This year’s “Art of Contrast: Around the World” fashion show drew inspiration from all over the world, with designs mirroring the fashion styles of India, France, China, Russia and others.

The award for top collection went to Amy Tiefermann, junior fashion design major. Her collection was inspired by Greek mythology and included three white silk dresses.

“I was inspired by the goddesses of creativity, charm and beauty,” Tiefermann said. “When I think of Grecian design, I think of draping. This is my interpretation. When I looked at pictures of the three goddesses, they were all naked, and this was my way of dressing them.”

Tiefermann was flushed as she spoke about winning best collection.

“My aesthetic is really not that girly, but I wanted to do this collection to get that out of the way,” Tiefermann said. “I really liked how it turned out, though. It feels great. I’m really happy.”

The award for best single design went to Brittany Miller, junior fashion design major. Miller designed a China-inspired dress.

“I chose China due to the colors,” Miller said. “Chinese fashion is everything. It’s very in and a lot of designers are inspired by Asian cultures.”

Miller, when waiting for the judges’ decision, didn’t even expect to win.

“I personally love, love, love my gown,” Miller said. “When [my model] walked down the runway, I was breathless. I spent so much time on my dress, but I didn’t expect to win.”

Kendall Walter, Fashion Student Organization president, decided on a theme for this year’s show that would allow for a range of inspiration for students.

“We asked FSO members for their input,” Walter said. “In the end, we felt that the ‘Around the World’ theme would allow students to be inspired by a vast variety of things which would, ultimately, enthuse more students to design for the show.”

Walter explained that the “Art of Contrast” show has one of the shortest time restraints and biggest draws of any show during the year.

“I think that there is a little more pressure for this show just because it is hosted at a bigger venue and has much more media and audience attention,” Walter said. “So as a design student myself, I think the pressure we put on ourselves to create inspiring and innovative garments that will win is challenging.”

The time limit, Walter said, affects each design student differently.

“Some students work better under pressure and can produce beautiful garments very fast,” Walter said. “Others have time conflicts with their design and sewing process.”

When it comes down to balancing being FSO president and a student, Walter tries to put her role as president first.

“I want what is best for FSO in the end,” Walter said. “I enjoy creating successful events and being proud of what FSO has accomplished. I feel that from the show.”

With a bump in upperclassmen participation in the show, Walter said that this year’s “Art of Contrast” was an improvement.

“I like how the winning design for single submissions had variety to them,” Walter said. “The upperclassmen showed their skill tonight for sure.”

Rianna Ramey, senior psychology major, won the top model award but was unavailable for an interview.

Contact Alicia Crabtree at [email protected]