Students Model the Latest Styles During PHS Prom Fashion Show

The annual Prom Fashion Show hosted by Portage High School’s Health Occupation Students of America organization is more than just a fashion show. HOSA hosts this event to raise money not only for its own organization, but also toward a charity of choice. This year, the group decided to raise money for the Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis, Ind.

“Our organization claimed to help Riley Children’s Hospital as our class mission at the beginning of the year, so both of the HOSA classes decided to come together to raise money for that hospital and the patients that come from all over the state to that single hospital,” HOSA president Jasmine Marquez said.

Along with a ticket cost of $5 to enter the event, there was also a bake sale and 50/50 fundraiser to contribute to the charity fund. Companies donated dresses and tuxedos for the models to showcase. Each company was eager to advertise the latest season’s fashions as well.

Louie’s Tux Shop of Portage, Paris House of Bridal and Fashion of Michigan City and Dunhill Tuxedo of Merrillville were all companies that contributed to the Prom Fashion Show’s wardrobe. Each company brought out the latest prom attire for spring 2013 season. Thirty-two dresses were donated to this year’s show.

“Over all the dresses were just really unique and I think my tux from Louie’s was just awesome. I really loved it and I’m definitely going to use it for prom. Plus, it was the first time I’ve ever wore a tux. I just had to show up and look good; which I did,” model Nick Jordan said.

Although the models were an important factor in the fashion show, there was more that went into the event then what meets the eye. The HOSA organization has been working hard preparing for this day since November, until the first show started at 6 p.m.

The HOSA program developed a planning committee made up of the presidents and students of both the morning and afternoon HOSA classes. The students came together and made a to-do list of all their priorities to get the job done. Students called vendors and did their best to get the word out. All of the students promoted the event by making announcements, commercials and placing fliers throughout Portage High School.

“I think the energy of the HOSA planning team, the board, the presidents Geoff Marcott and Jasmine Marquez really spearheaded the group in leadership abilities and got people assigned into the right places. Their support is what really got the show done,” HOSA sponsor Lynn Wilson said.

Click here for a full photo gallery of the Prom Fashion Show!