This past Monday night was anything but ordinary for our Advanced Culinary students from Slaton High School! They had the incredible opportunity to volunteer at Food in Fashion, an exciting event hosted by the Texas Restaurant Association Lubbock Chapter. It wasn’t just a night of delicious food and dazzling outfits—it was a chance for our students to gain hands-on experience and make meaningful industry connections.

Chef Kelly proudly accompanied culinary stars Alexia Anderson, Hope Rinas, and Halle Ashley as they stepped into the vibrant world where food meets fashion. Each student was paired with local restaurants, allowing them to work side-by-side with industry professionals, learn new techniques, and witness firsthand the fast-paced energy of a large-scale event.

The event itself was a feast for the senses, blending the creativity of Texas Tech fashion designers with the culinary artistry of Lubbock's finest restaurants. “Food In Fashion,” hosted by the Lubbock Chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association, is a delectable, glamorous evening on the runway that combines both food and fashion. The event pairs 11 student designers from the Department of Design at Texas Tech University with 11 local Lubbock restaurants to create runway-ready looks that are one-of-a-kind, made out of food and products from the actual restaurants. It’s one haute night!

This year’s participating restaurants included: Caboose, Adventure Park, River Smiths, Teddy Jacks, Funky Door, Stella's, Orlando's, Nashwell Cafe, Triple J's, Picoso's, and Escondido Grill. Doors opened at 6 p.m. with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and an array of delicious food, followed by the highly anticipated fashion show. It was truly the event of the year!

For Alexia, Hope, and Halle, it was more than just volunteering. It was about networking, learning, and being inspired by the talented chefs and designers around them. Events like these remind us that culinary arts aren’t just about what happens in the kitchen; they're about community, creativity, and connection.

We’re incredibly proud of our students and grateful to the Texas Restaurant Association for hosting such an impactful event. Here’s to more nights where passion, food, and fashion collide!

Wow!  It’s a great day to be a Tiger!