FadWatch, a student-run fashion event at BGSU founded in 2005 by Shaneia Caldwell and Kelli Brown, will celebrate their 20th anniversary this week.
It will be held Nov. 16 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Bowen-Thompson Student Union (BTSU) Ballroom.
The 20th anniversary is a moment to celebrate the collective work and leadership of those who have been involved in the event over the years.
The mission of FadWatch is to promote positivity through self-image and healthy self-esteem by enriching students’ lives through fashion.
Caldwell and Brown said, “Fashion is a form of self-expression that comes from the inside and shows on the outside.”
The goal is to help students build confidence and embrace their unique style, while also fostering a supportive and inclusive environment within the Bowling Green community.
FadWatch’s motto, “The world is watching you, so let your fashion radiate universally,” serves as a guiding principle for the event.
It reminds participants that fashion is not just about clothing but about self-expression and the confidence to showcase one’s individuality to the world. The event encourages attendees to embrace their inner beauty while using fashion as a tool for self-empowerment.
In addition to promoting healthy self-image, FadWatch supports awareness of eating disorders and strives to help students gain healthy self-esteem through fashion and fitness.
On average, around 20 models participate in the show with multiple outfit changes throughout the event to showcase a wide range of styles and trends.
FadWatch has become a highly engaging opportunity within the student body. Students involved pass down knowledge and leadership from one graduating class to the next.
Currently, the event is organized by a board of senior students, including Treyshon Clark, Kyla Wiley, Clarke Gilchrist and Santi Reed.
“As we prepare to graduate, we seek models who uphold the standards of FadWatch and embody the values we hope to leave behind,” Clark, President of FadWatch, said. “Our goal moving forward is for the next group to continue growing FadWatch and to have the same opportunities that previous groups have had.”
For students like Brynna Rivera, a junior at BGSU, being part of FadWatch is an exciting challenge.
“I heard about FadWatch from Campus Fest. It’s a pretty big commitment, but I love it. We practice Monday through Thursday, 6:30-9 p.m.,” Rivera said.
Her involvement reflects the passion and dedication of FadWatch members who not only contribute to the event but also gain hands-on experience in event planning, modeling and fashion production.
Participants also gain opportunities to foster creativity and collaborate across disciplines.
“The skills we gain through FadWatch are unmatched. It lays a great foundation for students who want to pursue this in their careers,” said Wiley, a senior majoring in fashion merchandising. “From managing design concepts and runway coordination to marketing the event, it’s a comprehensive experience that prepares us for future careers.”
The anniversary show, themed “FadWatch’s Declassified Fashion Survival Guide: New School Edition, will showcase a fusion of old-school and new-school fashion, featuring business casual looks paired with modern accessories.
“Expect schoolboy and schoolgirl looks, with a nostalgic vibe. We’re celebrating how fashion has evolved over the years, from classic trends to modern innovation,” Wiley said.
This year’s show will also emphasize sustainability, with many of the designs featuring upcycled and thrifted pieces.
“We love to thrift for the show and place a big focus on sustainability. A lot of times, outfits and accessories are only used for one show, so we also recycle clothes and host clothing drives,” Clark said.
The event will also highlight local talent, with several designs coming from BGSU students and local entrepreneurs.
Prophetic Achievers, a local fashion brand known for its innovative and distinctive designs, is the largest contributor to this year’s show.
While FadWatch is organized by BGSU students, the event is open to the public, inviting community members, alumni and fashion enthusiasts to join in the celebration.
“FadWatch isn’t just for BGSU students—it’s for everyone,” Clark said. “We’re excited to welcome the wider Bowling Green community to our 20th-anniversary event and celebrate fashion, creativity and collaboration together.”
Tickets will be sold at the door for $15 or purchased presale for $12 in the BTSU Nov. 12 to 15 from 12 to 3 p.m.
