Skulls, snakes, bats, knives and guns–along with soft, classic stones–made up the strikingly rich jewelry display at Malverde on Thursday evening. Hosted by Joanna Latham in downtown Austin, fashion mavens got a chance to try on interesting and exquisite jewelry. Turkish-born Alp Sagnak, a designer based in New York, warmly welcomed guests and shared about his creative work.
Sagnak fuses classic Ottoman Empire jewelry with edgier designs. Each unique piece is crafted by hand; no two pieces are the same. Inspired by the duality of the human psyche, some of his pieces embody a magical, gothic air while others emanate refinement and beauty. One cannot help but want to wear any one of Sagnak’s pieces, whether it’d be a mermaid or a delicate stone, for they will not go unnoticed. Sagnak’s boutique is located on Spring Street in SoHo, New York.
Fashionably Austin is excited to offer the official DVD of the 2011 University of Texas Fashion Show, “Innovation”. The video, filmed and produced by Fashionably Austin will feature backstage preparations, highlights from the end of the runway, the Orange Runway and the exhibition. Also featured will be the exciting individual student collections and the winners of each fashion competition from the graduating fashion design class.
Order your official University of Texas “INNOVATION” Fashion Show DVD Online NOW!
A portion of the proceeds benefit the UT Fashion Group. Shipment in 2 – 3 weeks.
Here’s a look at the University of Texas designers in their finale walk.
Meet the 2011 University of Texas Fashion Designers
Sophia AlBanna
Hometown: Houston, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: cOUture ARchiTecture
My passion for mixing various textures of fabric inspired my collection. My collection focuses on movement and the specific placement of pieces through the use of chain, lace, and the natural fibers from silk and leather. Silk chiffon, dupioni silk, silk crepe and two shades of silk burlap are all incorporated. I worked with three thicknesses of leather, all of which are part of the neutral family. Additionally, the beaded lace I used adds a sheer and ornate touch when the garments are seen from the runway.
Recognition: One of the winners of “most creative design” for the Co-Op dress design competition.
Internship: After graduation I will be an assistant designer for an interior decorator here in Austin, TX for the months of June and July. Then, in the fall, I plan to live in New York for a semester and intern in the fields of either styling or fashion design. After getting experience in these two fields of design I will hopefully begin my career in the one I am most passionate about!
Favorite Desigenrs: Elie Saab, Marchesa, L.A.M.B., and Christian Louboutin
Christopher Pham
Hometown: Plano,TX
Major: Textile and Apparel Design
Collection: At the Races
I’m a rower at the University of Texas at Austin and my inspiration was the prestigious rowing regatta, The Henley Royal Regatta, held in Henley England. I also was inspired by traditional English Bespoke Tailoring. For my collection, i tried to use the highest quality of fabrics that include a great silk/wool blend, a fine washed white linen and a beautiful navy striped twill wool. My collection is for the man that is sophisticated, athletic, and respects tradition and hard work.
Recognition: First Place at theNeiman Marcus Fashion Illustration Competition at the Dallas Career Day Fashion Symposium, 2010
Internship: Ralph Lauren – Men’s Purple Label, Black Label, Polo Tailored Clothing
Favorite Designers: Ralph Lauren, Thom Brown, Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs, Michael Bastian
Dhanny Indrakusuma
Major: Textiles & Apparel Design
Collection: Pepperland
My collection was inspired by the South Korean ceremonial dress, the Hanbok. I incorporated several design elements from Hanbok into my garments; such as the fullness of the skirt and the asymmetrical bow to produce a fresh and unique design that is also marketable. In my collection, I combined my pieces with military-inspired outerwear to give it a modern look. I dyed the fabrics with sun-blocker coating to protect both the garments and the wearer from the harmful effects of the UV Rays.
Internship: Stephanie Merzon / Austin, TX; Jessica Ciarla / Austin, TX; Working at Texas Performing Arts’ Costume Shop
Favorite Designers: Karl Lagerfeld, Marc Jacobs, Christophe Decarnin and Vera Wang.
Gillian Courtney
Hometown: Detroit
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Ensō “Ensō
The name of my collection is
a Japanese word meaning circle. This collection was an exercise in creating designs through various interpretations and manipulations of the circle.
Favorite Designers: Rei Kawakubo, Yohji Yamamoto, Ann Demeulemeester
Jessica Bird
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Modern Gem
I took inspiration from lingerie and gemology, which is evident in the muted jewel tone color palette and design lines delineated by contrasting piping and binding. I used brushed silk charmeuse, 3-ply silk, leather, poly crepe, and cotton monks cloth. The result is a modern twist on current silhouettes for the feminine, sophisticated, independent woman.
