Shaw University’s Homecoming Festivities are numerous this year. For the second year straight, Pure Elegance will be partaking in the celebrations.
“I’m really excited. Homecoming is a much anticipated time and people from all over, including alumni, look forward to attending the show,” said Senior Bree Ellis.
In this year’s homecoming fashion show, “A Blast from the Past,” we will see the work of such a distinctive originator. Though many are hidden among the average Shaw University student daily, there are those who are successful entrepreneurs.
“I have always loved to model and the fashion industry,” said Ellis, “I saw that there was something called collegiate modeling and got very interested.” Ellis, a young entrepreneur, is a Psychology Major at Shaw and is not only the President of Pure Elegance Incorporated Modeling Troupe, but she is also the founder. Pure Elegance was initiated on Nov. 16, 2006 after Ellis’ brilliant vision was presented to and approved by the Student Activities Coordinator at Shaw, Ms. Ebony Johnson.
Ellis, whose interests include modeling, make-up, mirrors, and fashion, said Pure Elegance is beneficial to the university as well as the population of full figured women. Pure Elegance’s modeling troupe is ideal for full figured women on campus ranging from sizes 14 and up.
Ellis explained: “There have been many young ladies that have auditioned, did a few shows or practices, and left filled with confidence, and a new found sense of joy for embracing ones body. It definitely boosts self-esteem for the larger girl. Big women often don’t realize that they too can be beautiful!”
Like any organization, there are positives and negatives associated with Pure Elegance.
“Having the sentiment that I just helped a young lady love herself more and helped her realize her self-worth, has been really positive.” Ellis said.
Ellis said that the most rewarding part of being with Pure Elegance as a model, president, and founder is leaving that mark. “There has never been a modeling troupe quite like this before. We have a purpose,” she enlightened, “to build up ones self confidence.”
The most challenging component being involved with this troupe is the lack of respect received from the student body Ellis clarified: “Being called a ‘big girl troupe’ bothers me tremendously. We just want to be recognized as a positive student organization.”
On Oct. 15, 2008, Ellis insists that all come out and support Pure Elegance in the fashion show beginning at 7 p.m. After all, her favorite element of the show is walking the runway and seeing how many people are there in support of them.
In the future, those interested in becoming part of the troupe or finding out what it is all about are urged to learn when auditions are and stop by. “Come strut your stuff and show off your swag,” Ellis said. Auditions consist of dressing up and performing a small runway show.
On the whole, Pure Elegance has undoubtedly changed the scene with their flashy full figured models and exceptional leadership. Take Bree Ellis’ paradigm of a constructive vision as an example of doing something positive with your time. Do more than just leave your positive mark at Shaw University—leave a positive mark in your life. Entrepreneurial skills are crafted. You can only fail if you never try.