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IN THIS ISSUE | APRIL 20113 A PASSION FOR FASHIONUniversity Fashion Group celebrates fashion-forward students.

4 INSIDE THE DESIGNERS’ WORKSHOPGo behind studio doors for the upcoming annual fashion show.

4 HAIR-RAISINGAustin salon prepares for a glamorous evening of fashion.

5 A STITCH IN TIMETrends of tomorrow hit the worldwide fashion scene.

13 THE ROOT OF ALL EVEFashion 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 AFFAIRSStudents score killer internships with renowned designers across the U.S.

7 INGENUITYTextiles and Apparel students exhibit their newest creations.

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Surrounded by half-sewn garments and runway pan-els 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 experi-ence in the fashion industry, both in Austin and around the country. Members have the chance to gain exclusive back-stage work experience at fash-ion shows during New York and LA Fashion weeks.

The club also helps UT stu-dents 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 in-volved.”

UFG officers host charity events, suggest fashion intern-ships, help students build port-folios and invite influential de-signers 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 opportu-nity for students to display their garments to a wide audience of fashion connoisseurs.

“It’s a lot of work; we do ev-erything,” said junior apparel design major Marissa Chap-man. “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 pres-sured into [being UFG trea-surer], but it’s been awesome being this hands-on during a fashion show,” she said. “I have gotten so much experi-ence.”

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 help-ing with the group’s public re-lations, 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 organi-zation they have come to love.

“I would love to keep you all forever, but some of you will be graduating soon,” said Eve

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 inter-ested in fashion are encouraged to join UFG in the fall.

A PASSION FOR FASHIONFASHION TALKBy Stephanie Bathurst

BYSTEPHANIEBATHURST

APRIL 2011orange runway4

PRODUCTION Continues on page 12

4

As bobby pins fly through the air, a team of hairstyl-ists skillfully

maneuvers their way around the chaotic maze backstage at UT’s annual fashion produc-tion. That’s how the staff at Cobalt Blue salon likes it: they thrive off of the crazy atmo-sphere when the show rolls around each spring.

“If I say ‘quick, I need a pin,’ I suddenly have four peo-ple throwing pins at me,” said Brandy Veysey, a Cobalt Blue stylist and the salon’s event co-ordinator. “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 produc-tion, 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 There-sa 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.” Al-though the event takes place in April, the team started prepar-ing 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,” Vey-sey 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, crimp-ing, 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 ev-eryone at Cobalt Blue,” Ellers said. “It takes a lot of courage to make this all happen.”

HAIR-RAISINGLOCAL SALON TURNS HEADS IN PREPARATION

FOR FASHION SHOW BY SAMANTHA FANELLI

INSIDE THE DESIGNERS’ WORKSHOPSTUDENTS CRAFT ORIGINAL APPAREL BEHIND STUDIO DOORS

GO FIGURE By Lara Haase

BY DESTINEE HODGE

The annual UT textiles and

apparel fashion show is a behe-

moth 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 suc-

cess. The event, which features fashion collections designed by UT textiles and apparel students, is completely spon-

sored 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 basical-

ly 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 Uni-versity’s largest events. Bego works specifically with back-stage 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 dead-

lines,” Bravo said.The seniors and the University Fashion Group

began their preparations for this year’s show, “Innova-tion,” 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.

5

Cobalt Blue, The Offi cial Stylists of The Fashion “Innovation” Show

APRIL 2011orange runway 5A STITCH IN TIME: FASHION OF THE FUTURE

The Paris run-way, the New York runway and now – the Orange Run-

way. The designs of “Inno-vation” 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 stu-dents. Here’s a sneak peek of what you’re going to see next Thursday in the Frank Erwin Center:

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 follow-ing due to her use of sustain-able fabrics and dyes to create modern pieces. The brand was featured in New York Fashion Week’s Green Show last September, as

well as this spring’s LA Fashion Week.Senior Abigail Rodriguez hopes to

have the same success. In her collec-

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 col-lection with non-toxic paints she or-dered online. DIGITAL PRINTING

