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IN THIS ISSUE APRIL 2011 3 A PASSION FOR FASHION University Fashion Group celebrates fashion-forward students.
7 INGENUITY
Textiles and Apparel students exhibit their newest creations.
Stephanie Bathurst Samantha Fanelli Destinee Hodge Jordan D. Schraeder Amy Thornton
Layout and Design Sheri Alzeerah
Cover Design Alyssa Peters
Special Editions Student Editors Stephanie Bathurst Jordan D. Schraeder
Special Editions Coordinator Adrienne Lee ADVERTISING & CREATIVE SERVICES
Director Jalah Goette
Assistant to Director CJ Salgado
4 HAIRRAISING
Trends of tomorrow hit the worldwide fashion scene.
Writers
Stephanie Bathurst Lara Haase Reshma Kirpalani
Go behind studio doors for the upcoming annual fashion show.
5 A STITCH IN TIME
CONTRIBUTING STAFF
Photographers
4 INSIDE THE DESIGNERS’ WORKSHOP
Austin salon prepares for a glamorous evening of fashion.
ORANGE RUNWAY
CONTRIBUTING STAFF
Local Sales Manager Brad Corbett
Broadcast Manager Carter Goss
Campus/National Sales Joan Bowerman
13 THE ROOT OF ALL EVE
Fashion show director Eve Nicols’ impressive history with the world of style does all the talking.
14 THE REAL WORLD
Former Longhorns make a name for themselves in the fashion industry.
15 INTERNAL AFFAIRS
Students score killer internships with renowned designers across the U.S.
Student Ad Director Kathryn Abbas
Student Ad Managers Maryanne Lee
Student Account Executives Leah Feigel Ryan Ford Selene Flores Sarah Hall Rachel Huey Cameron McClure Ian Payne Veronica Serrato Patti Zhang
Student Office Assistant Rene Gonzalez
Senior Graphic Designer Felimon Hernandez
Junior Designers
Formals
Plus Sizes
Costumes
Sizes 4 to 4X 4
14 & up casual casu to dressy dre
Halloween Renaissance dress-up & accessories
Tues-Sat 11-7 p.m., Sun Sun12-5 p.m. 502 West 30th (Just East of Guadalupe) 512-VENUS-NV (836-8768)
venusenvyconsignments.com
Bianca Krause Alyssa Peters Casey Rogers
Orange Runway is an advertising special edition of The Daily Texan written and produced by students. Copyright 2011 Texas Student Media. All articles, photographs and graphics are the property of Texas Student Media and may not be reproduced or republished in part or in whole without written permission. Contact us: Special Editions Office, HSM C3-308 Texas Student Media tsmspecialeditions@gmail.com 512-471-5887
orange runway A PASSION FOR FASHION
S
urrounded by halfsewn garments and runway panels stacked neatly in the center of the room, University Fashion Group (UFG) meets Tuesday nights to discuss upcoming fashion-related events. UFG is a student organization that strives to get members experience in the fashion industry, both in Austin and around the country. Members have the chance to gain exclusive backstage work experience at fashion shows during New York and LA Fashion weeks. The club also helps UT students promote themselves to future employers in the fashion industry. “We market to all students, not just the textile and apparel school,” said UFG President Valerie Dávila. “We really try to get the entire community involved.” UFG officers host charity events, suggest fashion internships, help students build portfolios and invite influential designers to speak on campus. The club’s public relations director Stefant Phonthepha-
sone, a textiles and apparel senior, said the group focuses the fall semester on publicizing UFG as an organization. Once the spring semester begins, the group works entirely on the fashion show. Dávila says the show is the biggest event UFG hosts each year. It’s an opportunity for students to display their garments to a wide audience of fashion connoisseurs. “It’s a lot of work; we do everything,” said junior apparel design major Marissa Chapman. “From PR to stuffing VIP gift bags, we’re what makes it all happen.” The meeting continues into the night, and the discussion turns to finances. Members debate whether blue or white lights would be the best use of their budget and look for creative ways to cut the cost of promotional posters. As the UFG treasurer, Chapman tracks finances for the show. “At first I was kind of pressured into [being UFG treasurer], but it’s been awesome being this hands-on during a fashion show,” she said. “I have gotten so much experience.”
