Fashion Show On 'The Dark Side'

By The Tampa Tribune
Published: October 15, 2008

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TAMPA --

Jefferson High students invited their classmates to come to the dark side at the International Fashion and Retail Marketing Academy's annual fashion show on Oct. 9.

A mix of gothic, punk and vintage designs, "Experience the Dark Side" involved about 60 students doing everything from picking outfits at Anchor Blue in Brandon and La France in Ybor City to creating bold makeup statements and applying faux green eyelashes to models.

"We're trying to make a statement," said Jean Acosta, 17.

Last year's event raised about $500 for the magnet program. Porter Cusmano, the academy's director, said the show isn't only a lesson in responsibility and a glimpse into the business of fashion, but it's also a great high school memory.

Jamie Pilarczyk