Young Philly designers reveal their fashion vision

The event was billed as an "Evening of Innovation," and the young designers who showcased their creations Saturday at the annual Philadelphia University Senior Fashion Show didn't hold back.

Before a nearly full house at the Academy of Music, elegant, whimsical, sexy, sporty, edgy, eco-friendly, and romantic alternately ruled the runway, with inspirations ranging from factory girl to plastic surgery, from Brothers Grimm to futuristic flowers.

Truly, you just never know what inspires.

Japanese armor was the wellspring for Jill Garvey's metallic-bodice, navy-bottom fitted dress, with red tassels and leather sash. Garvey showed her range, winning Best of Show for her head-turning Wuthering Heights-inspired full-length fitted white gown.

But Nicole Dudley's collection was fun, with her retro-beach-party nylon spandex swimwear a crowd pleaser, especially the one-piece with pink tie.

Helene Curley's version of X-ray vision was an ensemble of shiny skinny pants, airy silky tank, and leather cropped vest. She also presented a metallic spandex collection with an exoskeleton-of-insects theme.

Christi Jefferson played with hard and soft in her silk-and-leather collection that included a pink tulip skirt with leather halter.

And deterioration of purity inspired Bianca De Pietro's evening offerings, which blended satin, crepe, and hand crochet. It was voted Most Creative Collection. Best Senior Collection went to Rachel Wendling for her gowns featuring wire mesh, crystal beading, satin, and silk charmeuse.

See more photos from the student fashion show at www.philly.com/phillyfashion

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