Annual Benefit Fashion Show set for April 22

Photo by @benefitfashionshow on Instagram

Model sign-ups went live on Jan. 17.

The annual Benefit Fashion Show will take place on April 22 at 7 p.m. under the theme “Happily Ever After.” The Benefit Commission released model sign-ups on Jan. 17.

“We’re still in the early stages of planning, but it’s coming along well,” co-head commissioner Haley Marks said. “The commission has really come together to work smoothly.”

Along with Marks and co-head commissioner Avani Kongetira, the commission consists of seniors Kate Hsiung and Eva Ruemmler and junior Michelle Wan.

The commission has chosen to donate all of this year’s proceeds to Planned Parenthood, a national nonprofit supplying sexual and reproductive healthcare and education. While the choice of charity could come off as controversial, the organizers were adamant that Planned Parenthood was the right choice.

“With the repeal of Roe v. Wade over the summer, we thought it was especially important to highlight safe options for women to get the healthcare they need,” Marks said.

The established themes — Fun in the Sun, Vintage, Country Club, Streetwear, Cultural, Design Your Own, Bromance, Girls Night Out, Music Festival and Prom — will be joined by two new themes, Y2K and Sleepwear.

The ticket prices have also increased from previous years: $25 for regular and $40 for VIP privileges. Marks attributes the cost change to lackluster sales last year that landed the commission “in the red.”

Despite financial challenges, Marks is optimistic that the show will be a success this year.

“Now that we’re fully out of the pandemic, I’m hopeful that participation will return in full force,” she said.