As the strings of red and pink hearts were pulled down from the chandeliers and the rose petals were swept away, there was not a sense of sorrow in the air. Instead, there was one of accomplishment.

The last two hours had been the climax of months of work for Student Apparel Design Association members.

The "I (Heart) Fashion" show, which was attended by parents and friends of the student designers, opened its doors and runway Saturday evening at The Temple Club, 500 E. Grand River Ave. in Lansing's Old Town.

The white folding chairs and high bar tables that lined the runway were quickly filled, leaving many people standing in the balcony for the sold-out show.

Models strutted each elaborate creation down the runway to music selected by each designer to set the mood. Electronic music kept the beat as the colors and styles for fall 2004 fashions flashed before everyone's eyes in the twists and turns of tweed, fur, silk and lace.

Applause from the crowd only grew when each designer was featured on stage following his or her collection. MSU designers' fall fashion tips featured variation in color, style and femininity as neon fabric, faux fur and vintage style were masqueraded in skirts, jackets, shirts, pants and dresses to astonish and please the eye.

Although friends and family were sure to appreciate the extended time and effort placed into each garment, the designers also received the true recognition they deserved from the judges.

Association members were recognized for going above and beyond in making the garments and put together the fashion show in an awards presentation. Select designs and collections were awarded for uniqueness, "wow factor" and construction.

Lori Faulkner, an instructor of human ecology and a judge at the fashion show, announced and explained each of the awards. She and the other judges recognized apparel and textile design junior Sarah Pilotto for the Best Construction award based on sewing, fit and tailoring. Pilotto's collection was themed "A weekend trip to New York-I (heart) Everything Red" and featured both casual and formal attire with crimson fabric and accents.

"The collection for this award is above and beyond with exceptional finishing," Faulkner said. "We're talking about what is behind what you can see from the runway."

As The Temple Club staff transformed the main room from a New York-style fashion show to a nightclub atmosphere, the night's events were still sinking in for many designers, whether over dinner and celebration with family or in anticipation of a night of dancing with friends at the after party.

"Everything turned out great," said Tracy Rinaldi, the association's executive board president, as the room cleared. "I was really impressed."