The Division of Textiles and Ap-parel is one of the only undergraduate programs that offers a course in digital printing. This method, which is grow-ing popular in the fashion world, in-volves 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 pre-carious 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 a s s i g n -ments; one d e s i g n e r even used

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 col-lection by fashion blog, The Fashion Informer. LED TECHNOLOGY

It may have been Katy Perry who lit up the Metropolitan Museum of Art Cos-tume Institute’s annual gala last year, but senior Monica Salem believes that light-up dresses are more suited for Holiday Barbie. Salem’s collection includes an evening gown with a red bow illuminat-ed 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 incor-porated right into the dress.”

BY JORDAN D. SCHRAEDER

MARCH OF THE MODELSBy Associated Press

6

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

Fashion show>innovation>apr i l > 2 1 > 2 0 1 1

SPECIAL THANKS TO

• 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 •

BEHIND THE SEAMS

BACK IN BLACK (AND WHITE)

7INGENUITY ORANGE RUNWAY | APRIL 2011

AT ORANGE RUNWAY’S

EXCLUSIVE SHOOT PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY RESHMA KIRPALANI

FIT FOR A BRIDE

ALL THAT GLITTERS

BLACK-TIE AFFAIR

9INGENUITYAPRIL 2011 | ORANGE RUNWAY INGENUITY ORANGE RUNWAY | APRIL 20118

LINDSEY WETESNIKdesigner

HEIDI MASHAKAdesigner

BRITNI WHITTINGTONdesigner

MIRANDA WARDdesigner

MEGHAN MEHLdesigner

RACHEL BRADYdesigner

DANIEL GUINNdesigner

BRIANA GARDNERdesigner

MEGHAN MCCABEdesigner

ABIGAIL RODRIGUEZdesigner

UNCOMMON

THREADA DOZEN LONGHORN DESIGNERS DEBUT THEIR LATEST PROJECTS

PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE BATHURST

ALYSSA GARCIAdesigner

MORE ABOUT

DESIGNERS

ON PAGE 11

MORE ABOUT

MODELS

ON PAGE 10

model

model

model

model

model

TYLER NEAL

model

model

model

model

BART FREDERICK

CRYSTAL COLMENEROdesigner

IRENE CARTER

JASMINE MILLS

SARAH KISLINGBURY

AUDREY CAMELO

MELANIE MCQUARY

LAUREN FUERTES

NATALIA PRIETO

INGENUITYAPRIL 2011 | ORANGE RUNWAY10

MODEL CITIZENSMELANIE MCQUARYDesign and Retail Merchandising juniorFAVORITE TREND wooden heels, leather watches and us-ing different textures for one garment. BEST BEAUTY ADVICE just smile!MAKEUP MUST-HAVE Bare Es-sentials mascaraIN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE in New York and loving life.

SARAH KISLINGBURYFrench juniorFAVORITE TREND the slightly androgynous look that allows personality and grace of move-ment to define you.IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE living in France.

IRENE CARTERTextiles and Apparel Design juniorFAVORITE TREND Maxi dress-es and espadrillesBEST 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 chap-stick and sunscreenIN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE successful with a collection of my own.

AUDREY CAMELORetail Merchandising seniorFAVORITE TREND laceBEST BEAUTY ADVICE drink plenty of waterIN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE traveling and experiencing new cultures.

LAUREN FUERTESRetail Merchandising senior FAVORITE TREND one shoul-der garmentsBEST BEAUTY ADVICE be comfortable and match

IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE the owner of a boutique special-izing in custom-fit denim.

NATALIA PRIETOPublic Relations seniorFAVORITE TREND ankle boots. They look great on!BEST BEAUTY ADVICE nat-ural hair and makeup makes you look classy and sexy.MAKEUP MUST-HAVE mas-cara! I absolutely cannot live without it.IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE work-ing in entertainment PR. Maybe I’ll open my own firm one day.

