“The Scorpio”
2013
Model: Alexis Coats
Photographer: Candace Moore
A traditional prom dress can generally be worn only once; therefore, the purpose of the design was to create a prom dress that is versatile and suitable enough to be worn to various special occasions. The design represents the astrological Scorpio sign. She is unafraid and filled with passion. Leather was chosen for its striking attributes, and the silver color was selected for its luster. For cutting, patterns were strategically altered and cut slightly so that no leather was wasted.
“Urbane Rebel”
2013
Model: Alexis Coats
Photographer: Candace Moore
The wrapping of gifts is such a way that a two-dimensional plane may be folded into a three-dimensional figure, particularly the rectangular prism, acted as the main inspiration to create a women’s winter cape. Flat, arbitrary shapes, including half circles and zigzags, were incorporated into the design to further the idea of geometry and to operate as functional details. Two overlapping half circles developed an arm opening.
“Eco-Pop”
2012
Model: Allison Mayes
Photographer: Candace Moore
The purpose of the design is to promote environmental awareness by creating a modern wearable dress using recyclables. In addition to other recycled materials, including glass, metal, paper, and plastic, the dress is constructed primarily of can tabs, which I selected for their interesting shape, smooth texture, and size, features that make them excellent material for application as sequins on apparel.
"Ring a Ding Ding"
2011
Model: Monde Echun
Photographer: Li Fan
Geometric shapes have been a major influence on the designer's artworks; in this design, a cluster of paper towel rolls was the inspiration. The design was completely developed on the form in one piece muslin, starting with the placement of a true bias drape at the right neck, and then draped to the sleeve, chest, underarm, skirt, to the left side seam. A hidden strap was added for the reinforcement of one shoulder design.
"The Dragon Empress"
2010 Model: Allison Mayes Photographer: Carmen Wilson The purpose is to introduce the art of Nanjing yunjin, or brocade to the west, by creating an evening gown using solely Nanjing yunjin fabrics. Nanjing yunjin referring to beautiful brocade, delicate and silky as if clouds, was crafted in Nanjing for more than 1,500 years. In 2009, Nanjing yunjin was selected by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization for the list of Intangible Heritage. |
"Open Your Heart" 2009 Model: Kendal Kinslow Photographer: Job Ruzvidzo Go Red™ style show promotes awareness of women’s battles with heart diseases. Heart shape was chosen as the theme and red was chosen as the color of the design. The title of the design was used to encourage others to open their hearts for those in need. |
"Fembot"
2008
Model: Stephanie Montes
Photographer: Li Fan
To translate the rectangle shape into women’s wear, creating a fitted cocktail dress that comprised of various sized rectangles is the purpose of the design. Since geometric shapes have been a major influence in women’s wear, the rectangle shape was chosen as the inspiration of the innovative design.
"Red Hot Tamale"
2002
Illustrator: Mr. Steven Stipelman
Model: Julie Lively
Photographer: Johnathan Reynolds
The art of functional item for the home – specifically, the cotton coil hot pad – was the source of inspiration for this contemporary women’s special occasion dress. The primary challenge in designing, pattern drafting, and constructing the dress was to created coils that were three-dimensional, yet followed the curves of the body.