Unchained OSU is a student-led organization that raises awareness about human trafficking through style and creativity, and this year’s annual fashion show did just that.
From fluid choreography to an a cappella performance that felt straight out of “Pitch Perfect,” the Unchained Fashion Show blended art, advocacy and high fashion in a way that was unforgettable.
This year’s “Celestial” theme displayed three unique categories: the stars represented innocence, the moon symbolized violence and the sun signified restoration. Each collection portrayed powerful pieces telling the story of human trafficking.
The Stars: Innocence
Stars symbolize innocence as they glisten brightly in the sky. Their formation is new, full of dreams, aspirations and energy.
Designer Sydney Peters, pictured above (second from the left), drew inspiration from metallics and monochromatic colors, using splashes of gold, silver and bronze to embody the essence of a star.
Flowing silhouettes created softness similar to the early dreams of those untouched by the darkness of trafficking.
The Moon: Violence
The moon represents the harsh reality of violence, full of craters and darkness that swallow the light. Designer Ali Rielly used chain mail to represent both the strength and resilience of survivors, using its ties to war and violence to honor what trafficking victims have gone through.
The chains are strong and rigid, while simultaneously flexible and beautifully fluid. Rielly hopes that in the midst of fear and danger, survivors won’t give up the fight.
“Sometimes we don’t realize just how strong we are until we are put into an unimaginable situation,” Rielly said. “The amount of strength and resilience that survivors have is truly inspiring.”
The Sun: Restoration
As the moon phases out, a new dawn arises, bringing warmth, hope and renewal — a radiant rebirth.
Designer Anjali Phougat, pictured above (third from the left), is a longtime supporter of Unchained OSU. Phougat has designed for the show for four consecutive years and will continue to show up time after time. Her work radiated optimism with luminous fabrics and draping layers that embodied freedom beautifully.
Phougat hopes to inspire and spread awareness of human trafficking through her radiant designs.
The journey of a survivor echoes these three celestial phases. Vanessa Juarez, resident of Overcomers on the Move — a community-based support group for those struggling in Columbus, Ohio — has a mission to empower and support those trapped in the lifestyle.
As a survivor herself, Juarez did not receive the help that she needed and is driven to show others that they are loved, beautiful and worth saving.
“I am able to use my life experience; what used to be a victim story is now a victory story,” Juarez said. “I am an overcomer. I am unchained.”
The Unchained Fashion Show goes beyond lavish garments; it uses art and creativity to advocate, educate and spread awareness for this very important cause.
Riley Thomas, Unchained Fashion Show Director, encourages reaching out to related organizations whether to volunteer or learn more. Educating yourself and others about human trafficking is crucial.
Thomas encourages others to actively engage: “No matter how much you think you know about [human trafficking], you can know more.”
Here are some organizations that attended the show and are actively fighting against human trafficking:
- Freedom al la Cart is a café and bakery that offers paid workforce services and community to human trafficking survivors
- Gracehaven provides sex trafficking prevention services and supports impacted youth
- Overcomers on the Move promotes recovery-centered life and peer support services
- Sanctuary Night offers meals, community, clothing and peer support specialists who share their lived experiences
- She Has a Name educates, advocates and cares to fight human trafficking by providing community and resources
- Trades of Hope is a boutique that supports women leading their families out of poverty with opportunities, not charity
