At ONE®, we're all about making safer sex ed and condom use cool and engaging as possible! That’s why we partner with schools, organizations, and communities across the globe to spread awareness and get people talking about the importance of safer sex practices in a way that’s informative, but never boring. And let’s just say—we’ve seen some amazing collaborations along the way! Condom couture is definitely an all-time favorite.
One of our recent favorites? Our partnership with the University of West Florida, where we joined forces for an unforgettable Greek mythology themed Project Condom fashion show.
Who knew the gods of Mount Olympus could inspire such jaw-dropping designs and creativity? From Medusa-inspired condom headwear to latex designs fit for Perseus himself, the artistry and passion behind every piece were incredible. It’s safe to say the show was a total masterpiece and we’re still in awe of the energy, artistry.
We asked our friends at the University of West Florida to help capture the event vibe, and they were kind enough to answer some questions, read what they had to say below!
What inspired you to choose a Greek Mythology theme for the condom fashion show, and how did it shape the designs?
We try to involve our students whenever we can, so we let them choose! At the beginning of the semester, we sent out a poll asking for themes. We got suggestions, and when we put it to a vote, Greek Mythology was the clear winner, which was no surprise. After all, our university's mascot is the Argonaut, a heroic figure based in the Greek tale of Jason and the Golden Fleece, so their choice could not have been more perfect.
What was the biggest challenge in bringing these creative concepts to life, and how did you or your team overcome it?
"The biggest challenge in bringing the design to life was figuring out how to make something that can move while also staying together. We wanted something that had a lot of natural shapes and didn't feel stiff. Condoms are an unusual medium, so it was also pretty tricky figuring out how to color them and attach them, but we pulled it off." - Student Participant
"Another challenge was making a base for the condoms to be put on. My team and I first tried to wrap duct tape with the sticky side around myself, then put duct tape with the sticky side outwards, but that didn't work. We just did the sticky side outwards and then got the condoms to stick on me that way." - Student Participant
"A memorable moment for me was everything. It was a whole new experience, and I never expected to be walking down a runway, especially not in condoms. It was also cool to see all my friends come together to watch and support me." - Student Participant
How did attendees respond to the safer sex education aspect of the event, and what impact do you think it will have on campus?
One of the activities we included this year was a game where students had to put the steps of using a condom in the right order from consent to disposal. And we partnered with several groups like our campus clinic who provided healthcare information, our local health department who provided free HIV testing, and a local sex shop who provided an atmosphere where students could see and ask questions about products that they may want to know how to safely use. We surveyed our students after the event, and nearly 70% of the respondents stated that they felt more comfortable discussing safer ways to have sex, most noting that they learned more ways to prevent pregnancy and STIs. The impact that an event like this has on a campus is that it removes the stigma around talking about sex and encourages students, whether they decide to be sexually active or not, to be an active agent in their own sexual health.
What was a particularly memorable moment from the night that really stood out for you?
The highlight was definitely all of the amazing outfits our students created! Who knew that you could use condoms to make the snakes of Medusa's hair, the wings of Icarus, or the trident of Poseidon? It was extraordinary to see the details and the work they put in to make something new and exciting out of a very unusual art medium. More than anything else, it was their talent that shined brightest that night.
Did you all meet your intended goal? Any plans for future events?
Our university has been doing this event annually for a few years now, and we don't intend to slow down. We met our goal, and already, students who attended this year's event have expressed interest in wanting to be one of our designers for next year. We've already received dozens of suggestions for next year's theme, but you'll just have to check back in with us again next year to find out.