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3
APRIL 2011
The 2010 show drew 5,000 attendees, and Phonthephasone said they hope to see that many again. “It’s a lot of pressure, but we want to get at least that many this year,” he said. Now in his third year helping with the group’s public relations, Phonthephasone said he’s getting better at it. “I just already know what not to do, what to do earlier and what to do better,” he said. “It will be a smoother sail than last year.” As the end of the school year draws closer, some students are saying goodbye to the organization they have come to love. “I would love to keep you all forever, but some of you will be graduating soon,” said Eve
BY STEPHANIE BATHURST
FASHION TALK
By Stephanie Bathurst
Nicols, senior lecturer at the School of Human Ecology and UFG adviser. She urged her students to refer new members
to the group for the following school year. Any students interested in fashion are encouraged to join UFG in the fall.
orange runway
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APRIL 2011
INSIDE THE DESIGNERS’ WORKSHOP
GO FIGURE By Lara Haase
STUDENTS CRAFT ORIGINAL APPAREL BEHIND STUDIO DOORS BY DESTINEE HODGE
HAIR-RAISING
A
LOCAL SALON TURNS HEADS IN PREPARATION FOR FASHION SHOW
BY SAMANTHA FANELLI
s bobby pins fly through the air, a team of hairstylists skillfully maneuvers their way around the chaotic maze backstage at UT’s annual fashion production. That’s how the staff at Cobalt Blue salon likes it: they thrive off of the crazy atmosphere when the show rolls around each spring. “If I say ‘quick, I need a pin,’ I suddenly have four people throwing pins at me,” said Brandy Veysey, a Cobalt Blue stylist and the salon’s event coordinator. “It’s amazing to see how well we all work together under such circumstances.” The South Austin salon was recruited to work on “High Voltage,” last year’s production, by the show’s director Eve Nicols. When Nicols, who had personally used the salon for years, invited the Cobalt Blue stylists to help backstage, the salon eagerly jumped at the opportunity. “It feels so good to give back to the community,” said Theresa Eller, a Cobalt Blue stylist. With last year’s show under their belts, the stylists are ready
to tackle this year’s production entitled “Innovation.” Although the event takes place in April, the team started preparing months ago by researching hairstyles and taking styling classes that better prepare them for the show. “Come December, we all start getting really excited. We start looking at fashion shows in New York to get ideas and looks for the new year,” Veysey said. The Cobalt Blue team says that this year’s attendees will see lots of volume and texture on the Innovation runway. In collaboration with the student designers, the hairstylists have crafted looks straight out of fashion editorial magazines. The resulting looks include lots of lift at the roots, crimping, braids and hair that goes in different directions. While styling the hair of models backstage is thrilling, the team’s favorite part of the experience is seeing its hard work come together on the runway. “We are all so proud of everyone at Cobalt Blue,” Ellers said. “It takes a lot of courage to make this all happen.”
The annual UT textiles and apparel fashion show is a behemoth when it comes to planning. With the Frank Erwin Center as its annual home, and an average of 5,000 attendees, extreme organization is required to ensure its success. The event, which features fashion collections designed by UT textiles and apparel students, is completely sponsored by the University Co-operative Society. “If it weren’t for George Mitchell at the University Co-op, this wouldn’t be a free event that’s open to the public,” said Karen Bravo, a lecturer in the Division of Textiles and Apparel. “He’s basically paying the bill, and it’s kind of amazing to have that opportunity.” Bravo, along with fellow lecturer Ockhee Bego, advises the senior students and makes sure that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes of one of the University’s largest events. Bego works specifically with backstage production, and Bravo works directly with the student designers and volunteers from the University Fashion Group. In conjunction with Eve Nicols, the show’s director, the pair coordinates hair, makeup and models for the students, in addition to providing general advice and suggestions for their collections. “As advisers, we want to make sure these students are staying on track by meeting those deadlines,” Bravo said. The seniors and the University Fashion Group began their preparations for this year’s show, “Innovation,” last fall. The production is part of the senior year program for students who study textiles and apparel. The senior program, which has three parts, begins in the fall when the students create a private label. This assignment involves designing with University Co-op customers in mind, Bravo said. Students are then required to design either an evening or bridal gown.
PRODUCTION Continues on page 12
orange runway 5 FASHION OF THE FUTURE A STITCH IN TIME:
T
he Paris runway, the New York runway and now – the Orange Runway. The designs of “Innovation” are more than just innovative; they are on trend with the work of international designers, which is no small feat for a group of college students. Here’s a sneak peek of what you’re going to see next Thursday in the Frank Erwin Center:
APRIL 2011
BY JORDAN D. SCHRAEDER
MARCH OF THE MODELS By Associated Press
DIGITAL PRINTING
SUSTAINABLE FASHION
Eco-friendly clothing has been around for years, but has recently become prevalent on runways worldwide. Natasha Gindin, designer of LAVUK, has created a steady following due to her use of sustainable fabrics and dyes to create modern pieces. The brand was featured in New York Fashion Week’s Green Show last September, as
tion for “Innovation,” she utilizes teas to color her garments, an eco-friendly alternative to toxic paints or dyes. “When dying with tea, it can just go down the drain and it doesn’t hurt the environment,” she said Rodriguez also hand-painted her collection with non-toxic paints she ordered online.
well as this spring’s LA Fashion Week. Senior Abigail Rodriguez hopes to have the same success. In her collec-
The Division of Textiles and Apparel is one of the only undergraduate programs that offers a course in digital printing. This method, which is growing popular in the fashion world, involves using a photo image to create a pattern that is then printed on fabric. In a course taught by Professor Jane Craig, the senior students learn the precarious nature of digital printing; the ink is not colorfast, and must be set properly or the image will be ruined. The students use photos that they take themselves for class assignments; one designer even used
Cobalt Blue, The Official Stylists of The Fashion “Innovation” Show
a picture of the Austin skyline for a digital printing project. Project Runway alum Daniel Vosovic employed this technology at his New York Fashion Week show in February. His digital print blouses were hailed as the must-have items from his fall collection by fashion blog, The Fashion Informer.
