Anne Hand, Assoc. Prof. Fashion Design Faculty
Thrift Store Redesign
As the ranks thin, Philadelphia University's remaining six contestants give new meaning to "one man's trash is another man's treasure" Students were given a budget of twenty five dollars to take a trip through the aisles of the local Salvation Army Thrift Store and come up with a designer look fashioned from other people's cast offs.
Allison used 27 navy blue t-shirts to create an edgy eveningwear piece. Particularly noteworthy was her use of the graphics from the shirts. Despite some initial confusion during the shopping trip, LaTanya used an interesting combination of yellow and aqua to create a trendy beach look for the teen set. "Leopard Madness" was the expression Corrine used to describe her sassy little sundress that featured a signature back bow. With a trip to the beach in shades of pink and sweater dressing textures Pam showed the audience that cardigans are not just for winter climates. Ivy looked to menswear shirts and jackets for her inspiration. Interesting bodice details and a skirt that played with plaids and movement insured that the runner up crown was hers in this week's challenge. Eighties career dressing was the inspiration for Dominique's award winning sportswear. Once again she showed the audience her talent in creating a soft, easy and modern looking silhouette.
Although the pressure is on to finish collections, write papers and search for a job; the contestants really seemed to be able to take a breath and enjoy this week's assignment.
