Design by: Paige Ryan
Design by: Teagan Lindsay
dedicated practice.” Another constant of the show has been the years of support from David Shwaery and Gerry Hammel of Squires Salon. Over the past two decades they’ve created the model’s runway looks; Neil expresses his true appreciation for, “their commitment in supporting us and the next generation of design thinkers.” Although nothing can compare to the amount of work and preparation that goes into building a collection for a runway show in the real world, Neil is well aware that the Apparel Design students understand “the need for commitment and execution of the highest standards.” He would like to think that, “collectively, the Apparel department is arming the students with the technical, creative, problem solving and communication skills that will aid their progression into their chosen fields post RISD, forming the basis of a fulfilling career.” Many AP Graduates, even those from the class of 2016, are already pursuing their passions, from research to entrepreneurship. Collection 2017 may be your only chance to see these designers without having to “periscope,” an industry term for having to watch the runway through your smartphone at a show. That is, if you’re even able to get a seat at their show in the first place.
May 13 with shows at 4pm and 7pm at the George V. Meehan Auditorium at Brown University. 225 Hope Street. RISD.edu/Collection
STYLISH ALUMNI RISD’s Apparel Design alumni have gone on to become some of the most well-known names in the fashion industry, including: • American fashion icon Nicole Miller (AP ‘73), who built a clothing line and then branched into furniture and home products, eventually becoming an entire lifestyle brand. • Tae Ashida (AP ‘87), daughter of legendary designer Jun Ashida, whose work has been used in uniforms for major corporations, including at Tokyo Disneyland. • Marcia Patmos (AP ‘91), who was honored with the 2015 International Woolmark Prize for women’s wear, which included international distribution at Harvey Nichols and Saks Fifth Avenue. • Tess Giberson (AP ‘96), who began her career at Calvin Klein and later launched her own collection, earning her one of the first Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation awards. • Nicole Romano (AP ‘00), a former intern for Nicole Miller, whose jewelry has been worn by many trendy celebrities, including the cast of Sex and the City. • Robert Geller (AP ‘01), who began as an intern at Marc Jacobs, eventually launching his own line that earned him GQ’s 2009 award for “Best New Designer in America.” • Sally Lapointe (AP ‘06), who has dressed celebrities, including Lady Gaga and Katy Perry. • Alumni with top positions at leading design houses, including Vanessa Pang (AP ’95), senior design director for Michael Kors Men’s Collections, and Julia Han (AP ’15), assistant designer at Calvin Klein.
Design by: Layla Saito
Design by: Redat Davison