Internship: Vogue Stylist/Contributing Editor Tabitha Simmons and Joey Showroom / New York City ; Chloe Dao / Houston, TX
Favorite Designers: Max Azria, Alexander Wang, Elie Saab, Helmut Lang
Angela Saenz
Hometown: Austin, TX
Major: Austin Textiles and Apparel
Collection: Apparel Design Electronica
The inspiration for my collection began with the concept of wanting to design clothing not just for a woman of today, but for a woman of tomorrow. I was very interested in exploring uses of new technologies in fashion, including digital printing and incorporating electroluminescent lighting in garments. Using these ideas, my collection became very futuristic and geometric in nature. I also enjoyed juxtaposing structure with softness, vivid colors with dark colors, and woven fabrics with knitted fabrics. My fabrics, which include silk charmeuses and crepe de chines, silk/wool blends, and a modal/cupra knit which I ordered from Japan, were very key in helping me achieve the looks I desired.
Recognition: 2nd Place in the Bridal Competition at Dallas Career Day 2011; One of four student designers awarded Most Creative in the University CO-OP Private Label project – Fall 2011
I was inspired by romantic silhouettes that had a dreamy and ultra feminine look to them. I wanted to create a collection that was elegant but at the same time soft and playful. I used mostly cotton and polyester blends that were easy to drape and created both structured tops and flowing bottoms. When I picture the type of woman that would wear my collection I picture a woman who is sophisticated but at the same time very young and fun. The woman that usually came to mind was someone like Country music star Taylor Swift.
Internship: Linda Asaf Design / Austin, TX and Stephanie Merzo / Austin, TX
Favorite Designers: Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg, and Hannah MacGibbon from Chloe
Megan Mehl
Hometown: El Paso, TX
Major: Marketing and Apparel Design
Collection: Retrospective
My collection is a series of colorful dresses inspired by the bold fashions of the late 60s and early 70s. The theme of the fashion show is “innovation”, so I decided that I wanted to work with transformative garments–each dress changes form with the use of tiny magnets in order to be worn in at least two different ways. Throughout the process, my collection evolved as I also became inspired by the beautiful silk and wool fabrics that I found and by the transformative nature of the garments. This is my first chance to put my clothes on a runway, so it was important to me to make the clothing fun and dynamic. My collection was designed with a modern Edie Sedgwick in mind as my muse. She is young, charismatic, fun-loving, and fearless. Selected as part of a small group of students to participate in a pilot honors course program in New York this May, during which we will attend seminars with industry professionals and collaborate on a special project.
Internship: Design & PR with local designer
Favorite Designer: Galliano
Lindsey Wetesnik
Hometown: San Antonio
Major: Textile and Apparel Design
Collection: Birds of a Feather
My collection is inspired by my time in London and Kate Middleton’s classic style using chiffon, ruffles and feathers with an internal corset.
Internship: La Petie Salope / London, England
Favorite Designers: Monique Lhuillier, Vera Wang, and Giorgio Armani
Noelle Alyssa Garcia
Hometown: Katy, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Lolita
Lolita is about bold colors and a feminine look. I used silk crepe de chine and silk chiffon and digitally printed my own fabric for my collection. The ideal woman for my collection likes classic pieces but still looks young and feminie.
Recognition: Private label scholarship from UT Co-op to create a Game Day dress.
Internship: Miguelina / New York City and Herff Christiansen / Austin,Tx
Favorite Designers: Diane von Furstenburg, Gucci, BCBG Max Azria, Robert Rodriguez
Kalgari Ferris
Hometown: Conroe, TX
Major: Textiles & Apparel Desig
Collection: Steampunk Panache
My collection is all about steampunk-inspired couture. Each of my fabrics are of exceptional quality and include silks, leathers and cottons. All garments are lined with high-quality bemberg lining to maintain breathability. Each piece was designed as a statement of pride and empowerment. The woman who would wear this garment would be proud of herself, her accomplishments, her individuality, and her own appeal. She would be strong and confident and she would know just exactly who she is and what she wants. These garments would be an outward expression of her own inner strength.
Recognition: Creativity Award for the University Co-op Game Day Dress Design Competition;
Up and Coming Designer in Tribeza Magazine
Internship: Linda Asaf Design / Austin, TX
Favorite Designers: John Galliano, Betsey Johnson, and Vera Wang
Britni Whittington
Hometown: Longview, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Today’s Vintage
I am inspired by past fashion eras and wanted to design something that would have the look and feel of vintage clothing, but could be worn by today’s woman. The first fabric that inspired me was an off-white netting with a vintage look and is in every piece of my collection. The kind of woman who would wear my collection is someone who likes to go out after work and needs a versatile outfit that can dressed up or down with accessories. So whether she’s going to a job or just attending a casual lunch with some close friends, my customer would feel fashionable and comfortable.
Internship: Celestino / New York City
Favorite Designers: Chloe, Marc Jacobs, Rodarte, Chanel
Heidi Mashaka
Hometown: Austin, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: The Honeymoon Collection
My collection was inspired by late 1950′s Hawaiian Resort Wear. I want to go into the bridal industry after graduation and wanted to find a way to promote my collection to brides after their big day. I was inspired by the swimwear of the era which can be seen in both sundresses as well as the high waisted shorts. The collection is vintage inspired with modern relevance and appeal.