JASMINE MILLSBiology and Pre-Med freshmanFAVORITE TREND every-thing American-inspired! I love over-sized T-shirts, cut-off jeans, leather jackets and boots.BEST BEAUTY ADVICE Ex-tra virgin olive oil is a great makeup remover, and sugar can be used as a cheap exfo-liant.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 NEALJournalism sophomoreFAVORITE TREND minimal-ism. I’m a huge fan of Calvin Klein. Simple is beautiful.BEST BEAUTY ADVICE get plenty of sleep.IN 10 YEARS, I’LL BE writ-ing for a magazine and being fabulous. I see myself being happy.

BART FREDERICKGovernment junior

STRIKING STUDENTS DO MUCH MORE THAN STRIKE POSES BY JORDAN D. SCHRAEDER | PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE BATHURST

INGENUITY ORANGE RUNWAY | APRIL 2011 11HEIDI MASHAKAHOMETOWN Austin, TXCOLLECTION I want to go into the bridal industry after gradua-tion, so I wanted to find a way to market my collection to brides af-ter their big day. I’m calling it the Honeymoon Collection - it’s perfect for a honeymoon in Hawaii!INSPIRATION 1950s Hawai-ian resort wearFAVORITE TREND mixed patternsLEAST FAVORITE TREND ripped jeansIF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE a graphic designer.I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH George Harrison, because I’m a huge Beatles fan.FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT the traditions

BRITNI WHITTINGTONHOMETOWN Longview, TXCOLLECTION Vintage-inspired girly fashion that can be dressed up or dressed casuallyINSPIRATION Vintage eras and the brand ChloeFAVORITE TREND feminine clothing inspired by Rodarte and Black Swan.LEAST FAVORITE TREND CrocsIF 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 Stre-isand because they are both genu-ine 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 WARDHOMETOWN San Antonio, TXCOLLECTION 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 tunicFAVORITE TREND loose-fitting boyfriend teesLEAST FAVORITE TREND UGG boots! (Especially with shorts)IF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE in real estate or a psychologist.

I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH Ellen Degeneres. She’s such a funny, smart and kind-hearted person.FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT tradition

MEGHAN MEHLHOMETOWN El Paso, TXCOLLECTION 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 colorLEAST 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 in-credibly 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 COLMENEROHOMETOWN El Paso, TXCOLLECTION My collection has a very feminine, romantic and playful feel.FAVORITE TREND Bright color and floralsLEAST FAVORITE TREND Dis-tressed jeansIF 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 GARCIAHOMETOWN Katy, TXCOLLECTION 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-block-ingLEAST FAVORITE TREND over-sized T-shirts and sweatersIF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE a psychologistI’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 BRADYHOMETOWN Liberty, TXCOLLECTION My collection is inspired by textures and profes-sional women on the go.FAVORITE TREND Mixing and matching patterned fabricsLEAST FAVORITE TREND Harem pantsIF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE a fashion stylist.I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH Coco Chanel to ask about her fas-cinating and rebellious life. FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT the atmosphere and pride that Long-horn students share

DANIEL GUINNHOMETOWN Tyler, TX

COLLECTION A lot of yellow, crisp lines, classic styles and a few surprise innovationsINSPIRATION Classic

moviesFAVORITE TREND the shoulder patchLEAST FAVORITE TREND athletic shorts with collared shirtsIF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE doing ministry with high school students or coaching soccerI’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 com-mon bond with people who go to or went to the University.

LINDSEY WETESNIKHOMETOWN San Antonio, TXCOLLECTION peacocks, chiffon and corsetsINSPIRATION my summer intern-ship in LondonFAVORITE TREND I’m not a trendy person; I prefer classic style lines.LEAST FAVORITE TREND holes in jeansIF I WEREN’T A DESIGNER, I’D BE an actress.I’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH Princess DianaFAVORITE THING ABOUT UT liv-ing in Austin and the way we all network after graduation.

