Chicago Fashion Students Show Promise

Alexis Aprati/Columbia College Chicago (Photo by Amy Vorel)

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There were some home runs and major strikeouts at last Friday night’s Dress Code, showcasing Chicago fashion design students, but we give everyone an A for effort. Contrary to Thursday evening's safe, and somewhat dull, fashion, this emerging talent isn't afraid to break the mold. While we're not quite sure if covering your body with a sheet is the latest trend, and frankly, garage-chic just isn’t our style. But one thing’s for sure: originality dominated this runway.

Alexis Aprati’s attention to detail with her carefully stitched designs on an already inventive shape, and Anna Brown’s perfectly seemed garments opened the show with a bang. We'd definitely strut our stuff in Amber Johnson's simple black ensemble with a shingled skirt and muted, chunky scarf, and while orange makes us look like a pumpkin, Angie Ortega’s high-necked blouse with a high-waisted, multi-layered skirt (or is it a dress) blew us away. And Jessica Mikesell’s throwback to 1920's flappers with a modern touch proved that creativity and ready to wear merge with ease. Lastly, Fraley Le stole the show with his final sea-foam ball gown masterpiece, and when he walked the stage during the finale, he was definitely relishing his moment. Let’s hope he has many more to come.