Recognition: Honorable Mention in the University Co-Op Dress Competition, Fall 2010
Internship: Erica Angeline Bridal / Atlanta, GA
Favorite Designers: Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, Oscar de la Renta
Briana Gardner
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Ethnic Eclectic
For my collection I chose to work with a variety of denims from chambray to bull denim and stretch denim. I also designed my own print on a lightweight cotton voile which serves as the focus of my collection. The type of guys and gals who would wear my collection are free-spirited and easygoing and love to mix fashion with fun. I was deeply inspired by ethnic fashion and folklore meshed with eccentric cuts and shapes. The print I designed was inspired by the Japanese lantern flower which represents good fortune and blessing.
Internship: Michael Faircloth / Dallas, TX
Favorite Designers: Marc Jacobs, Dries Van Noten, Band of Outsiders, Thom Browne and Alexander McQueen
Rachel Brady
Hometown: Liberty, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Texturize Your Closet
I was inspired by textures well as how they can be contrasted with an opposite texture. My collection is designed like a wardrobe with each piece working together in such a way that a lady can effortelssly wear any bottom and pair it with any top. I found a slubby tweed like fabric and wanted to contrast it will a soft silk along side a gold sequin fabric, creating interesting looks that a person might not normally wear together.
Internship: Linda Asaf and Stephanie Merzon / Austin, TX ; Assistant with Chicka~d / Austin, TX
Favorite Designers: Marc Jacobs, Prada, Lisa Bruemmer for Anthropologie, Miu Miu, Lanvin and Moschino
Daniel Guinn
Hometown: Tyler, TX
Major: Texas Apparel Design
Collection: Rio Bravo
My collection was insprired by classic movies and famous actors from the past. I used a yellow crepe wool in all three of my designs, which ended up presenting a few challenges but came out well. All three of my designs incorporate hidden pockets. The two menswear designs have what I call the “girlfriend pocket”, it’s a pocket in the back of the jacket with a zipper that is only accessible by someone else besides the wearer, i.e. your date. Everytime I go to a formal event my date hands me three items; a cell phone, an I.D. or credit card, and some kind of make-up product. This “girlfriend pocket” allows her to put her stuff in a pocket that she can access without having to ask the wearer of the jacket and keeps the man, who usually has already planned his pocket allocations, from having overstuffed pockets, which can be uncomfortable and just looks bad. The womenswear design has a hiden pocket in the bottom of the jacket that is for shoes to allow a woman to carry the shoes after a formal event while wearing more comfortable shoes.
Elise Romero
Hometown: Austin, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Through the Forest
My inspiration came from vintage photos and was inspired by all the things nature has to offer. I designed my collection for a whimsical type of girl who’s not afraid of an adventure. In a few of my pieces I dyed my own fabric as well as gave it a surface design known as “”burn-out”". It gives the fabric a contrasting texture of sheer or silky spots.
Recognition: UT Co-op Dress Competition Winner
Favorite Designers: Rodarte, Rachel Roy, Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren
Abigail Rodriguez
Hometown: Austin, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Field of Love
I took my inspiration from a quote I heard in church, a few months ago – “Love is like a fire running free in a field, you cannot stop it.” My Spring collection is designed for women in their late 20′s to mid 40′s and is classic and traditional with a country vibe. I used different types of suedes with a lot of silk fabrics as well. My collection has eco-friendly aspects including the use of non-toxic paints and fabric dyed with tea.
Recognition: Fashion Group International Dallas Career Day – Dress designed for Little Red Dress Competition was featured in Fashion Show
Internships: Worked with various fashion shows dressing models, welcoming and seating guests, and creating stage design and production.
Favorite Designers: Jason Wu, Ralph Lauren, Dolce&Gabbana, Nina Ricci, Derek Lam, Oscar de la Renta
Miranda Ward
Hometown: San Antonio
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Wine Country Fashion
My inspiration for my collection was wine country and classic silhouettes like the tunic and and polo. I used the colors of wine (red, pink, and yellow) and increased the saturation for the fabrics in my collection. I used color blocking as an interpretation of the popular wine flavors like merlot, pinot grigio, and rose. I chose to use silk charmeuse for my main fabric in all my pieces because I wanted my garments to be classic and wearable, but also be feminine and make a woman feel pretty.
Internship: Moody Mamas and Nordstroms / Los Angeles
Favorite Designers: Max Azria, Diane Von Furstenberg
Meghan McCabe
Hometown: Richmond, TX
Major: Apparel Design
Collection: Wild At Heart
My collection is a blend of italian knits and recycled crochet pieces, designed for the Fall. Every piece can be dressed up or worn as is. It is comfortable, yet has a girly flair. I was influenced by Missoni (Italian knitwear designer) and brands like Anthropologie and Free People.
