“The Process” showcases Music City fashion scene

Last night, Lipscomb’s Fashion Department revealed their newest exhibition. “The Process: A Journey Through Nashville Fashion” highlights local brands and designers, who worked with Lipscomb students to create a one-of-a-kind exhibit in the Beaman Library.

Seven designers and makers are featured alongside Lipscomb students, showcasing work that ranges from artisanal jewelry to knitwear. They were each paired with a fashion student to organize and install their display.

Avry Earnshaw, a sophomore fashion design major, was chosen to work with Jenn Ward and the Tractor Supply Company brand. Their exhibit featured the new Tractor Supply Company x Molly Yeh collaboration. Earnshaw was wearing a pair of overalls from the collection, which was gifted to her at a Q&A panel last night.

“I’m going to stay in touch with them, and see where it goes,” smiled Earnshaw.

“The Process” reflects the strong connections Lipscomb has with Nashville fashion brands. These connections are increasing: creatives from all over the country are moving to Nashville, which is home to a growing fashion industry. 

“A lot of people don’t know that the Nashville fashion scene is growing immensely,” says Gracie Royalty, a sophomore fashion merchandising and interior design major. “It’s the place to come. People are leaving L.A. and New York to come to Nashville for fashion.”

Royalty knew she wanted to study fashion when she came to Lipscomb. She started a vintage clothing brand a few months into her freshman year, which she sells out of Lipscomb’s fashion truck.

Lipscomb fosters success in fashion, both as a creative art and a real-world industry. Students benefit from professional experience and connections outside of class.

Adah Gowdy, a senior fashion major, helped curate two exhibits during her time at Lipscomb, including Dolly Parton’s on-campus showcase in 2023. She currently has an internship with Annie Masarie, a master patternmaker whose work was featured in “The Process.”

“It’s really cool to see the representation, and all the different little factors,” Gowdy said about “The Process.” “It doesn’t just show the big brands or the big designers; you get to see all the people that go into the process. Freelance artists especially.”

Last night’s launch was a celebration of the hard work Lipscomb students put into their exhibition. After a networking event and a Q&A panel with the designers, the fashion department invited everyone on campus to a student gala.

For two hours, Lipscomb students of all majors flooded Beaman Library to experience the showcase, Nashville-style. The “Giddy-Up Gala” was complete with line dancing lessons, a cowboy boot decorating station and a swing dancing performance by Gowdy herself. 

The dress code? Black tie, boots and bling.

“The Process” will be on display in the John C. Hutchenson Gallery until November 16.

Featured photo taken by Arlie Akers.