Delta Sigma Pi to hold fashion show

In the interest of inventing a better business suit, Delta Sigma Pi business fraternity will host a fashion show 6:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Grand Hall of the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center. The fashion show will feature fashion trends within the corporate business arena. \nThe show’s business-dress theme was inspired by a need for a more cheerful, creative and stylish corporate business workplace. Dina Karibayeva, the show’s co-director, came up with the theme after an internship last year in which she was forced to constantly wear the same old “boring” suit, she said. \nThis year’s fashion show is an attempt to boost the interest in and attendance rates at Delta Sigma Pi events, said Lisa Pairitz, the show’s co-director. She said they want the business-fashion aspect to be taken seriously.\n“Classic styles for the business sophisticate are the type of styles we are going for in the fashion show,” Pairitz said.\nThe collections will feature red and black as the most popular colors. \n“A lot more is being accepted as fashionable in the business world as far as color and style are concerned,” Pairitz said, “so we are trying to stay away from the classic black and white suit.” \nJunior Jillian Heckmann, a member of Delta Sigma Pi, is one of the models and volunteers for this year’s show. Heckmann is glad that this year’s event is not “boring” like past events, which usually included a speaker, she said.\n“You are in lectures all day to begin with, and the last thing you want to do is hear another speaker giving you yet another lecture,” Heckmann said. “It’s boring and no one wants to go.” \nThe show will also feature a mocktail party beforehand for all the attendees. This event is designed to allow students and professionals to mingle and improve their networking skills.\n“I think it’s an awesome networking opportunity,” Heckmann said. “Socializing in that type of setting is very relevant and this particular event was appealing to the fraternity.”\nThe show will feature pencil skirts, button-down shirts and jackets, among other outfits provided by Express, one of the retailers featured in the show. Express is also providing accessories, which will include big belts and chunky necklaces.\n“(The outfits) are business-appropriate, yet lighthearted, sexy and modern,” said Marisa Wise, manager of Express in College Mall. \nThe show will feature professional and business-casual attire from Express, The Limited, Macy’s and Goody’s Family Clothing. Admission is free and open to all students.