Recognition: The University Co-op Private Label Competition – Most Marketable Design
Monica Salem
Hometown: Pflugerville, TX
Major: Apparel Design
Collection: Icing
My designs are all about the female, and to me the word feminine brings to mind soft colors, most importantly pink, delicate and soft looking fabric, for example the stretch lace, micro suede, fur, and stretch velvet. Also, the form of the female body, which I have accentuated using darts, padding, and figure conforming patterns.
Favorite Designer: Jeremy Scott
Colton Gerard
Hometown: Pflugerville
Major: Apparal Design
Collection: Heritage
The inspiration for my collection came from the need to create a collection for a man by a man. I wanted to design something incredibly masculine because I’m a man in a women’s industry, and I am very proud of that. I drew a lot of inspiration from World War 2 uniforms and bags. The heavy use of leather and top stitching used during that period are greatly incorporated within my designs. I took those elements and added a touch of the outdoors and a bit of hunting to give a more current feel to the collection. I looked at Harrison Ford in Indiana Jones as a muse because I wanted to design for a man that was adventurous and daring, but was also charming at the same time. I used fabrics and materials that reflected the outdoors such as duck cloth, wool, buffalo nickels, jute roping, deer antler, and dock rope to create garments that had an inherit American feel to them, hence the title “HERITAGE”.
New York Fashion Week is always a great place to see the most fashion forward shoe designs – some we can wear, and frankly, some that not even the models can wear safely down the runway! The Fall 2011 Collections featured classic boots and pretty pumps as well as futuristic platforms, there’s definitely something for every shoe fanatic.
Boots, always popular for Fall, were seen in many different lengths and heels. There were lace-up knee high boots on the runway for Tracy Reese, along with menswear inspired black patent high heeled oxfords. Narcisco Rodriguez also featured flat calf boots with a lace up back in black and gray. Ankle boots and booties are also sure to be Fall staples.
Feminine styles are also popular, with strappy peep-toe pumps featuring platform and stiletto heels on the runway for Mackage. Jill Stuart gave us a pair of chunky high heels adorned with a coppery bow and flower design, which could easily transition from a day at the office to an evening out. Other heels great for a night out or formal occasion are the bronze and black rhinestone adorned stilettos featured in the collection from Binetti.
While many collections featured classic shoe styles, others went with more dramatic, artistic, and futuristic looks. Chris Benz featured high platform ankle booties reminiscent of a Monet painting and black and white platforms with realistic smoky images. An updated zebra print was seen in high platform ankle booties and platform t-straps for Nanette Lepore, along with metallic platform mary janes.
Whether you’re looking for stylish boots or platform wedges, you’re sure to find what you need at their convenient downtown Austin location or shop from home on their website.
Each year, the University of Texas Fashion Show is attended by over 5,000 people! And this year will be no exception as Austin’s fashion community comes out to support twenty-three creative and talented fashion designers who will be show-casing their first collections at the Frank Erwin Center on Thursday, April 21. We’ll be introducing you to the designers you’ll see on the runway next Thursday night.
LIVE WEB CAST on www.FashionablyAustin.com Thursday night at 8pm. Sponsored by University Co-op.
Order your official “INNOVATION” DVD Online
Fashionably Austin will also produce an official “Innovation” Fashion Show DVD with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the University Fashion Group. The DVDs will be on sale on our web site and can be ordered at our booth at the University of Texas Fashion Show.
Meet the 2011 University of Texas Fashion Designers
We’ll be introducing the UT Fashion Designers to you all week. Check back to see the latest profiles.
Sophia AlBanna
Hometown: Houston, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: cOUture ARchiTecture
My passion for mixing various textures of fabric inspired my collection. My collection focuses on movement and the specific placement of pieces through the use of chain, lace, and the natural fibers from silk and leather. Silk chiffon, dupioni silk, silk crepe and two shades of silk burlap are all incorporated. I worked with three thicknesses of leather, all of which are part of the neutral family. Additionally, the beaded lace I used adds a sheer and ornate touch when the garments are seen from the runway.
Recognition: One of the winners of “most creative design” for the Co-Op dress design competition.
Internship: After graduation I will be an assistant designer for an interior decorator here in Austin, TX for the months of June and July. Then, in the fall, I plan to live in New York for a semester and intern in the fields of either styling or fashion design. After getting experience in these two fields of design I will hopefully begin my career in the one I am most passionate about!
Favorite Desigenrs: Elie Saab, Marchesa, L.A.M.B., and Christian Louboutin
Christopher Pham
Hometown: Plano,TX
Major: Textile and Apparel Design
Collection: At the Races
I’m a rower at the University of Texas at Austin and my inspiration was the prestigious rowing regatta, The Henley Royal Regatta, held in Henley England. I also was inspired by traditional English Bespoke Tailoring. For my collection, i tried to use the highest quality of fabrics that include a great silk/wool blend, a fine washed white linen and a beautiful navy striped twill wool. My collection is for the man that is sophisticated, athletic, and respects tradition and hard work.