BRIANA GARDNERHOMETOWN Dallas, TXCOLLECTION My collection is a fusion of ethnic elements, mixed prints and proportions.INSPIRATION an amazing song called “Sunrise” by an experi-mental band named Yeasayer. Be-cause they draw their inspiration from Bollywood and different forms of world music, my ideas

were stirred in that direction. FAVORITE TREND Sheer maxi skirts. I think it’s a trend that will continue to evolve and I’m fasci-nated by anything sheer! I love the challenge of layering and work-ing around the issue of exposed undergarments.

LEAST FAVORITE TREND T-shirt verbiageIF I WEREN’T A DESIGN-ER, 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 experi-ence would be noth-

ing short of entertaining.FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT the Blanton Art Museum. It’s my fa-vorite place on campus and it’s been a pleasure to be constantly in-spired by the different exhibitions.

MEGHAN MCCABEHOMETOWN Richmond, TXCOLLECTION 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 spe-cial 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 sus-tainability and cooperation.FAVORITE THING ABOUT UT the teachers. They have been invalu-able at advancing my knowledge as I move into the professional realm. ABIGAL RODRIGUEZHOMETOWN Austin, TXCOLLECTION 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!

MEET THE FACES BEHIND THE FASHIONS TAILORED FOR THE RUNWAY BY JORDAN D. SCHRAEDER

IN

STYLEINNOVATORS

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12APRIL 2011

orange runway“That was a higher level of

sewing and using more diffi-cult fabric,” Bravo said.

The show in the spring is the final section of the stu-dents’ 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 com-plete 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 tech-niques.

Although the students are not responsible for contract-ing the models for their col-lection, the designers must

provide measurements for all their garments so the cloth-ing fits properly on the run-way. The students are also responsible for suggesting the type of models they want for their collections and con-ducting fittings.

“We need the right model for the right garment,” Bego said. “Certain clothing has to be the right color for the per-son’s hair and eye color.”

The show uses Sue Webber Productions to hire profes-sional models, Austin salon Cobalt Blue for hair and Sep-hora 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 fash-ion 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 be-ing assigned to a designer, the dresser becomes familiar with the garments and learns the most efficient way of handling them. It is impor-tant 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, Chris-topher Cline, a profes-sional music producer and UT-San Antonio lec-turer, 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 shoul-ders that we don’t want to let anyone down,” Bravo said. “[So] it’s very well-organized and eerily calm [backstage.] You do feel pressure and it is intense, but it’s an exciting kind of intensity.”

According to the advis-ers, 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 col-lections of 22 seniors.

PRODUCTION Continued from page 4

13

APRIL 2011orange runway 13THE ROOT OF ALL EVEJust as it’s hard to judge a

book by its cover, it’s hard to tell the past of a profes-sor by his or her current profession—particularly at

a university that draws talent from all over the world to educate its students.

Textiles and apparel students who work with senior lecturer Eve Nicols know this to be true, as Nicols’ Eng-lish accent indicates only the tip of her vast experience in the world of fashion. The same woman who helps students with their senior collections each spring has worked in Milan, Hong Kong, and even helped design for CBS in the 1980’s, fashioning outfits for the likes of Adam and the Ants and Duran Duran.

Nicols’ dedication to fostering bud-ding fashion designers has launched the annual spring fashion show to new levels. Recently, she was one of seven professors to receive the President’s As-sociates Teach-ing Excellence Award for 2010-2011. We caught up with Nicols, busy amidst preparations for this years show, themed “Inno-vation.”

O R A N G E R U N W A Y Many of your former and current students mention your career as a source of inspiration for their own careers and dreams. What are some of your highlights of your career?

EVE NICOLS I worked in Milan in 1981 and was able to sell designs before I started teaching at Brighton Polytechnic University in England in 1983, doing textiles and designs and putting on their fashion shows.

After a while, I was interested in an adventure so when a position opened up in Hong Kong, I embraced it—Hong Kong is a great place to be and a center for fashion.

