Iowa State has swept two out of three nights at OFW Designer Showcases! Whitney Rorah won Designer Showcase III, earning her a $500 check made possible by SAC Federal Credit Union. This is Rorah's second OFW win, with her first being the Fashion Institute Fashion Cup last August. Her evening wear line showcased unique surface design and laser cuts.
Six designers debuted their work on March 14. Declared, which has a celebrity following, featured cheeky beach looks modeled by "Merbabes" and included an actual mermaid carried down the runway by two male models. The mermaid tale was made by OFW veteran designer, Dan Richters. Jillian Fellers showcased a line of timelessly beautiful bridal gowns accessorized with jewelry from Borsheims Fine Jewelry and Gifts. Erin Tepper of Ezradella featured sumptuous fabrics and reversible sequins and trendy silhouettes in her first showing at OFW. Judy Bales' avant garde collection featured usual materials such as land mine wire and zip ties in structural pieces worn over black full-body leotards. Kate Walz s howcased her final collection as a high school student, inspired by Versailles in France, and included stunning structural silhouettes and luxurious fabrics.
The winner was selected by a panel of seven Omaha-based industry experts. To learn more about the OFW selection process, click here. Interested in becoming an OFW designer? Apply Now - accepting applications through April 3 for August 17-24 season.
View Borsheims Red Carpet Photos by Herb Thompson
View Saturday night coverage in Omaha World Herald