The Fashion Institute of Technology has recently received some red carpet treatment from the snow sports industry. FIT students were invited to participate in an outerwear design contest and display their entries at two major trade shows. Contestants received prime display venues to showcase their latest creations and introduce their creativity to a vast new marketplace. FIT teamed up with SnowSports Industries America (SIA) to host the first unveiling at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center during the SIA.04 SnowSports Show.
Students participating in the Outerwear program at the Institute submitted outerwear apparel designs for the contest developed through the Art Portfolio course in the program. Michele Bryant, who wrote and taught the art course, was instrumental in creating the contest for the students to participate in. Neidi Cooley, another major player, was responsible for bringing the idea of the contest to SIA. She also hosted the students at the show and introduced them to many key exhibitors.
Fashion industry veterans judged the entries and chose a winner to be announced at SIA.04. Contest participants were judged on the following criteria: innovative design, attention to performance details and appropriate application of fabric and trim. “This contest provided an exciting and educational experience for the students,” stated Ferro. “All the students who participated in the contest and came to the Show were extremely committed and so enthusiastic about the opportunity,” she added.
Shannon Adam, current resident of Manhattan, was dubbed the winner at the Opening Night Party at this year's show. Adam designed a line of snow sports apparel for either boarders or skiers inclusive of jackets, vests, pants, bibs, mid and first layers all of which were inspired by computer circuitry and wiring. “I entered the contest as a challenge to myself to see if I could design a line of snow sports apparel that was new and fresh,” stated Adam.
Katrin Grascher, a native Austrian, was named runner-up. One of the first students to graduate from the certificate program, Grascher submitted a women's ski collection for review. “I always found myself buying men's clothes and was never quite satisfied,” commented Grascher. “I wanted my clothes to fit right, perform under all conditions, while never sacrificing style,” she added. As a result of her efforts and inclusion in the program, Grascher has secured employment with Marker USA in Salt Lake City.
Other contestants and students in the certificate program include: Lyn German, Dave Mertes, Howard Howell, Rebecca Dow, Jorden Chan-Mendez, Ho Jin Lee, Morgan Shapero and Janelle Poe.
The Outerwear and Performance Apparel Certificate Program launched in Spring of 2002 and requires students to complete six courses to receive a certificate. It is spearheaded by Mary Ann Ferro who developed the program with the assistance of Francesca Sterlacci.