LED TECHNOLOGY
It may have been Katy Perry who lit up the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute’s annual gala last year, but senior Monica Salem believes that lightup dresses are more suited for Holiday Barbie. Salem’s collection includes an evening gown with a red bow illuminated by battery-powered LED lights. “I think it works with the show’s theme of innovation,” Salem said. “and I think it’s about time that Mattel came out with a Barbie that has lights incorporated right into the dress.”
Fa s h i o n s h ow > i n n ovat i o n > april>21>2011 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN SCHOOL OF HUMAN ECOLOGY DIVISION OF TEXTILES AND APPAREL
FASHION SHOW AT 8 P.M. EXPOSITION AND FASHION ALLEY AT 6:30 P.M. FREE ADMISSION | FRANK ERWIN CENTER
S P E C I A L TH A N K S T O
• BLACKBIRD’S CLOTHING • COBALT BLUE • KENDRA SCOTT • LEGENDARY BEADS • MEN’S WEARHOUSE • PLAIN IVEY JANE • SONO BELLO • STELLA & DOT • STELLA SAYS GO • VENUS ENVY CONSIGNMENTS •
INGENUITY
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ORANGE RUNWAY | APRIL 2011
BEHIND SEAMS T H E
AT ORANGE RUNWAY’S EXCLUSIVE SHOOT PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY RESHMA KIRPALANI
BACK IN BLACK (AND WHITE)
FIT FOR A BRIDE
ALL THAT GLITTERS
BLACKTIE AFFAIR
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APRIL 2011 | ORANGE RUNWAY
UNCOMMON
INGENUITY INGENUITY
THREAD
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ORANGE RUNWAY | APRIL 2011
MELANIE MCQUARY
NATALIA PRIETO
model
model
LINDSEY WETESNIK designer
A DOZEN LONGHORN DESIGNERS DEBUT THEIR LATEST PROJECTS PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE BATHURST
IRENE CARTER
AUDREY CAMELO model
model
T BOUS A E MOR IGNER 1 DES PAGE 1 ON
MEGHAN MCCABE designer
CRYSTAL COLMENERO designer
BART FREDERICK model
BRITNI WHITTINGTON designer
DANIEL GUINN TYLER NEAL
designer
OUT B A E MORODELS 0 M GE 1 A ON P
model
MEGHAN MEHL
JASMINE MILLS
designer
model
ALYSSA GARCIA
LAUREN FUERTES
designer
SARAH KISLINGBURY model
model
MIRANDA WARD
BRIANA GARDNER
designer
designer
RACHEL BRADY designer
ABIGAIL RODRIGUEZ
HEIDI MASHAKA
designer
designer
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APRIL 2011 | ORANGE RUNWAY
MODEL CITIZENS
STRIKING STUDENTS DO MUCH MORE THAN STRIKE POSES MELANIE MCQUARY
Design and Retail Merchandising junior
wooden heels, leather watches and using different textures for one garment. BEST BEAUTY ADVICE just smile! MAKEUP MUST-HAVE Bare Essentials mascara IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE in New York and loving life. FAVORITE
INGENUITY
TREND
SARAH KISLINGBURY French junior
FAVORITE TREND the slightly androgynous look that allows personality and grace of movement to define you. IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE living in France.
IRENE CARTER
Textiles and Apparel Design junior FAVORITE TREND Maxi dresses and espadrilles BEST BEAUTY ADVICE wear the least amount of makeup you can get away with! And wear daring things while you’re still young. MAKEUP MUST-HAVE chapstick and sunscreen IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE successful with a collection of my own.
AUDREY CAMELO
Retail Merchandising senior FAVORITE TREND lace BEST BEAUTY ADVICE drink plenty of water IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE traveling and experiencing new cultures.
LAUREN FUERTES
Retail Merchandising senior FAVORITE TREND one shoulder garments BEST BEAUTY ADVICE be comfortable and match
IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE the owner of a boutique specializing in custom-fit denim.
NATALIA PRIETO
Public Relations senior FAVORITE TREND ankle boots. They look great on! BEST BEAUTY ADVICE natural hair and makeup makes you look classy and sexy. MAKEUP MUST-HAVE mascara! I absolutely cannot live without it. IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE working in entertainment PR. Maybe I’ll open my own firm one day.
