Looking back at NUFS 2025: Northumbria Uni’s answer to the Met Gala

As the new academic year kicks off, the perfect time to try out new activities, we’re taking a look at one of the biggest society-run events of last year.

Back in April, Northumbria University Fashion Society (NUFS) hosted their second annual charity fashion show, firmly cementing itself  in the Newcastle student nightlife hall of fame alongside favourites like Fight Night and Blinkers.

Following the success of the previous year’s show, the event once again took over Northumbria University Students’ Union’s Domain with over 400 students in attendance. The NUFS team doubled the amount raised for charity from its debut, splitting an incredible £7,500 between The OddBalls Foundation and Breast Cancer Now.

NUFS was founded last year by president Emily Sutton after attending a similar event at Durham University, recognising the Toon deserved something just as fun, inclusive and community driven:

“I couldn’t believe we didn’t have something similar for our own students, so I thought – why not start one? It felt like the perfect way to bring people together, create something exciting, and raise money for incredible causes at the same time.

“What makes our show special is that it’s not just about the clothes; it’s about the community of Northumbria – students from all backgrounds stepping out of their comfort zones, trying something new, and having fun in the process.”

Inclusivity was a huge part of the show’s ethos. Although organised by Northumbria students, modelling applications were open to Newcastle students too with 38 undergraduate and postgraduate students selected from over 100 applicants. 

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NUFS Vice President Mya Bickers-Brown explained “We wanted to be inclusive of both universities and have a mix of people included from different societies, sports teams, it wasn’t a case of experience or being ‘model material’.”

Alongside the main event, the committee seeked to raise awareness of the chosen charities throughout the year. The NUFS team attended training sessions with Northumbria Rugby Union and Women’s Lacrosse to inform the teams of the risk factors for testicular and breast cancer. They also organised a 5k fun run – with participants baring all in their underwear (over their clothes, of course).

Society treasurer and charity ambassador Jessica Haslam explained why the team chose to fundraise for The OddBalls Foundation and Breast Cancer Now:

“I felt it was important for us to help fund vital research and provide support for those affected by these cancers. It’s incredibly important to NUFS to not only contribute to the ongoing fight against these diseases, but also to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms that people should look out for. 

“Early detection can make a huge difference, we hope to encourage more people to check in with their health and also reach out for help if they are concerned.”

Another new feature this year was the mini podcast series developed in the run up to the show.

Mya spoke about this new addition:

“We wanted to make our social media more personal and interactive, so we recorded a podcast introducing new committee members as well as testimonials from the outgoing team.”

Other guests on the podcast included this year’s host DJ Chris Shaw (who you’ll know from MVP) as well as DJ and ex-Northumbria student, Ross Clough who kept everyone dancing until the end of the show for a second year. 

For those who weren’t ready to call it a night, the fun continued at The Holy Hobo for the official afterparty.

Since launching in 2023, NUFS has raised over £10,000, and plans for the next show are already underway with even bigger and more exciting elements in the works. Students interested in fashion, fundraising, or even just a great party are encouraged to get involved.

President Emily reflected on the impact of NUFS:

“I still can’t believe that in just two years, we’ve managed to raise over £10,000 for some amazing charities. It’s been such a rewarding journey which has shown just how powerful student-led initiatives can be. I could not have done it without my fabulous team beside me.”

Interested in getting involved with the next show? DM @nu.fashionshow on Instagram.