Recycled Materials Got An Artistic Touch at FOA's Runway Fashion Show

Submitted by the Festival of Arts:

Artists made the runway their canvas at the Festival of Arts on its final day, Saturday, August 31, competing to create the most imaginative and unique designs using reclaimed, reused or recycled materials. A three-panel judge chose the top looks in four categories and over 3,000 Festival visitors had the opportunity to cast their votes for “People’s Choice Award.”

The Festival Runway Fashion Show was hosted by Christos Garkinos co-owner of Decades and star of Bravo’s “Dukes of Melrose.” Judges included Arbonne CEO Kay Napier, alongside celebrity stylist guest judge, Steven “Cojo” Cojocaru, Celebrity Fashion Critic known for his “Best and Worst Dressed” lists and Lisa M. Berman, The “Go To” Style Diva and Proprietor of Sculpture to Wear Gallery.

“Most Exciting Ensemble with Wow Factor” was awarded to artist Elizabeth McGhee for her design entitled “The Moving Story of Marie Antoinette” created from packing paper, bubble wrap, and embellished with paper beads, loofas, plastic bags and a wig composed of twin and yarn.

Jeweler Adam Neeley won “Most Creative Concept” for his runway look inspired by the image of ‘Flora” in Botticelli’s painting “La Primavera.” Created as an homage to Mother Nature, Neeley created the foundation of his dress from recycled mesh door screens and covered it with natural foliage including moss, magnolia, banana, orchard, and ivy.

Jon Seeman won “Most Innovative Use of Materials” with a steampunk inspired design featuring a concoction of vintage artifacts including compasses, keys, copper coils, and rusted gears. Grabbing the spotlight was Seeman’s heavy metal pooch, “Gearbox,” that accompanied his model down the runway.

W. Bradley Elsberry received the award “Most Glamorous & Elegant ‘Red Carpet’ Worthy Creation for his ensemble entitled “Watershed.” Using discarded acrylic house paint, Brad created a snowy white coat, which the model removed to reveal a sky blue gown reminiscent of falling water. Elsberry’s runway also impressed the crowd and took home the highly coveted “People’s Choice Award.”

The winner from each category received a $1,000 cash prize. Celebrity Judge Cojo gave out a special award to wood worker Richard Evans. Entries from artists Michelle Lance and Brittany Ryan were so impressive that Judge Kay Napier decided to make everyone a winner awarding each participating artist a $100 gift certificate towards Arbonne products.

Sponsor Arbonne got into the spirit of recycled fashions with Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Michael D’Arminio opening the show in a special Arbonne branded suit. The exclusive attire featured a bespoke jacket and pants with a repeated custom print of the grass-green Arbonne logo, designed by Arbonne’s Creative Director Arlette Madenlian. The suit’s black buttons are bottle caps from the Arbonne Aromassentials products and D’Arminio’s accessories including a felt black hat and paper bow tie.