JASMINE MILLS Biology and Pre-Med freshman
FAVORITE TREND everything American-inspired! I love over-sized T-shirts, cutoff jeans, leather jackets and boots. BEST BEAUTY ADVICE Extra virgin olive oil is a great makeup remover, and sugar can be used as a cheap exfoliant. MAKEUP MUST-HAVE Black eyeliner is a must-have for me. So fierce. IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE a dermatologist or perhaps a sky-diving instructor. Who knows!
TYLER NEAL
Journalism sophomore FAVORITE TREND minimalism. I’m a huge fan of Calvin Klein. Simple is beautiful. BEST BEAUTY ADVICE get plenty of sleep. IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE writing for a magazine and being fabulous. I see myself being happy.
BART FREDERICK Government junior
BY JORDAN D. SCHRAEDER | PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE BATHURST
INGENUITY HEIDI MASHAKA
HOMETOWN Austin, TX COLLECTION I want to go into
the bridal industry after graduation, so I wanted to find a way to market my collection to brides after their big day. I’m calling it the Honeymoon Collection - it’s perfect for a honeymoon in Hawaii! INSPIRATION 1950s Hawaiian resort wear FAVORITE TREND mixed patterns LEAST FAVORITE TREND
ripped jeans
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE a graphic
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ORANGE RUNWAY | APRIL 2011
I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
Ellen Degeneres. She’s such a funny, smart and kind-hearted person. FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT tradition
IN
STYLE
DANIEL GUINN
HOMETOWN Tyler, TX COLLECTION A lot
of yellow, crisp lines, classic styles and a few surprise innovations INSPIRATION Classic
were stirred in that direction. FAVORITE TREND Sheer maxi skirts. I think it’s a trend that will continue to evolve and I’m fascinated by anything sheer! I love the challenge of layering and working around the issue of exposed undergarments.
INNOVATORS
LEAST FAVORITE TREND
T-shirt verbiage
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE in the music
industry since its my first passion.
I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH Kanye West.
I’m really feeling his music right now, and given his public persona, the experience would be nothing short of entertaining. FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT the Blanton Art Museum. It’s my favorite place on campus and it’s been a pleasure to be constantly inspired by the different exhibitions.
MEET THE FACES BEHIND THE FASHIONS TAILORED FOR THE RUNWAY BY JORDAN D. SCHRAEDER
designer.
I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
George Harrison, because I’m a huge Beatles fan. FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT the traditions
BRITNI WHITTINGTON
HOMETOWN Longview, TX COLLECTION Vintage-inspired
girly fashion that can be dressed up or dressed casually INSPIRATION Vintage eras and the brand Chloe FAVORITE TREND feminine clothing inspired by Rodarte and Black Swan. LEAST FAVORITE TREND Crocs
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE running a small boutique that
was mixed with either a venue or a catering business.
I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
Audrey Hepburn or Barbara Streisand because they are both genuine and successful women who have made an impact. FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT My major. Everyone is supportive and has fun together in Apparel Design.
MIRANDA WARD
HOMETOWN San Antonio, TX COLLECTION It’s resort. I can see
someone wearing it at a beach or boat party. It’s glamourous and girly, but has very classic styles. INSPIRATION Wine country and the tunic FAVORITE TREND loose-fitting boyfriend tees LEAST FAVORITE TREND UGG boots! (Especially with shorts)
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE in real estate or a psychologist.
MEGHAN MEHL
HOMETOWN El Paso, TX COLLECTION My collection is
really fun, colorful and vibrant. It’s a collection of transformative dresses that change with the use of tiny magnets so that each can be worn two different ways. INSPIRATION It started with a ‘60s and ‘70s theme and has slowly evolved as I’ve been inspired by the beautiful fabrics I found. FAVORITE TREND In-your-face color LEAST FAVORITE TREND I think everyone should wear whatever they want.
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE working in a fashion PR or ad-
vertising firm or owning my own business.
I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
Alexander McQueen. He was incredibly talented and not afraid to express himself. And boy, could he put on a show! FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT
tons of different people to meet and lots of opportunities! I was lucky enough to study marketing and apparel design.
CRYSTAL COLMENERO
HOMETOWN El Paso, TX COLLECTION My collection has
a very feminine, romantic and playful feel. FAVORITE TREND Bright color and florals LEAST FAVORITE TREND Distressed jeans
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE a psychologist, which is my
second major.
FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT the
pride and school spirit
ALYSSA GARCIA
HOMETOWN Katy, TX COLLECTION My collection is
about feeling feminine, but still wearing simple pieces. INSPIRATION Bright flowers and the Marc Jacobs Lola perfume bottle. The shape is really curvy and has a giant flower on top. FAVORITE TREND Color-blocking LEAST FAVORITE TREND oversized T-shirts and sweaters
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE a psychologist I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH Mother Teresa because
she is a peaceful, inspiring lady who helped children all over the world. FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT all the grassy spaces to study, take naps and socialize between classes
RACHEL BRADY
HOMETOWN Liberty, TX COLLECTION My collection is
inspired by textures and professional women on the go. FAVORITE TREND Mixing and matching patterned fabrics LEAST FAVORITE TREND Harem pants
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE a fashion stylist. I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
Coco Chanel to ask about her fascinating and rebellious life. FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT the atmosphere and pride that Longhorn students share
movies
FAVORITE TREND the shoulder
patch
LEAST FAVORITE TREND athletic
shorts with collared shirts
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE
doing ministry with high school students or coaching soccer I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
Jesus. I would love to hear what he has to say and maybe ask a few questions. FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT It’s in Texas, and it gives you a common bond with people who go to or went to the University.
