An uplifting, magical “Fashion Fantasy” with vibrant colors, stunning designs and whimsical styles strutted down the runway at this year’s Fashion Show, held April 30 at the majestic Academy of Music.

The Best of Show Award went to Kelly Davis ‘09 of Northfield, N.J., for her playfully creative child’s pirate outfit. Krystie Kocsi ‘09 of North Wales, Pa., received the Most Creative Award for her pretty yet cool children’s collection. Beautiful and colorful designs for women, children and men wowed the audience, while fashionably dressed dogs from Canine Partners for Life won their hearts.

Before the runway show started, haute couture designer and alumnus William Calvert ‘91 was awarded the 2009 Spirit of Design Award in recognition of his widespread contribution to design excellence. His graceful and gently clinging signature evening dresses and wedding gowns paraded the runway at the beginning of the show. Looking out over the audience, Calvert noted that 20 years ago he was in their place - a student designer getting ready to enter the industry. “If you dream the dream and work it,” he advised the students, “the dream comes true.”

Philadelphia University’s Fashion Show student design portion - the evening’s main event - opened with a stunning display of models dressed in red evening gowns. The annual gala showcases the best of each year’s fabulous, colorful, creative and innovative designs from students in the Fashion Design Program.