Recognition: First Place at theNeiman Marcus Fashion Illustration Competition at the Dallas Career Day Fashion Symposium, 2010
Internship: Ralph Lauren – Men’s Purple Label, Black Label, Polo Tailored Clothing
Favorite Designers: Ralph Lauren, Thom Brown, Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs, Michael Bastian
Dhanny Indrakusuma
Major: Textiles & Apparel Design
Collection: Pepperland
My collection was inspired by the South Korean ceremonial dress, the Hanbok. I incorporated several design elements from Hanbok into my garments; such as the fullness of the skirt and the asymmetrical bow to produce a fresh and unique design that is also marketable. In my collection, I combined my pieces with military-inspired outerwear to give it a modern look. I dyed the fabrics with sun-blocker coating to protect both the garments and the wearer from the harmful effects of the UV Rays.
Internship: Stephanie Merzon / Austin, TX; Jessica Ciarla / Austin, TX; Working at Texas Performing Arts’ Costume Shop
Favorite Designers: Karl Lagerfeld, Marc Jacobs, Christophe Decarnin and Vera Wang.
Gillian Courtney
Hometown: Detroit
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Ensō “Ensō
The name of my collection is
a Japanese word meaning circle. This collection was an exercise in creating designs through various interpretations and manipulations of the circle.
Favorite Designers: Rei Kawakubo, Yohji Yamamoto, Ann Demeulemeester
Jessica Bird
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Modern Gem
I took inspiration from lingerie and gemology, which is evident in the muted jewel tone color palette and design lines delineated by contrasting piping and binding. I used brushed silk charmeuse, 3-ply silk, leather, poly crepe, and cotton monks cloth. The result is a modern twist on current silhouettes for the feminine, sophisticated, independent woman.
Internship: Vogue Stylist/Contributing Editor Tabitha Simmons and Joey Showroom / New York City ; Chloe Dao / Houston, TX
Favorite Designers: Max Azria, Alexander Wang, Elie Saab, Helmut Lang
Angela Saenz
Hometown: Austin, TX
Major: Austin Textiles and Apparel
Collection: Apparel Design Electronica
The inspiration for my collection began with the concept of wanting to design clothing not just for a woman of today, but for a woman of tomorrow. I was very interested in exploring uses of new technologies in fashion, including digital printing and incorporating electroluminescent lighting in garments. Using these ideas, my collection became very futuristic and geometric in nature. I also enjoyed juxtaposing structure with softness, vivid colors with dark colors, and woven fabrics with knitted fabrics. My fabrics, which include silk charmeuses and crepe de chines, silk/wool blends, and a modal/cupra knit which I ordered from Japan, were very key in helping me achieve the looks I desired.
Recognition: 2nd Place in the Bridal Competition at Dallas Career Day 2011; One of four student designers awarded Most Creative in the University CO-OP Private Label project – Fall 2011
I was inspired by romantic silhouettes that had a dreamy and ultra feminine look to them. I wanted to create a collection that was elegant but at the same time soft and playful. I used mostly cotton and polyester blends that were easy to drape and created both structured tops and flowing bottoms. When I picture the type of woman that would wear my collection I picture a woman who is sophisticated but at the same time very young and fun. The woman that usually came to mind was someone like Country music star Taylor Swift.
Internship: Linda Asaf Design / Austin, TX and Stephanie Merzo / Austin, TX
Favorite Designers: Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg, and Hannah MacGibbon from Chloe
Megan Mehl
Hometown: El Paso, TX
Major: Marketing and Apparel Design
Collection: Retrospective
My collection is a series of colorful dresses inspired by the bold fashions of the late 60s and early 70s. The theme of the fashion show is “innovation”, so I decided that I wanted to work with transformative garments–each dress changes form with the use of tiny magnets in order to be worn in at least two different ways. Throughout the process, my collection evolved as I also became inspired by the beautiful silk and wool fabrics that I found and by the transformative nature of the garments. This is my first chance to put my clothes on a runway, so it was important to me to make the clothing fun and dynamic. My collection was designed with a modern Edie Sedgwick in mind as my muse. She is young, charismatic, fun-loving, and fearless. Selected as part of a small group of students to participate in a pilot honors course program in New York this May, during which we will attend seminars with industry professionals and collaborate on a special project.
Internship: Design & PR with local designer
Favorite Designer: Galliano
Lindsey Wetesnik
Hometown: San Antonio
Major: Textile and Apparel Design
Collection: Birds of a Feather
My collection is inspired by my time in London and Kate Middleton’s classic style using chiffon, ruffles and feathers with an internal corset.
Internship: La Petie Salope / London, England
Favorite Designers: Monique Lhuillier, Vera Wang, and Giorgio Armani
Noelle Alyssa Garcia
Hometown: Katy, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Lolita
Lolita is about bold colors and a feminine look. I used silk crepe de chine and silk chiffon and digitally printed my own fabric for my collection. The ideal woman for my collection likes classic pieces but still looks young and feminie.
