Photo courtesy of FLY
Florence University of the Arts encourages its students to go beyond the classroom by engaging with the local community, and establishing a creative presence in Florence. FUA creates a space for students to take what they learn in class and apply it to real life events. Often, different classes within FUA collaborate with one another to design and produce special events, giving students valuable hands-on experience and leadership opportunities.
One of the first events of the 2016 fall semester was Dressed to Kill: Crimes of Passion Against Fashion hosted by FLY (Fashion Loves You). The event showcased the collection of vintage designer and student-made pieces in FLY’s retail store at a discounted price. The event featured the theme of murder mystery and guests are encouraged to investigate the murders of fashion designers such as Versace and Gucci while enjoying appetizers and the cocktail of the evening, “Nightshade.”
Students were involved in almost every aspect of the production of the event. A group of students in the Visual Merchandise and Display class, taught by Professor Sandra Nannini, were responsible for creating a color scheme and display for the store consistent with the theme of murder mystery. The students - Megan Crowe, Amelia Boss, Samuel Frackleton, Rebecca Finn, Laura Baxter, and myself - framed portraits of the murdered fashion designers, organized the merchandise of the store, and designed the window and mannequin displays.
Students studying the culinary arts through the Apicius hospitality department at FUA also contributed to Dressed to Kill by making and serving the delicious appetizers offered to guests. They are specialists in creating original and tasty appetizers; they do so every Wednesday for AperiGanzo, their weekly aperitivo event.
Also at Dressed to Kill, guests could get their “fashion mug shots” taken by students in the Fashion Photography class taught by Professor Simone Ballerini. The mug shots included witty crime descriptions on them such as “Wore leopard print from head to toe,” or “Overdosed on too many accessories at one time.”
In addition to giving students hands on experience relevant to their classes, FUA events give students a chance to interact with local Florentines FLY is a known spot for locals to browse vintage designer collections. There’s no better way to start up a conversation with a Florentine then with fashion!
By the success of the occasion, it’s safe to say that
Dressed to Kill left its guest dying for the next FLY event!
