THE NEW VCFS
For the past 24 years, the Queen’s University Vogue Charity Fashion Show has been an annual celebration in the Kingston community. The arrival of early spring means the cold wins die down and VCFS rises up.
If we journey back to the beginning, we can recall VCFS’ earlier performances being held at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts, seating approximately 565 guests for one night. Two decades later, and VCFS’ 2020 performance was held at the Kingston Grand Theatre, seating almost 800 guests per show, for three consecutive nights. Every year, VCFS challenges its former glory by creating a new theme to centre the next spring performance around. What’s more, each year VCFS ups its expected charitable donation.
Thankfully, time has been kind to VCFS because we have proudly raised over $500’000 for local Kingston charities! We strive to maintain our reputation as one of the best sources of entertainment, not only for Queen’s University students, but also for the entire Kingston community. By combining all facets of fashion, the arts, and philanthropy in order to raise money for a deserving charity in the Kingston area, each year we hope to provide students with the opportunity to showcase their creative talents and for ambitious leaders to take action, all while functioning as a symbol of social responsibility.
Though we continue to work hard to uphold our duty to our community, we also stand united through an irrevocable love for art. We have and continue to believe that when Queen’s students from all over join hands, anything is possible. The following pictures are some former VCFS themes, dating back to 2014.
This year, everything has changed. COVID19 has altered VCFS entirely, but the show will go on. We are currently hiring several positions, some of which include model intern, photography intern, stage intern, choreographers and more. Though we have made several adjustments in order to adhere to safety protocols, we encourage all to apply. We can’t wait to work with you! This year is going to be unlike any other and that is nothing short of exciting!
Apply today at: https://www.voguecharityfashionshow.com/apply
Our 2021 creative directors, Anika, Erin and Lyba have been hard at work since May and promise that though this year’s show is going to look different, the new VCFS will still deliver an inspiring performance that is a reflection of our hardworking, innovative and unstoppable student body.
A message from our Creative team- Anika, Erin and Lyba:
Though COVID19 has forced many changes on VCFS this year, how does creative intend to ensure the show is just as strong, even without a stage?
Rather than viewing the challenges we are facing this year as obstacles, we are using them as opportunities to take the show in a different direction than it has gone in past years. We are working closely with all portfolios to ensure that the calibre of our show is maintained, and we know that the creative leadership of all members of our team will accomplish this. This year, we are prioritizing collaboration amongst all exec members, and have already been blown away by the outside the box thinking that has been displayed.
What do you want the VCFS 2021 identity to be comprised of?
We want people to view this year’s show not as one that was hindered by COVID, but enhanced as a version of VCFS that has never been seen before. We are confident that the VCFS 2021 identity will exceed expectations and give the audience a show unlike any other. Our team has already come up with so many incredible ideas that we are beyond excited to showcase!
If you had to describe this year’s show in 3 words, what would they be?
Innovative, inspiring and interconnected.
Can you describe how socially distanced photoshoots are working this year? What does the process look like? What has changed from previous years?
A majority of our shoots have already been completed, using the remaining summer weather in order to conduct them outdoors according to current public health guidelines! We asked models who would be available and comfortable to participate, and ensured that all team members wore masks while inside. We also maintained distance while outside, and got creative with posing to ensure safety.
How was COVID altered the creative process? Has it brought the creative team closer?
COVID altered our creative process by making us constantly consider alternatives based on different stages of the pandemic. We were forced to be a lot more flexible in our planning, but the circumstances also provided us with direct inspiration for our theme and have allowed us to really explore unconventional avenues when coming up with a show format.
When the year is all said and done, what do you want VCFS 2021 to be remembered for?
One of our main focuses this year is bringing people together and breaking barriers that have held people back in the past! We want to create a space that allows diversity to flourish in all its forms, and allow all individuals to feel heard and empowered. Although VCFS has not lived up to this standard in the past, we are committed to ensuring that these are solidified as lasting changes that become a part of the organization moving forward!
Here at VCFS, safety is our top priority! Though we intend to execute all photoshoots for the year on campus, we are doing so while following the safety protocols and guidelines set in place for us. Social distancing measures are being practised at all events and gatherings. We will not let COVID19 slow us down but we will keep everyone safe, at all times. Photoshoots will be released very soon, but here is an exciting sneak peak of what’s on the way!
We welcome all to apply for the applications that remain open. Deadlines are fast approaching, so if you do wish to be apart of our team, we encourage you to fill out your application today!!
CONVERGENCE lies ahead, and we are so excited to explore the new VCFS with open minds and hearts.
If you have any questions about VCFS or the application process for your chosen role, feel free to reach out via Facebook or Instagram!
Mikayla Bergamin // Press and Media Editor
Featuring Anika Ines Bousquet, Lyba Nasir & Erin Healy // 2021 Creative Director’s