Recognition: Private label scholarship from UT Co-op to create a Game Day dress.
Internship: Miguelina / New York City and Herff Christiansen / Austin,Tx
Favorite Designers: Diane von Furstenburg, Gucci, BCBG Max Azria, Robert Rodriguez
Kalgari Ferris
Hometown: Conroe, TX
Major: Textiles & Apparel Desig
Collection: Steampunk Panache
My collection is all about steampunk-inspired couture. Each of my fabrics are of exceptional quality and include silks, leathers and cottons. All garments are lined with high-quality bemberg lining to maintain breathability. Each piece was designed as a statement of pride and empowerment. The woman who would wear this garment would be proud of herself, her accomplishments, her individuality, and her own appeal. She would be strong and confident and she would know just exactly who she is and what she wants. These garments would be an outward expression of her own inner strength.
Recognition: Creativity Award for the University Co-op Game Day Dress Design Competition;
Up and Coming Designer in Tribeza Magazine
Internship: Linda Asaf Design / Austin, TX
Favorite Designers: John Galliano, Betsey Johnson, and Vera Wang
Britni Whittington
Hometown: Longview, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Today’s Vintage
I am inspired by past fashion eras and wanted to design something that would have the look and feel of vintage clothing, but could be worn by today’s woman. The first fabric that inspired me was an off-white netting with a vintage look and is in every piece of my collection. The kind of woman who would wear my collection is someone who likes to go out after work and needs a versatile outfit that can dressed up or down with accessories. So whether she’s going to a job or just attending a casual lunch with some close friends, my customer would feel fashionable and comfortable.
Internship: Celestino / New York City
Favorite Designers: Chloe, Marc Jacobs, Rodarte, Chanel
Heidi Mashaka
Hometown: Austin, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: The Honeymoon Collection
My collection was inspired by late 1950′s Hawaiian Resort Wear. I want to go into the bridal industry after graduation and wanted to find a way to promote my collection to brides after their big day. I was inspired by the swimwear of the era which can be seen in both sundresses as well as the high waisted shorts. The collection is vintage inspired with modern relevance and appeal.
Recognition: Honorable Mention in the University Co-Op Dress Competition, Fall 2010
Internship: Erica Angeline Bridal / Atlanta, GA
Favorite Designers: Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, Oscar de la Renta
Briana Gardner
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Ethnic Eclectic
For my collection I chose to work with a variety of denims from chambray to bull denim and stretch denim. I also designed my own print on a lightweight cotton voile which serves as the focus of my collection. The type of guys and gals who would wear my collection are free-spirited and easygoing and love to mix fashion with fun. I was deeply inspired by ethnic fashion and folklore meshed with eccentric cuts and shapes. The print I designed was inspired by the Japanese lantern flower which represents good fortune and blessing.
Internship: Michael Faircloth / Dallas, TX
Favorite Designers: Marc Jacobs, Dries Van Noten, Band of Outsiders, Thom Browne and Alexander McQueen
Rachel Brady
Hometown: Liberty, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Texturize Your Closet
I was inspired by textures well as how they can be contrasted with an opposite texture. My collection is designed like a wardrobe with each piece working together in such a way that a lady can effortelssly wear any bottom and pair it with any top. I found a slubby tweed like fabric and wanted to contrast it will a soft silk along side a gold sequin fabric, creating interesting looks that a person might not normally wear together.
Internship: Linda Asaf and Stephanie Merzon / Austin, TX ; Assistant with Chicka~d / Austin, TX
Favorite Designers: Marc Jacobs, Prada, Lisa Bruemmer for Anthropologie, Miu Miu, Lanvin and Moschino
Daniel Guinn
Hometown: Tyler, TX
Major: Texas Apparel Design
Collection: Rio Bravo
My collection was insprired by classic movies and famous actors from the past. I used a yellow crepe wool in all three of my designs, which ended up presenting a few challenges but came out well. All three of my designs incorporate hidden pockets. The two menswear designs have what I call the “girlfriend pocket”, it’s a pocket in the back of the jacket with a zipper that is only accessible by someone else besides the wearer, i.e. your date. Everytime I go to a formal event my date hands me three items; a cell phone, an I.D. or credit card, and some kind of make-up product. This “girlfriend pocket” allows her to put her stuff in a pocket that she can access without having to ask the wearer of the jacket and keeps the man, who usually has already planned his pocket allocations, from having overstuffed pockets, which can be uncomfortable and just looks bad. The womenswear design has a hiden pocket in the bottom of the jacket that is for shoes to allow a woman to carry the shoes after a formal event while wearing more comfortable shoes.
Elise Romero
Hometown: Austin, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Through the Forest
My inspiration came from vintage photos and was inspired by all the things nature has to offer. I designed my collection for a whimsical type of girl who’s not afraid of an adventure. In a few of my pieces I dyed my own fabric as well as gave it a surface design known as “”burn-out”". It gives the fabric a contrasting texture of sheer or silky spots.