LINDSEY WETESNIK
HOMETOWN San Antonio, TX COLLECTION peacocks, chiffon
and corsets
INSPIRATION my summer internship in London FAVORITE TREND I’m not a trendy person; I prefer classic style lines. LEAST FAVORITE TREND holes in jeans
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE an actress. I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
Princess Diana
FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT liv-
ing in Austin and the way we all network after graduation.
BRIANA GARDNER
HOMETOWN Dallas, TX COLLECTION My collection is a
fusion of ethnic elements, mixed prints and proportions. INSPIRATION an amazing song called “Sunrise” by an experimental band named Yeasayer. Because they draw their inspiration from Bollywood and different forms of world music, my ideas
MEGHAN MCCABE
HOMETOWN Richmond, TX COLLECTION My collection is
for fall and is made out of knit fabric. It’s called “Wild at Heart,” and I designed it to represent my distinct style. INSPIRATION I love brands like Free People, Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters. I’m also greatly inspired by Missoni and their special mixing of knits.
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE working outside and around a
lot of people. I also really believe in having a job that promotes sustainability and cooperation. FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT the teachers. They have been invaluable at advancing my knowledge as I move into the professional realm.
ABIGAL RODRIGUEZ
HOMETOWN Austin, TX COLLECTION My collection is
very traditional and classic, with a country aspect to it. INSPIRATION A quote I heard in church a while back: “Love is like a fire running free in a field. You cannot stop it.” FAVORITE TREND Neons. It’s been a while since they’ve been around and I’m glad they’re back.
IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE
a math teacher. I really love math.
I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
Jimmy Fallon. He’s hilarious!
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APRIL 2011
PRODUCTION Continued from page 4
“That was a higher level of sewing and using more difficult fabric,” Bravo said. The show in the spring is the final section of the students’ senior project and is a culmination of their work from the previous year. The students in the Advanced Apparel Design class must create a full collection complete with storyboards and fabric swatches. However,
because time is limited, they are only required to make three outfits for the fashion show. The pieces range from gowns to outfit combinations of blouses and pants, and the students have their choice of fabrics and creative techniques. Although the students are not responsible for contracting the models for their collection, the designers must
15% Off College Discount
provide measurements for all their garments so the clothing fits properly on the runway. The students are also responsible for suggesting the type of models they want for their collections and conducting fittings. “We need the right model for the right garment,” Bego said. “Certain clothing has to be the right color for the person’s hair and eye color.”
The show uses Sue Webber Productions to hire professional models, Austin salon Cobalt Blue for hair and Sephora Cosmetics will provide makeup backstage. Bravo, who has worked at fashion shows around the world, said that hiring experts for each of these areas elevates the show to a professional level. “I think that our UT fashion show really is on the
same level that a New York Fashion Week show is,” she said. Also backstage, volunteers from the University Fashion Group will act as dressers for each designer. After being assigned to a designer, the dresser becomes familiar with the garments and learns the most efficient way of handling them. It is important to be prepared and know exactly what they should be doing, Bego said. On the day of the event, the department has a single dress rehearsal two or three hours before the show. This is the first time the models walk the runway. This year, Christopher Cline, a professional music producer and UT-San Antonio lecturer, will be working on creating the music that the models walk to. Bravo said having only one dress rehearsal works out because so much planning has gone in beforehand. “Being a senior show, parents and families are there. I guess we feel a huge burden on our shoulders that we don’t want to let anyone down,” Bravo said. “[So] it’s very wellorganized and eerily calm [backstage.] You do feel pressure and it is intense, but it’s an exciting kind of intensity.” According to the advisers, the show is important for the students because it gives them real-world experience. “We like our students to go out actually leading the industry, not working for the industry,” Bravo said. She added that as a result of the detailed process for completing the program, students are prepared to enter the working world. The fashion show will take place on April 21 at the Frank Erwin Center and will feature the collections of 22 seniors.
