Snazzy, snappy and savvy, UDress magazine held a coming-out party and fashion show in November to celebrate its fall issue—for, by and about UD students.

The event included displays and demonstrations by boutiques, salons and businesses in the region, as well as prizes, live entertainment from local bands and complimentary refreshments.

A raffle benefited Dress for Success, an international nonprofit organization that promotes the independence of disadvantaged women by providing them with professional attire and a support network. At an accessories drive, those attending the UDress pre-party were invited to donate gently used jewelry, handbags, scarves and other accessories to the organization

The highlight of the evening gala was the runway show, organized and produced by students, in which area boutiques showcased their fall merchandise, using student models.

Founded in 2006, UDress is created by a fashion-based student organization. Heather Lumb, CHEP ’08, a fashion merchandising major with a minor in journalism, is president and editor-in-chief of the magazine, and she works closely with publisher Natalie Bartos, BE ’09. The magazine is printed at the University’s Graphic Communications Center.

“There are about 100 students working on the magazine. We start before school opens when the writers come up with ideas and story maps. What I look for are features that are cutting-edge and new,” Lumb says. “As the deadline approached, I had the busiest and craziest week of my life.”

UDress magazine provides opportunities for members to use their talents in many ways. The editorial side involves fashion reporting and writing; publication involves promotion, advertising, publicity and finance; the magazine’s look requires photographers, artists and layout designers. As a result, members represent a variety of majors, including fashion merchandising and apparel design, English, journalism, art, business and communication.

Bartos, a marketing major with a minor in international business, says working on UDress has been a valuable and hands-on learning experience.

“When I first started, I felt a little uncomfortable dealing with businesses and clients, but now I really enjoy it,” she says. “The magazine, the pre-party and the fashion show are a way for businesses to become known to UD students and others on campus, and I work with [Delaware] boutiques and businesses from Greenville to Rehoboth.”

For more information on UDress magazine, go to [www.udressmag.com].