Recognition: UT Co-op Dress Competition Winner
Favorite Designers: Rodarte, Rachel Roy, Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren
Abigail Rodriguez
Hometown: Austin, TX
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Field of Love
I took my inspiration from a quote I heard in church, a few months ago – “Love is like a fire running free in a field, you cannot stop it.” My Spring collection is designed for women in their late 20′s to mid 40′s and is classic and traditional with a country vibe. I used different types of suedes with a lot of silk fabrics as well. My collection has eco-friendly aspects including the use of non-toxic paints and fabric dyed with tea.
Recognition: Fashion Group International Dallas Career Day – Dress designed for Little Red Dress Competition was featured in Fashion Show
Internships: Worked with various fashion shows dressing models, welcoming and seating guests, and creating stage design and production.
Favorite Designers: Jason Wu, Ralph Lauren, Dolce&Gabbana, Nina Ricci, Derek Lam, Oscar de la Renta
Miranda Ward
Hometown: San Antonio
Major: Textiles and Apparel Design
Collection: Wine Country Fashion
My inspiration for my collection was wine country and classic silhouettes like the tunic and and polo. I used the colors of wine (red, pink, and yellow) and increased the saturation for the fabrics in my collection. I used color blocking as an interpretation of the popular wine flavors like merlot, pinot grigio, and rose. I chose to use silk charmeuse for my main fabric in all my pieces because I wanted my garments to be classic and wearable, but also be feminine and make a woman feel pretty.
Internship: Moody Mamas and Nordstroms / Los Angeles
Favorite Designers: Max Azria, Diane Von Furstenberg
Meghan McCabe
Hometown: Richmond, TX
Major: Apparel Design
Collection: Wild At Heart
My collection is a blend of italian knits and recycled crochet pieces, designed for the Fall. Every piece can be dressed up or worn as is. It is comfortable, yet has a girly flair. I was influenced by Missoni (Italian knitwear designer) and brands like Anthropologie and Free People.
Recognition: The University Co-op Private Label Competition – Most Marketable Design
Monica Salem
Hometown: Pflugerville, TX
Major: Apparel Design
Collection: Icing
My designs are all about the female, and to me the word feminine brings to mind soft colors, most importantly pink, delicate and soft looking fabric, for example the stretch lace, micro suede, fur, and stretch velvet. Also, the form of the female body, which I have accentuated using darts, padding, and figure conforming patterns.
Favorite Designer: Jeremy Scott
Colton Gerard
Hometown: Pflugerville
Major: Apparal Design
Collection: Heritage
The inspiration for my collection came from the need to create a collection for a man by a man. I wanted to design something incredibly masculine because I’m a man in a women’s industry, and I am very proud of that. I drew a lot of inspiration from World War 2 uniforms and bags. The heavy use of leather and top stitching used during that period are greatly incorporated within my designs. I took those elements and added a touch of the outdoors and a bit of hunting to give a more current feel to the collection. I looked at Harrison Ford in Indiana Jones as a muse because I wanted to design for a man that was adventurous and daring, but was also charming at the same time. I used fabrics and materials that reflected the outdoors such as duck cloth, wool, buffalo nickels, jute roping, deer antler, and dock rope to create garments that had an inherit American feel to them, hence the title “HERITAGE”.
Favorite Designer: Tom Ford
We’ll be introducing the UT Fashion Designers to you all week. Check back to see the latest profiles.
You know Spring is in the air when you start hearing the buzz about the annual University of Texas Fashion Show. Excitement is building on the UT campus as budding fashion designers are preparing to showcase their talent on Thursday, April 21 at the Frank Erwin Center for the “Innovation”, the 2011 fashion show edition from the Division of Textiles and Apparels department.
Each year, the University of Texas Fashion Show is the largest fashion show in Austin and brings out the movers and shakers of Austin’s fashion community. Over 5,000 people attended the event last year and for the first time, it was web cast LIVE from our web site. We’re back again this year and will be web casting the fashion show live from FashionablyAustin.com.
The 2011 senior class is a mix of twenty-three creative and talented fashion designers. I have been covering this event for more than 10 years and every year the quality of the collections get better and better. This year is no exception, the quality of their work is exceptional! And with the show less than a week away, the designers are frantically preparing the final details so they can present their designs to world.
The apparel design students will present ninety-six original designs on the runway at the Frank Erwin Center. Opening with game day dresses in a burnt orange theme, followed by individual collections that include inspiration from The Outdoors Man, Henley Regatta, Geometry, and Nature to name a few. The students are embracing technology and using sustainable fabrics, designing digital prints, creating laser cut patterns and working with textured knits. The show would not be complete without the much-anticipated evening and bridal gowns to wrap up the evening.
After the show, a few lucky students will receive awards in several categories. This week each students presented their designs to a panel of judges. This year’s judges’ included Megan Summerville, Texas’ Next Top Designer 2009; Designer Linda Asaf; Steven Dubois; Designer Gail Chovan; Austin fashion writer Stephen MacMillian Moser; Designer Jessica Ciarla; and The Garden Room boutique owner Patti Hoffpauir.
