The Best Looks from OBU’s Fashion Show

In collaboration with VERGE: Story by Jack Turpen

Photos by Ella Bussa and Mary Germilhac

If someone walked through the doors of any high school in these looks, they would probably get dress-coded, but there would also be thunderous applause from their fellow students. The models of the OBU (Organization for Black Unity) Fashion Show took center stage this past Saturday, February 22, in Plachta Auditorium to celebrate the show’s 25th Anniversary with the theme “High School: Back in Session.” The clothing was nothing short of nostalgic, with waves of models representing different clicks: nerds, hipsters, rebels, preppy, athletes and popular kids. Verge Magazine staff attended the show and reported back with their favorite looks. 

This colorful sweater and beanie combo paired with the dark jeans screamed hipster. The hipster is laid back, relaxed, and willing to mix different styles, like the jersey tucked into the plaid boxers and the matching set with the flannel. 

Every single outfit Shaniya Coffee wore was amazing. The tennis outfit was a standout for many reasons; it was just such a chic take on “athlete” that stood out amongst the sea of jerseys.

Tiara Cherry, AKA Ms. Cherry, wore a black, fuzzy zip-up with leopard pants and bold, cherry-red accessories.

The shirts say it all. Jessica Porter (left) and Brooke Halfday (right) stood out in their sassy 2000s t-shirts, both capturing their attitudes in the most stylish way. 

Short skirts were consistent across every category. This first look, modeled by Dez Hill (left), is very much a “cool girl” outfit, with details like the studs on the skirt and belt adding a slight punk feel. Lauryn Hill’s (middle) outfit is simple, rebellious and hot, with a nice pop from the red belt to break everything up. Chaderra Haye’s (right) outfit is preppy and classic. The eyes jump straight to the clean white pumps. 

A few moments that were a bit less casual. DeMarco Walker’s Ralph Lauren sweater was cleverly paired with his bold “D” pendant on a chain and white collared shirt. Mackenzi Tatem had one of the cutest “schoolgirl” moments with this houndstooth sweater vest and pleated skirt. This printed suit was another big standout. The details were very striking, and the watch shone under the stage lights.

At the end of the show, the e-board came on stage in matching varsity jackets, the perfect ending to the high school-themed show. They definitely felt like a varsity team, with their captain, president and senior scene director, Cami Watkins, leading the pack.