Writing Narrations for Fashion Revue

4-H Fashion Revue narrations present the 4-H'er and his/her project to the audience. The narration should introduce the 4-H'er, describe special features of the garment, and highlight interesting information about the project. The following are guidelines to help 4-H'ers write descriptions of their garments for fashion revue. Keep the narration to 100 words which will allow the member to come on stage, make one or two turns, and then exit. Keep in mind that the fashion revue committee reserves the right to re-write or revise narrations.

The purpose of the 4-H Fashion Revue activity is to:

  1. Build self-confidence and poise.
  2. Develop skills in planning, selecting, and making clothing for different occasions.
  3. Select appropriate accessories.
  4. Develop good posture, grooming, and punctuality habits.
  5. Complete applications clearly and submit them on time.
  6. Acquire knowledge and skills in planning, presenting, and participating in fashion revues.

The specific objectives of a narration are:

  1. To introduce the member and their project.
  2. To focus on skills learned in the textile science project.
  3. To express challenges, fashion trends, and cost savings.
  4. To interest the audience in 4-H activities.
  5. To display the garment attractively.

Before you begin:

  1. Analyze the garment. What is special about it? Be sure to include color descriptions!
  2. List major features you want to describe, along with a few comments that relate to the garment and how it will be worn.
  3. Study mail order fashion catalogs, magazines, the pattern envelope, and advertisements to see how they describe similar features. This is especially useful for beginning projects such as skirts that don't have a lot of details.
  4. Describe the garment by starting with the obvious, then call the audience's attention to details such as accessories that relate directly to the garment.
  5. Write. Get down all you want to say. Don't worry about the length -- yet.
  6. Edit. Polish your narration, cut out repetitious phrases or ideas. Keep sentences short and avoid tongue twisters. Aim for clear, concise phrases that create audience interest. Make it as bright, crisp, and informative as possible. The audience is there to learn about new fashion as well as to be entertained.
  7. Read your narration aloud to a friend. Does your friend know what you are talking about? Practice modeling with your narration. Do you think of other things that you might say? Re-edit and re-read.
  8. Add one sentence that talks about you, the model! Be sure to include your name and county, or city, either at beginning or closer to the end of the narration.
  9. Finally, keep the narration to 100 words. Hyphenated words count as two words.
  10. Complete your narration and personal data form and submit it on time to your regional fashion revue chair or extension agent. (Part of 4-H is learning to complete forms accurately and on time.)

Example of a Good Narration: (Remember to include color of outfit!)

This periwinkle blue, rayon challis vest is just right for dress-up days at school and other occasions. Sam Jones from Altoona chose this forest green fabric because of its year-round appeal. Notice the tucked edges and welt pockets. One of Sam's first learning experiences was matching the fabric, trim, and thread. The time spent looking for the right color sure paid off! Sam, wear your vest with pride.

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