Gloucester County Institute of Technology’s (GCIT) cosmetology department presented its 11th annual Fashion Around the World Show on Feb. 25, with students modeling outfits that celebrated traditions in other countries with contemporary accessories and designs.
Assistant Principal Gregory Wright opened up the event with a speech. Wright, who has worked alongside the cosmetology department for years, noted the stigmas surrounding cosmetology students.
“Our students not only learn how to do hair, skin and nails, but students are taught patience, kindness and to be nice,” he explained. “We must treat each other with dignity and respect.”
The age range in the cosmetology department is 15 to 18, emphasizing the creativity of young minds.
“They’re young adults trying to make their way in the world,” Wright said. “The fashion that they will present to us are their creations, and they’ve done a wonderful job.”
Wright then introduced the cosmetology department staff at the show: Advisor Doreen Mansini and teachers Katie Arnold, Antoinette Terpolilli, Dale McIntyre and Natalia Donapel, dubbing them the “fab five.”
As attendees watched the show, they enjoyed international cuisine provided by GCIT’s culinary arts department to complement the around-the-world theme. Dozens of student models walked the makeshift runway in the auditorium, sporting fashion by their peers, hair and makeup designs.
After each modeling, judges who were mostly GCIT cosmetology alumni deliberated while the audience gave monetary donations as votes for the people’s choice award. This year’s winner was the Bahamas look, modeled by Makenzie Murray. Student Ava Petroski styled the model’s hair and Riley Barnhardt did the makeup.
Part of the donations will go to Wigs and Wishes, a charity that provides hairpieces for cancer patients.
The judges selected Norway as the third-place winner. For the look, Angeline Holbrook modeled, Jaylah May Israel was the hairstylist and Carly Kahlbom was the makeup artist. The look representing France took second place, with Cameron Ferrari as the model, Bailey Bonsted as hairstylist and Lexi Nguyen on makeup.
The overall winner of this year’s show was Greece, with model Carolyn Carnovsky, hairstylist Olivia Kauffman and makeup artist Emma Cama all honored.
To watch the full fashion show, visit GCIT’s website at gcit.org