Thank You to Our LIVE WEB CAST Sponsor: University Co-op
We are so excited to have been asked to web cast the show again for family and friends who can’t attend. And we thank the University Co-op for sponsoring our webcast coverage and Eve Nicols, Program Director of the Apparel Design Division of Textiles & Apparel School of Human Ecology for the opportunity to cover the event and the support she has shown for Fashionably Austin.
Fashionably Austin will also produce an official “Innovation” Fashion Show DVD with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the University Fashion Group. The DVDs will be on sale on our web site and can be ordered at our booth at the University of Texas Fashion Show.
To find the latest Spring fashions trends you might turn to the latest issue of your favorite magazine, ask a friend or go window shopping. To make things easy for the fashion challenged or for the fashion diva, The Domain presented their annual Simon Fashion Now event. Food vendors provided sampling, salon booths, artists sketched and a prom dress charity drive was sponsored by Project Princess.
The warm and windy spring weather got shoppers in the mood to shop for all the hot fashion spring trends. The white tent set up right in the middle of the center let attendees see how they can put together great and affordable looks for Spring. Clothing and jewelry were provided by the following retailers:
Dillard’s, Macy’s, Meiman Marcus, Aeropostale, American Eagle Outfitters, Anne Fontaine, Banana Republic, bebe, Betsey Johnson, Buckle, Cache, Calypso St. Barth, Charming Charlie, Cole Haan, Forever 21, Lilly Pulitzer, Lucky Brand Luxe Apothetique, Metropark, Michael Kors, Shasa, Southern Thread, Stuart Weitzman, Tommy Bahama, Vans and White House I Black Market.
Here are some of the looks from the end of the runway from Dillard’s and Forever 21.
The runways from New York Fashion Week provided us with a variety of fall trends. One easy trend to try is a new hairstyle. Many styles like buns or curls are great for everyday and can easily transition from day to night.
Buns, from large and over the top, to classically polished were seen on the runway for many designers. Zang Toi featured models with huge, fanciful buns piled high right in the center of their heads. Models for L.A.M.B. showed a variety of inspiring hairstyles including messy buns with large flowing braids and a modern take on the feminine bouffant. To achieve these looks, you can try clip-in hair pieces for added volume and drama, while volumizing mousse and hairspray can keep your style in place.
Curls, whether soft and bouncy or firmly formed, are also a big trend for fall. The models for Monique Lhuillier showed ultra feminine glamour with large tight curls pinned in an updo, adorned with a single black bow. This look would be great for a formal occasion or to add elegance to an evening out.
If this look is too dramatic for you, you can look to the soft, sultry, loose curls featured on the models for Mackage. While still feminine, this look is easily attainable with hot rollers and a curling iron.
Nautica and Mik Cire gave us great looks for guys. Models for both showed different hairstyles from slicked back and polished to natural and tousled. Whether you’re a guy in need of a new style or you think your guy needs something new, these models provide excellent inspiration.
Breeze Salon is an Aveda concept salon with locations in Cedar Park and Georgetown. Their stylists specialize in cutting, coloring and styling and can help choose the perfect hairstyle just for you.
Last month Cheryl Bemis of Fashionably Austin got a chance to meet Michael Kors during Paris Fashion Week. She was on her way to an appointment when she found herself lost in the streets of Paris. But her disorientation led to a fortunate encounter with the famous designer. He was gracious in taking a photo, and Cheryl invited him to stop by Austin sometime. “Oh yes,” Kors replied, “We have a store in the Domain in Austin!”
Michael Kors, a mega designer and one of the judges on Project Runway, was in Paris for his 30th year in business celebration and the opening of his new Rue Saint-Honore store.
When Project Runway moved from Bravo to Lifetime with Season 6 and 7, its audience numbers seemed to decline. However, Season 8 surpassed four million viewers, breaking ratings record. And now Project Runway is casting for Season 9! We’ve had many talented designers from Texas and yet to have one from Austin!
Fashionably Austin was at the last runway show during New York Fashion Week last fall. Here is coverage of NYFW Spring and Summer 2011 Collections and Project Runway’s Final Four of Season 8. Sponsored by the Art Institute of Austin.
Five different local brands had an opportunity to showcase their merchandise at Molotov Lounge on Wednesday evening. TIKKR Watches, Criquet Shirts, StripedShirt, 5th & Lamar, and Helm Boots displayed their items in a laid-back setting while visitors grabbed a drink, hung out, and enjoyed exclusive discounts on watches, polos, tshirts, dress shirts, and boots. TIKKR Watches offers durable watches with a twist of customization; Criquet shirts are made out of organic cotton; StripedShirt provides well-fitted shirts that allow women and children to support their home teams; 5th & Lamar’s mission is to make super slim-fit shirts for men who want to look great; and Helm Boots products are the result of design inspiration and expert leather craftsmanship.
