2023 Student Challenge

Casual Couture: Transforming Fashion at Every Level

This year's challenge is to create a garment that can change from one level of dress to another. This garment can either level up OR level down.

There is no need for complex changes; we would like to see these changes happen on the runway during the fashion show.

Take a close look at the 5 levels of dress shown on this year’s poster.

• Gym/running gear
• Hiking and high-end sportswear
• Street-wear
• Office-Professional
• Evening wear/Bridal

Rules:

• Fabrics may be either new or taken from recycled or upcycled garments.
• The items that make up your entry must be sewn together, with all visible seams properly finished (no frayed edges unless an intended part of the design).
• No glue is allowed for construction purposes; you may use unconventional methods for joining pieces in your design as long as the transformation is repeatable. This is a sewing and design challenge.
• Your entry must have been made in the current year.
• The minimum age requirement to enter is 16, and entrants must be able to verify student status.
• Submissions must be received by 10:00 p.m. EST, September 30, 2023.
• $10.00 for each entry must be submitted with the online submission form. Limit of three entries per participant.

Entry Registration Form

Challenge Terms and Submission Requirements

Submission Requirements:

Photos:

• 2 full-view photographs of the garment - front and back (required).
• 2 full-view photographs of the garment after transformation - front and back (required).
• 4 detail photographs -transformation process, construction details, technique photos, etc.
• Please photograph your entry on a dress form or person. If you use a person, please crop out the face even if you are not the model - no faces are allowed! This is a blind judging.

Artist’s Statement:

• Introduction: In 50 to 100 words, tell us about your concept for your design.
• About the Garment: In 100 words or less, describe the garment’s design and any notable information about the pattern work, color choice, and fabric used.
• Short descriptions of the garment’s features. Be concise, but also specific.
• Runway Commentary: Write your own fashion show commentary in 100 to 150 words. Should your entry make it to the finals, this will be needed.

If you are selected as a finalist and your garment is being shown in the fashion show, garments are due by 10 a.m. Friday morning, October 20, at the ASDP office at the conference.