The work of 17 designers, 95 models, more than 102 outfits, hair stylists and makeup artist will combine at the Doyle Dean Performing Arts Center on May 18 for the Advance Fashion Design fashion show, Premiere.
Senior Sofie Kyhnel’s line is named Pretty Tough because each item will be studded after she was inspired by a pair of shoes.
“I’ve always really liked shoes, even more than I like clothes,” Kyhnel said. “The pair of shoes that inspired me had spikes all over and I’m going to be putting spikes on all of the clothes I make. I did a few different things with my pieces and the studs will tie whole collection together.”
While taking basic fashion design Kyhnel participated in a fashion show, but she said that the two will differ greatly.
“Last year I made three pieces for the fashion show and I wasn’t completely done when we had the show,” Kyhnel said. “This year we have to have more pieces and be all the way finished so I put a lot of work in, not only is advanced fashion design a double block but I work on it outside of class too. After the cost of supplies and the amount of effort I put into my collection I decided to make all the to fit me and my best friend because then I’ll be able to wear if I want. Last year I didn’t really worry about it but for this fashion show I chose models that are around my size or that I can pin the clothes to fit them.”
Kyhnel said that she enjoys making the clothes and even though she is nervous for the fashion show she is looking forward to it.
“I know that right before the fashion show I’m going to be very anxious, but once it starts I’ll calm down,” Kyhnel said. “I have a lot work to do, but I just take things day by day. It always seems like I will plan on finishing or progressing to a certain part, but then something will happen. In the end all the work will be worth it, and I actually like what I’m doing.”
Fashion throughout various decades influenced senior Mary Walton who has will have a total of eight pieces that make up six outfits for Premier.
“Originally, I came up with the idea to have a different look for each decade leading up from the 1900s to the 2000s,” Walton said. “But as I progressed, I came up with new pieces that I wanted to make instead, but I’m happy with the way everything has turned out, and it all still ties back into my main theme.”
After being in fashion design for the past two years and going to New York with her classmates Walton said she has not only bettered herself as a designer but has built friendships.
“My skill has improved 100 percent since the beginning of this year,” Walton said. “Ms. Turnbo is a great teacher and she’s taught me a lot. I feel so much more confident in my skills, although I’m notorious for cutting holes in my garments. I would have to say my favorite part of the class is the atmosphere. You’re surrounded by people who share the same passion as you; I’ve made so many great friends in this class.”
Premier is something both Kyhnel and Walton said they are anticipating.
“The fashion show has been such a huge deal for everyone in this class, we’ve all worked so hard for it,” Walton said. “I think the fashion show is going to be great. I can’t wait to see how everyone’s collections turn out, we have a lot of very talented designers with a broad range of styles, so it should be a very fun, high energy show.”