orange runway
APRIL 2011
THE ROOT OF ALL EVE
J
13 BY AMY THORNTON
2011 FASHION SHOW DIRECTOR EVE NICOLS TALKS INNOVATION, HER CAREER & DURAN DURAN
“PEOPLE OBSERVE THAT THEY’VE NEVER SEEN SO MANY PEOPLE WORK SO HARD AND BE SO HAPPY ABOUT IT,”
NICOLS We book the dates and the key people involved the spring semester before the next spring’s show, usually in March and April. We begin more of the work in the fall, and obviously in the spring semester of the show it gets really intense. We work on the stage set in March, as well as photo shoots, since the idea is to get every student some publicity any way we can. Students work on completing the three garments for their collection; the music is composed for the show; and we send in all the measurements for the models so we can organize the model sequence, which is quite a puzzle because each model has to have time to change. Early in the semester we were planning for the exhibit room, which is a reflection of work that is going on across the program and all courses, and is a wonderful introduction to some of what goes on in textiles and apparel. OR How is the show’s theme chosen? NICOLS The theme is a word that encapsulates the feeling of the group of seniors. One year they had “celebrate,” another year they had “luminescence” and last year it was “high voltage”— and they were. This year they’re “innovation,” and in not the most obvious way we think of innovation — some have technical aspects of innovation, some have innovation of using ecologically friendly fabrics. So, it’s taking fashion from that direction. OR What does the fashion show do for the Division of Textiles and Apparel and its students? NICOLS It’s a springboard to their futures, and some people would say it’s the capstone experience. For the apparel students, it takes their work to the next level and prepares them for industry. Very often students that
IN GOOD HANDS By Stephanie Bathurst
ust as it’s hard to judge a romance, he asked me to marry him book by its cover, it’s hard and move to Austin. Much like my to tell the past of a profes- leap of faith going to Hong Kong, I sor by his or her current came to Austin even though I didn’t profession—particularly at know what I was going to do when a university that draws talent from all I got here, especially since there over the world to educate its students. wasn’t a lot of fashion design going Textiles and apparel students who on in Austin in the summer of 1996. work with senior lecturer Eve Nicols Then I met the head of the program know this to be true, as Nicols’ Eng- here, and about six months later a polish accent indicates only the tip of sition opened up. her vast experience in the world of Sometimes I feel like I never left fashion. The same woman who helps the building because it’s so busy and students with their senior collections exciting and there is so much to do each spring has worked in Milan, here. I really enjoy the opportunity to Hong Kong, and even helped design share the experiences I had in the infor CBS in the 1980’s, fashioning dustry. That is my motivation for dooutfits for the likes of Adam and the ing this — to provide the best opporAnts and Duran Duran. tunities to students in the program. OR What most influences your Nicols’dedication to fostering budding fashion designers has launched teaching style? NICOLS In my first teaching the annual spring fashion show to new levels. Recently, she was one of job in 1983, I taught with professor John Miles, seven professors who went on to receive the to be head of President’s Asthe Royal Colsociates Teachlege of Art in ing Excellence their Fashion Award for 2010Textiles Mar2011. We caught keting program up with Nicols, in London. I busy amidst was highly impreparations for pressed with his this years show, dedication to themed “Innothe students and vation.” -Eve Nicols said to make every ORANGE of student designers RUNWAY aspect of what Many of your former and current we took on the very best it could be. students mention your career as a I was very impressed with the way source of inspiration for their own he totally focused in on helping stucareers and dreams. What are some dents — he was a dynamo. I had his of your highlights of your career? picture in my office to remind me EVE NICOLS I worked in Milan to get in early, get it done, and don’t in 1981 and was able to sell designs give up. before I started teaching at Brighton Our new director of the School Polytechnic University in England in of Human Ecology, Dr. Sheldon 1983, doing textiles and designs and Ekland-Olson, also inspires me as putting on their fashion shows. he is constantly looking for ways we After a while, I was interested in an can improve the undergraduate and adventure so when a position opened graduate experience for the students. up in Hong Kong, I embraced it— His positive enthusiasm, work ethic, Hong Kong is a great place to be and fair-minded, balanced approach to all a center for fashion. challenges is a most uplifting and enI was offered a job at Hong Kong livening inspiration every day. Polytechnic University, where I OR An event like the annual fashworked for a range of brands, de- ion show obviously takes a lot of signers and labels there. While I was preparation and effort — what are there, I met my husband … an Aus- some of the things that go on behind tinite. After a two-year long distance the scenes?
graduate will say that the last year and last semester really prepared them for what they experience in the industry. It’s the same for the students at the University Fashion Group because it’s a very real project. This is not theoretical — it’s actually happening, and it’s going to happen in front of a very large audience. As well as putting on this huge event and dealing with the organization and all the aspects that go on with it, they have a great opportunity to develop leadership skills. It’s exciting and it’s intense — I’ve heard some people observe that they’ve never seen so many people work so hard and be so happy about it. OR Who participates in the show? NICOLS All of the senior group is presented, which varies in numbers from year to year but is usually between 20 and 30. Some universities have a system where some students work the show and some don’t. Personally I think that if you’ve spent four years here studying and you’re working with the faculty on your collection, you should show that. ... The intensity of having to create this amount of design products speeds up their decision process and their experience and knowledge of which direction to go on each piece. They become far more professional and able to work and function really well.
