeans, plaid and band tees, but there were also a business woman attire and even a certain “puffy shirt” that I could have sworn took inspiration from Seinfeld.

Finally, the millennium came and brought glitter and glam and some fresh new designs — including the winning design of the night pictured above. Designers Cole Townsend and Melanie Vandenberg took home first prize with their garment — a brown corset, large white skirt and big gold buttons. Second place went to designer Ariana Pinder who created the solo male garment of the show for the 60s era, which included a large grey fur vest. The third place design was my favourite of the night, a funky skirt and zip-up short sleeve jacket with soft pastels and Mod- inspired feel. The fabulous designers were Shannon Summers and Courtney Natale. There was also one special prize for the best rock and roll outfit of the spectators. It was easy to see that all involved with the show were more than pleased with the outcome and the night was a huge success. Thanks to everyone who came out to support such a great cause and for showing their support for Fanshawe's fashion design and merchandising students!