Threads 2018 Challenge

Each year the sewing magazine Threads issues the members of ASDP a design challenge. The themes are different each year, some of the past ones have been the LBD, knit fabrics, a focus on sleeves, and pattern manipulation. The challenges are only open to qualified ASDP members and offer an opportunity to try new ideas and work outside our design and construction ruts. The themes are announced at our annual conference and members must submit an application by early spring to participate. They do first-round judging in early autumn through submitted photos, with final-round judging at the annual ASDP Educational Conference.

With the 2018 Conference to be held in Dallas, TX the theme was tied in by challenging members to create a special-occasion look that combined innovation, luxury, and updated 1950s styles for today. I have participated many times and made it through the first-round on several occasions, but now I can announce that I was chosen as one of the winners! To be included amongst some of the most talented designers I’ve ever meet is so gratifying (Oh yeah, there was a cash prize that almost covered what I spent on the materials). With the first publication rights belonging to the magazine, all the winners get to keep it secret until the pictures appear a few months later in Threads.

My design was created from multiple layers. A ruched sweetheart bustier in black silk velvet used a separating zipper as the center back closure. I found a fabulous silk shantung for the full skirt and used multiple layers of petticoat to support the volume. The same blue silk was used for the jacket. Couture details like custom fabric-covered buttons, hidden organza pockets in the skirt and beaded detail on the back of the jacket.