OR Do you ever wear anything you’ve designed, or do you do any designing anymore? NICOLS I spend most of my time working with the students and their designs and doing the best I can with them. I still have odd bits of fabric and things that I created way back, but I don’t so much have time to sew and design since I’m here a lot on weekends on top of Monday through Friday. I’ll get inspired and want to make things but then don’t have time, so I pour all that energy in trying to help them the best I can. I have a passion for collecting textiles, so I collect different scarves from places where I travel. I collect textiles that remind me of where I went, and it’s inspiring to look at an interesting piece of fabric. One day I’ll get to make garments from all the fabric I’ve collected, but that probably won’t be for a while. OR Who are your favorite designers? NICOLS I don’t really have favorite designers since I like many, many designers. I find new fresh ideas and approaches inspiring, as well as interesting technologies and fabric treatments … not to mention the creative, the unusual, the incredibly well done, and from something complex and amazing to something very chic and paired down (but beautifully cut). It’s like an art form — three-dimensional art with a function. I find our own senior design students incredibly inspiring as well, and each year they come up with amazing things and its just tremendous to see the work they’re doing. I remember all of the collections and most of the students from the past. I remember both them and their dress. OR Do you ever miss your earlier life designing for bands in London? NICOLS That’s a good thing to do when you’re a young designer, especially because very often I would get those requests from musicians and would have to stay up all night sewing. It was fun, and I think it’s a great thing for fresh graduates to do, but I don’t miss it. I certainly don’t want to stay up all night sewing anymore.
orange runway
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APRIL 2011
THE REAL WORLD designer at Betsey Johnson, since 2009
GRADUATED 2009 HOMETOWN Austin, Texas NOW LIVES IN New York JOB DESCRIPTION I work
STEPHANIE WAGENMAN
very closely with Betsey on a daily basis. The days are filled by meetings about the prints and color, merchandising plans, fabric and vintage vendors plus many more. After all those meetings we play dress-up to plan the garments for the next collection. WHAT SHE LIKES MOST ABOUT HER JOB The in-
teresting people I meet every day and the opportunity to be a integral part of the Betsey Johnson brand.
I also love doing the fashion shows; they are so much work but so much fun. VALUABLE LESSONS LEARNED IN SCHOOL
•
Yes, the textile lab and all the chemistry is relevant. Don’t fall asleep or skip those classes. I went to every class and it really pays off in the real fashion world.
LAUREN POLT
owner of chicka-d, since 2008 GRADUATED 2005 HOMETOWN Clear
Lake, Texas
NOW LIVES IN Aus-
tin, Texas
JOB DESCRIPTION
I do the creative and manufacturing end of the business, which includes designing the collection, photo shoots, catalogs, the website and
LAUREN POLT
STEPHANIE WAGENMAN
TABU L I N G E R I E AU S T I N ’ S M O S T
Unique Boutique for 21 Years!
S W IMW EAR S EPA R ATES
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L I N G E R I E • TOY S BACH ELO RETTE GIFTS H O S IERY
•
P LU S S IZE
UT ALUMNI HIT IT BIG IN THE NATIONAL FASHION SCENE overseeing production. My business partner handles the financial and operational side of the business. WHAT SHE LIKES MOST ABOUT HER JOB I like that ev-
ery day is different and I am always learning something new. My life is a big adventure right now. For example, I’m in Antigua Guatemala as we speak and have been living here for about a month working with a manufacturer and getting production started. Even two months ago I couldn’t have you that I would have been in Guatemala for so long, and much less living in beautiful Antigua and waking up every morning with a view of a volcano. VALUABLE LESSONS LEARNED IN SCHOOL
•
The value of setting goals. My last semester of school I knew I had a full course load, was about to spend every waking hour on my collection and needed to find and internship for the summer in New York. Although there were a lot of sleepless nights I ended up with a 4.0, had completed a technically difficult collection that I was very proud of and found my dream internship in the bridal industry in New York.
AMANDA SCHILLER
designer at RACHEL Rachel Roy, since 2008 GRADUATED CENTRAL BOUTIQUE 1323 S. Congress Ave. | 443-7779 NORTH BOUTIQUE Research and Burnet | 452-8228
2008
HOMETOWN San
Antonio, Texas NOW
LIVES
New York
IN
JOB DESCRIPTION I design for
the woven’s category (there’s a knit and sweater division too), and I also work closely with our production and product development team. My days are mainly filled with fittings, working on concepts and designs for the next season, researching and working with our tech designers on the current season’s developments. It’s a lot of work and long hours, but it’s worth it in the end seeing girls on the streets wearing the clothes.
WHAT SHE LIKES MOST ABOUT HER JOB I love that
I have the creative freedom to design what I really want to and that I get to travel overseas for work. I get concepts and direction from the Creative Director, but she let’s me take it and run with it. I think that’s important for a creative person to have these kind of freedoms at work, although I don’t think it’s very normal. I also just love being in the fashion world in New York City. You meet the most interesting people and see unique fashions on the streets every day. It’s an inspiring place to be.
