‘Ribbons on the Runway’ is an annual fashion show and auction to raise money for Sharsheret--a non-profit supporting breast cancer relief in the Jewish community. Hosted by the AEPhi Beta Alpha Chapter, the event laces together numerous student groups and clubs, bringing the Emerson community together for a philanthropic cause. 

Ribbons started in 2004 when the mother of an AEPhi sister passed away of breast cancer. To raise awareness of the disease, the sorority held their inaugural show in the Bill Bordy theater to a small crowd of sisters and family members. Eleven years later, Ribbons is now held at the Ritz Carlton. With a change in venue, the show is growing as well. This year's show, on April 19, was the first time the event included a live auction and a co-ed fashion show.

“The event is a little different this year,” says Lauren Amar '15, the Event Chair. “There is a lot more organization, and we are trying to involve the community more.” An a cappella group opened the festivities, and attendees were treated to an Emerson Dance Company performance during the reception.

Before student models walked the runway, Sharsheret spokesperson Deborah Stanhill talked about the prevalence of breast cancer among Jewish women. A cancer survivor herself, Stanhill’s words were poignant and motivated action. The speech reminded the audience what Ribbons is all about.

The fashion show followed featuring 24 participants, many of whom are involved in Greek life. Collections included Lily Pulitzer, Brandy Melville, and LF labels.

“It’s a spring fashion show and I wanted to reflect that,” says Leah Cumming ’16, the Fashion Chair. “It’s light, pretty, summery, and should appeal to college girls and guys. For the providers it’s a chance to display their pieces and help people find what looks best on them.”

Next was the live auction. Items organized by Auction Chair Katie Caro ’16 included Huntington Theater tickets, signed Bruins memorabilia, and a night at Paint Bar. Bids for a Burberry scarf got heated between a sorority parent and Emerson College President Lee Pelton.

The day was an overall success. Thanks to work of Amar and other committee members, AEPhi saw a $6,026 payoff, up from $5,000 a year ago. All proceeds will of course go to Sharsheret.

In conjunction with its admirable cause, Ribbons offers its organizers valuable experience in possible career fields. Amar plans to pursue a career in event planning. Cumming considers the possibility of a life in the fashion industry.

“There is a limited budget so it’s realistic to what I will have to work with in the future,” says Amar.

Ribbons on the Runway 2015 was a six-month long project. The performances and the spectacle reflected that. Pink balloons and florals decorated the Ritz halls. The live auction and fashion show looked professionally done. As Emerson students, we should applaud AEPhi for their work and philanthropic success.