Birmingham Fashion Week Rising Design Star Contest

February 2013 was an exciting time in the Irvin household.  Rachel had made it to the second level of Birmingham Fashion Week: Rising Design Star Contest.  It was officially announced at the Birmingham Art Museum, after Rachel's costume had been displayed in the museum, along with thirty-nine other costumes.  Thirty costumes were chosen to show on the runway in Pepper Place, downtown Birmingham.  In two nights, all thirty costumes strutted their stuff and only sixteen continued on.

And who do you think was chosen to model said beautiful costume?  Moi, of course.  :D

The costume was made of window screen for the body, white trash bags for lining, Mardi Gras beads for the halter strap, bath poofs for decoration, and grommets and brads for fastening.  It was highly uncomfortable because it didn't bend enough to sit down in and the screen was scratchy but she double-lined it with trash bags so it wasn't horrible.
A few confessions and tips from a one-time model: if you model in February, take a blanket and some snacks.  We didn't get to eat until 10:30 that night and it was 43 degrees in the tent where we waited before the runway.  Also, try to smile.  :)

Sadly, Rachel's design did not garner her a spot in the sixteen that moved on to level three.  However, the contest resulted in a fashion blog article, an article in a magazine, and several costuming jobs for theater companies and schools.
Because of her other jobs, Rachel has decided not to compete in BFW this year.  However, check back for more exciting projects she is working on.

~~the lil' sis