•
VALUABLE LESSONS LEARNED IN SCHOOL
Have your resume and portfolio updated and ready for ALUMNI Continues on page 15 AMANDA SCHILLER
orange runway INTERNAL AFFAIRS
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APRIL 2011
ALUMNI Continued from page 14
interviews. They constantly reminded us to be working on these things, as well as on online portfolio. I made to sure have my resume and portfolio ready (whatever designs I had done at that point) first semester of senior year. I had interviews for internships the beginning of spring semester so I was so relieved to have all those things done already. I kept up with them and made a website after my senior collection, which I still think is so important to have.
JULIA GOODMAN
assistant buyer for Neiman Marcus Direct, since 2010 GRADUATED 2010 HOMETOWN Houston, Texas NOW LIVES IN Dallas, Texas JOB DESCRIPTION I was
selected to be apart of the Neiman Marcus Executive Development Program last August, and upon completion of the program I was placed in the Product Development Office at Direct, the online buying offices for the company. My daily tasks include processing purchase orders, managing receipts and negotiating with vendors. I am responsible for maintaining two departments, cashmere and private label. My design and fabric knowledge most definitely comes in handy for the private label items.
WHAT SHE LIKES MOST ABOUT HER JOB I like that
my job challenges me every day and that I am able to apply my pre-existing knowledge to learn something new.
STUDENTS TELL ALL ABOUT THEIR INTERNSHIPS ACROSS THE COUNTRY CHRISTOPHER PHAM
Textile and Apparel Design, graduates May 2011
INTERNSHIP Ralph Lauren World Headquarters in NYC. SKILLS I learned a lot from my internship because I got to do a lot. One of the best things I learned was how to properly fit garments. I got to sit in on a lot of fit meetings with my boss, the senior VP of menswear, and Ralph Lauren himself. PROJECTS The idea behind this project was for the interns to demonstrate their understanding of the Ralph Lauren lifestyle and aesthetic. For my project, I designed a 10-look collection with illustrations, a full inspiration and fabric board and styled mannequins that was all based on this very old, very prestigious rowing regatta in England called
the Royal Henley Regatta. I was nominated to present my collection along with five other interns, and it was one of the craziest experiences I’ve ever had. The opportunity to stand up and present an original collection to Jerry Lauren and the entire senior design team was surreal. After my presentation, my design director told me that Jerry Lauren said my presentation was by far the best and the strongest, and he could see my collection being made and sold in the company. ADVICE Don’t be afraid of going after what you want, and don’t be afraid to work hard for it. A lot of people think of internships or jobs with their dream companies are just that, dreams. Nothing is really out of reach if you are willing to work for whatever you want. I also think that showing intuition and determina-
tion in whatever you do is something that you need to succeed in any industry. Because no one is just going to hand you opportunities, you have to earn them. And the only way to earn them is to go after them and work for it.
STEVE CAMPOS
Textile and Apparel Design, graduated May 2010
INTERNSHIP Mario Moya Inc. SKILLS I feel that my experience with designer Mario Moya doubled my skills the time I was there. My position at Mario Moya was very hands-on. I made patterns, draped designs on a form, cut the fabrics and even sewed sometimes. We handled many projects simultaneously and it was easier to see how designers can keep a collection of many looks cohesive and harmonious. As for
now, I am currently designing costumes for a dance company here in New York, and am also working on a personal collection of my own. PROJECTS I worked on so many awesome projects. Once we made a black and red silk charmeuse kimono that was about 12 feet in length. By the end of that, I knew how to work with a fabric that is notoriously hard to work with. ADVICE Wherever you work, never forget your personal goals. If you want it bad enough, and you keep building your skill, opportunity will come looking for you.
LESLIE ANN RUSSELL
Textile and Apparel Design, graduated December 2010
INTERNSHIP Zac Posen SKILLS Design Internships at Zac Posen have a reputation for being
really intense and demanding, but it’s the most rewarding handson experience. I feel that this experience has helped me solidify my skills in draping, pattern making and garment construction. It’s given me a keener eye for details and widened my knowledge of the entire process from start to finish in general. And it already has advanced my career. I worked for Zac Posen again on the 2011 fall collections as a freelance assistant pattern maker. PROJECTS Draping and creating mock-up proposals with the designers, working with the knitwear designer on unusual embroidery and beadwork layouts, assisting Zac and his stylist in model fittings. ADVICE Go in with no expectations and an open mind. There’s no task that is too small or insignificant.
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I was very fortunate to be apart of the University Fashion Group throughout my four years at UT. The experience I gained in my position of Head of Show Production senior year was so valuable for my survival in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;real world.â&#x20AC;? I learned how to balance and juggle many different tasks through the process of planning the show, and was forced to develop time management skills.
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