I was offered a job at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where I worked for a range of brands, de-signers and labels there. While I was there, I met my husband … an Aus-tinite. After a two-year long distance

romance, he asked me to marry him and move to Austin. Much like my leap of faith going to Hong Kong, I came to Austin even though I didn’t know what I was going to do when I got here, especially since there wasn’t a lot of fashion design going on in Austin in the summer of 1996. Then I met the head of the program here, and about six months later a po-sition opened up.

Sometimes I feel like I never left the building because it’s so busy and exciting and there is so much to do here. I really enjoy the opportunity to share the experiences I had in the in-dustry. That is my motivation for do-ing this — to provide the best oppor-tunities to students in the program.

OR What most influences your teaching style?

NICOLS In my first teaching job in 1983, I taught with professor

John Miles, who went on to be head of the Royal Col-lege of Art in their Fashion Textiles Mar-keting program in London. I was highly im-pressed with his dedication to the students and to make every aspect of what

we took on the very best it could be. I was very impressed with the way he totally focused in on helping stu-dents — he was a dynamo. I had his picture in my office to remind me to get in early, get it done, and don’t give up.

Our new director of the School of Human Ecology, Dr. Sheldon Ekland-Olson, also inspires me as he is constantly looking for ways we can improve the undergraduate and graduate experience for the students. His positive enthusiasm, work ethic, fair-minded, balanced approach to all challenges is a most uplifting and en-livening inspiration every day.

OR An event like the annual fash-ion show obviously takes a lot of preparation and effort — what are some of the things that go on behind the scenes?

NICOLS We book the dates and the key people in-volved 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 semes-ter 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 ev-ery student some publicity any way we can. Students work on completing the three gar-ments 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 be-cause 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 introduc-tion to some of what goes on in tex-tiles and apparel.

OR How is the show’s theme cho-sen?

NICOLS The theme is a word that encapsulates the feeling of the group of seniors. One year they had “cel-ebrate,” another year they had “lumi-nescence” 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 in-novation — some have technical as-pects of innovation, some have inno-vation 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

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 happen-ing, and it’s going to happen in front of a very large audience. As well as putting on this huge event and deal-ing with the organization and all the aspects that go on with it, they have a great opportunity to develop lead-ership 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 be-tween 20 and 30. Some universities have a system where some students work the show and some don’t. Per-sonally I think that if you’ve spent four years here studying and you’re working with the faculty on your col-lection, you should show that. ...

The intensity of having to create this amount of design products speeds up their decision process and their ex-perience and knowledge of which di-rection to go on each piece. They be-come 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 inspir-ing to look at an interesting piece of fabric. One day I’ll get to make garments from all the fabric I’ve col-lected, but that probably won’t be for a while.

OR Who are your favorite design-ers?

NICOLS I don’t really have fa-vorite 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 incred-ibly well done, and from something complex and amazing to some-thing 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 stu-dents incredibly inspiring as well, and each year they come up with amazing things and its just tremen-dous 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, espe-cially because very often I would get those requests from musicians and would have to stay up all night sew-ing. 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.

BYAMYTHORNTON

2011 FASHION SHOW DIRECTOR EVE NICOLS TALKS INNOVATION, HER CAREER & DURAN DURAN

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STEPHANIE WAGENMANdesigner at Betsey Johnson, since 2009

GRADUATED 2009HOMETOWN Austin, TexasNOW LIVES IN New YorkJOB DESCRIPTION I work

very closely with Betsey on a daily basis. The days are filled by meet-ings about the prints and color, merchandis ing plans, fabric and vintage vendors plus many more. After all those meetings we play dress-up to plan the garments for the next collec-tion.WHAT SHE LIKES MOST ABOUT HER JOB The in-teresting people I meet every day and the opportuni-ty 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 POLTowner of chicka-d, since 2008GRADUATED 2005HOMETOWN Clear Lake, TexasNOW LIVES IN Aus-tin, TexasJOB DESCRIPTION I do the creative and manufactur-ing end of the business, which includes de-signing the col-lection, photo shoots, catalogs, the website and

overseeing production. My business partner handles the fi-nancial and operational side of the business.WHAT SHE LIKES MOST ABOUT HER JOB I like that ev-ery day is different and I am al-ways learning something new. My life is a big adventure right now. For example, I’m in Anti-gua Guatemala as we speak and have been living here for about a month working with a manu-facturer 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 morn-ing 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 wak-ing 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 tech-nically difficult collection that I was very proud of and found my dream internship in the bridal indus-try in New York.

