Strutting Through History: SpelHouse Homecoming 2024 Fashion Show Celebrates The Evolution of Black Style & Culture

By: Ima Essien, Rori Stewart, & Micheala Miller 

The excitement was palpable in Forbes Arena, as hundreds swarmed to watch the annual SpelHouse Homecoming Fashion Show themed Victory Strut Thursday, Oct. 24. It showcased the Atlanta University Center (AUC) models, dancers and designers with the collaboration of the AUC Agency, Morehouse’s Campus Alliance for Student Activities (CASA)and Spelman’s Programming a Unique And Lively Spelman Experience (PULSE). The opening performance of the  Black national anthem, “Lift Every Voice & Sing” filled Forbes Arena with immense pride of Black American history by the audience of peers, family members and the AUC Agency. 

The theme of Spelhouse Homecoming, “Going For Gold,” honored the 1996 Centennial Olympics, held in Atlanta. 

“We had to incorporate black evolution with the Olympics. We tied it in together and made the Victory Strut a travel through time but black history,” AUC Agency co-president Amira Ali, said. 

The show displayed four acts evolving from the ‘30s, ‘70s and ‘90s to the modern day via dance, clothing and music. To introduce the acts, a short film starring student models and actors encapsulated historic moments in Black history, including Jesse Owens’ success in the 1936 Olympics. In Act One, models walked in a variety of apparel such as suits, long coats and pleated skirts in contrast to the bell bottoms and disco outfits of Act Two.

During the intermission, the AUC Agency showcased their official dancers and selected students to showcase their outfits and struts. 

Throughout Act Three, models flaunted baggy pants, graphic tees, denim overalls and jerseys as ‘90s rappers and singers played in the background, while Act Four showcased current fashion trends such as streetwear and denim on denim. 

“We've spent hours and hours putting into this, so it was like amazing to see everyone just loving on it,” AUC Agency model Autumn Brooks said.