February 25, 2025 - Fashion department students have had a busy start to the spring semester, making the most of networking, resume-building, and hands-on learning opportunities.

Fashion design major Brielle Ohlsen '25 was named a Class of 2025 Fashion Scholarship Fund recipient for her case study MoreLove, a line of bras for breast cancer survivors. Sophia Bell '25, Sydney Page '25, and Sofia Sarzosa '26 were also named Class of 2025 Fashion Scholarship Fund recipients. Additionally, Marist was represented at both the National Retail Federation Foundation Student Program and the NY Now wholesale showcase, two major industry events. 

Fashion Scholarships

Brielle’s work was inspired by her mother, who passed away after her fight with breast cancer in 2023. Her concept used AI technology to custom-fit each MoreLove garment to the wearer.

“MoreLove is a post-breast-cancer surgery bra line designed to empower women through comfort, innovation, and inclusivity,” said Brielle. “My goal was to create a line that not only prioritizes support and function with front closures and port openings but also makes survivors feel beautiful and confident in their bodies.”

Brielle Ohlsen. Photo courtesy of Brielle Ohlsen '25.

Applicants to the Fashion Scholarship Fund must complete a case study for an existing fashion brand that fills a gap in the market. Brielle’s case study designed a line of bras that use AI technology to improve bra fits for breast cancer survivors, under the brand ThirdLove. View her case study here.

In 2024, Brielle was also awarded a Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) scholarship for her “Fight Like Her” collection honoring her late mother. The collection of dresses is inspired by the breast cancer awareness ribbon, and features details like silicone beads and an armored breastplate.

Marist students model designs from Brielle’s collection “Fight Like Her” at the Vanderbilt Mansion. Photography courtesy of Brielle Ohlsen '25.

“Fashion has the power to spark conversations and create change,” said Brielle. “With ‘Fight Like Her,’ I wanted to challenge how we perceive survivorship and loss, celebrating the women who continue to fight and honoring those we’ve lost. Every detail in this collection is a tribute to their courage.”

Brielle will be presenting her senior design thesis at this year’s Silver Needle Runway show.

NRF Foundation

The 2025 National Retail Federation (NRF) Foundation Student Program gave 12 Marist students the unique opportunity to learn what the industry has to offer and prepare for their future careers.

“I listened to retail executives from different backgrounds tell their stories,” said Eva Salvatore '27, a business administration major. “Many of them didn’t know what they wanted to do for their careers, and ended up in a completely different field than where they started. It was comforting knowing that it’s okay not to know where you’ll end up.”

Retail executives shared their stories, insights, and what they’ve learned throughout their careers. Students met with dozens of recruiters from brands like Macy’s, Nordstrom, and Kohl’s at the NRF Foundation Career Fair, explored career paths in the retail industry, and participated in small roundtable discussions.

The conference also provided close connections for participants.

“I was able to speak one-on-one with many executives, and I learned a lot about taking my career further through confidence, taking risks, and humility,” Eva said.

Five of the 12 participants are currently in the interview process with major retail brands, underscoring the importance of on-the-ground networking.

Marist students listen to the top retail executives share their experiences at the industry panel. Photo courtesy of the NRF Foundation.

NY NOW

Retail Entrepreneurship senior directors and student buyers attended NY Now on February 2, New York City’s premiere wholesale showcase, accompanied by Professor Rebecca Brown. Students spent the day shopping, but not for themselves—they were seeking the latest and greatest products to purchase for the student-run retail boutique MPorium at Marist.

“NY Now is great practice for a career in the buying world,” said Mya Randall '25, fashion merchandising major and MPorium Buying Director. “The buying team discovered multiple new vendors that would be perfect for the boutique. We knew we picked the right career to go into.”

Favorite finds included jewelry, wellness products, and accessories.

“The showcase was an incredible experience,” said Olivia Butler '25, fashion merchandising major and MPorium Marketing Director. “Talking to vendors and getting insight into the buying process was extremely valuable. One of the things I love most about MPorium is seeing every aspect of the business and how it all comes together.”

MPorium senior directors and student buyers at wholesale convention NY Now. Photo courtesy of Olivia Butler '25.

NY Now provides a dedicated space for established and growing brands to showcase their products to buyers from around the world. Hundreds of small businesses display their latest collections to buyers, who then purchase products to sell in retail stores and boutiques. Some of MPorium’s most popular products have been sourced and purchased from NY Now, like Kamaria Jewelry’s butterfly necklaces.

To stay up-to-date with fashion department events and opportunities, follow the program’s Instagram.