AMANDA SCHILLERdesigner at RACHEL Rachel Roy, since 2008GRADUATED 2008HOMETOWN San Antonio, TexasNOW LIVES IN New York

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 de-signs for the next season, re-searching 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 inspir-ing place to be.VALUABLE LESSONS LEARNED IN SCHOOL• Have your resume and port-folio updated and ready for

THE REAL WORLD UT ALUMNI HIT IT BIG IN THE NATIONAL FASHION SCENE

ALUMNI Continues on page 15

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APRIL 2011orange runway 15interviews. They constantly reminded us to be working on these things, as well as on on-line portfolio. I made to sure have my resume and portfo-lio 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 col-lection, which I still think is so important to have.

JULIA GOODMANassistant buyer for Neiman Marcus Direct, since 2010GRADUATED 2010HOMETOWN Houston, TexasNOW LIVES IN Dallas, TexasJOB 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 com-pany. My daily tasks include processing purchase orders, managing receipts and ne-gotiating 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 ap-ply my pre-existing knowl-edge to learn something new.VALUABLE LESSONS LEARNED IN SCHOOL• I was very fortunate to be apart of the University Fash-ion Group throughout my four years at UT. The experi-ence I gained in my position of Head of Show Production senior year was so valuable for my survival in the “real world.” I learned how to bal-ance and juggle many differ-ent tasks through the process of planning the show, and was forced to develop time management skills.

ALUMNI Continued from page 14 INTERNAL AFFAIRSSTUDENTS TELL ALL ABOUT THEIR INTERNSHIPS ACROSS THE COUNTRYCHRISTOPHER PHAMTextile and Apparel De-sign, graduates May 2011

INTERNSHIP Ralph Lauren World Head-quarters in NYC. SKILLS I learned a lot from my internship be-cause 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 mens-wear, and Ralph Lauren himself. PROJECTS The idea behind this project was for the interns to demon-strate their understand-ing of the Ralph Lauren lifestyle and aesthetic. For my project, I de-signed a 10-look collec-tion 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 Re-gatta. I was nominated to present my collection along with five other interns, and it was one of the craziest experi-ences I’ve ever had. The opportunity to stand up and present an original collection to Jerry Lau-ren and the entire senior design team was sur-real. After my presenta-tion, my design director told me that Jerry Lau-ren 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 re-ally 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 CAMPOSTextile and Apparel De-sign, graduated May 2010

INTERNSHIP Mario Moya Inc.SKILLS I feel that my experience with design-er Mario Moya doubled my skills the time I was there. My position at Mario Moya was very hands-on. I made pat-terns, draped designs on a form, cut the fab-rics and even sewed sometimes. We handled many projects simulta-neously and it was eas-ier to see how designers can keep a collection of many looks cohesive and harmonious. As for

now, I am currently de-signing 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 RUSSELLTextile and Apparel Design, graduated December 2010

INTERNSHIP Zac PosenSKILLS Design Intern-ships at Zac Posen have a reputation for being

really intense and de-manding, but it’s the most rewarding hands-on experience. I feel that this experience has helped me solidify my skills in draping, pat-tern making and gar-ment 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 pat-tern maker.PROJECTS Draping and creating mock-up proposals with the de-signers, working with the knitwear designer on unusual embroidery and beadwork layouts, assisting Zac and his stylist in model fit-tings.ADVICE Go in with no expectations and an open mind. There’s no task that is too small or insignificant.

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