Let’s admit it: it’s quite common for fashion designers to struggle with finding inspiration. Now that plenty of innovative designs are out there, finding ideas that haven’t been done before can be challenging.
Amped designs at Philly Flower Show
From March 7-9th, Made Institute graduates showcased their designs at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. They were hand-selected by a group of Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) judges to display their designs alongside floral arrangements inspired by the garments.
This is the third flower show where Made students present their work. Celebrate their unique designs created for the theme, The Garden Electric, inspired by the word "amped."
Ellis Vernon - 1st place winner
Ellis graduated from Made Institute in 2019. They specialize in queer fashion made from plastic. Catch their upcoming competition, Seam Queens, at Franky Bradley’s on March 26th.
Kenisha Young
Originally from Wilmington, Delaware, Kenisha is a 2022 Made graduate and emerging new designer in the DE/Philly areas. Her brand Yonetté is womenswear-focused, providing made-to-measure options of luxé garments to any and all shapes. She centers her collections around couture techniques to accentuate the natural figure.
Nicole Maria Ryan
Nicole graduated in 2021 and created Kawaru Yuki, a couture-technique studio, while studying at Made Institute. It specializes in one-of-a-kind couture art pieces.
Lizbeth Flores
2017 graduate Lizbeth’s brand, La Flor del Encanto, is inspired by her upbringing in Puerto Rico. Her mission is to make custom creations for women with a tropical-glamour aesthetic.
We were proud to be able to see their designs in person alongside other talented local artists. We look forward to seeing more of the unique creations by students at the next show!
Made Institute Founder/CEO Rachel Ford explains, “We are so excited to work with PHS and the Philadelphia Flower Show again this year. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to showcase their work in front of a national audience and to collaborate on a theme that is sure to live up to its name.”
By: Tessie Devlin, Made Institute Assistant Program Director
Shop our designer gift guide
December arrived very quickly, and the holiday season gift-giving stress was real. We have curated a list of some of our favorite community business to make your shopping easy during all seasons.
Camilla Mustard by DDP Graduate Ali Dworsack
“The confetti to your wardrobe" and hand painted sustainable fashion.
Photog: Ali Dworsack
ENTREM by DDP graduate and sewing instructor Dylan Pritchard
Artisanal clothing and accessory brand influenced by harsh architectural design to futuristic geometry.
Model: Dylan Pritchard
HIERRI by DDP graduate Taylor Alyssa
Nouveau couture with a focus on bringing couture inspired pieces to fashion forward women.
Fite Fashion by former student Michelle Fite
Modern sustainable luxury clothing
Model: Allison Ann
Photog: Anthony Parker
Lauren Chiu by DDP graduate Lauren Chiu
Clips, rings, and chains, each woven one ring at a time
Photog: Lauren Chiu, DDP graduate
Yonetté by DDP graduate and sewing instructor Kenisha Young
Where haute couture meets ready-to-wear created
La’Agra by DDP graduate Rekha Ananthanpillai
Inspired by elements from her South Asian heritage, the brand is a collection of one-of-a-kind dresses for the modern-day high fashion woman.
Julicia Rose by sewing instructor Julicia James
Paintings, sewing patterns, and PDF workbooks for creatives.
Photog: Julicia James
Sustain by DDP graduate Audra McGee
Using organic fabric, Sustain creates clothing for women who are inspired by environmental and spiritual values.
Model & Photog: Audra McGee
Weather or Not Equestrian by DDP graduate Rachel Geiger
Water resistant, dirt & mud repellent breeches
Model: Tiff Morrissey
Photog: Kind Media LLC
ALUMNI by DDP student Alex Kervandjian
Recycled & recirculated unisex vintage clothing
Photog: Alex Kervandjian
Oodelooo Ballet by DDP student Melissa DeLorenzo
Luxury ballet skirts that can be worn in the studio and out on the town.
Model: Madison Ridolfi
Photog: Noel Valero
Julia Silver by DDP student Julia Silver
Unique reworked pieces
Model: Julia Silver
Photog: German Ayala Vazquez
Damiano Collection by instructor Alex Damiano
Artisan loungewear and natural beauty accessories
Model: @mariambek
These are just a handful of our talented community members. The next time you purchase a gift for a loved one, consider supporting these local and talented artists.
By: Tessie Devlin, Assistant Program Director
Build a creative workspace at home with tips from our CEO!
5 Fashion Documentaries to Inspire Your Next Project
Struggling to find inspiration for your next project? Taking a much-needed break from your daily humdrum routine?
Here is a curated list of 5 fashion documentaries that are not only the perfect escape for daily life but also a promised land for anyone who is curious about the behind-the-scenes of fashion shows, the history behind the most important figures and moments in fashion history, or, just to simply admire the beauty of fashion itself…
12 Sustainable Tips for your Clothing Brand
Spring 2020 Graduate Runway Show
Philly Fashion Week has come and gone and it was a big success for our students that were capping off their journey at Made Institute. The event was an opportunity for the students that many people will not be able to experience. They designed, and constructed their own collection and it walked the runway during the top nights of Philly Fashion Week. The graduates encountered the stresses that come with any runway show - from last minute alterations to quick changes between looks. They also got to feel the relief that comes after having an impactful show and a platform to express themselves through clothing.
Streetwear is Dead.
Llani x Edaalia - Worldly shoes for the Philadelphia Runway
Rosemary Schwartz is a Made Institute student who is debuting at Philly Fashion Week in February 2020! She has collaborated with a Philadelphia based brand called Llani which designs and sells shoes that Rosemary and us all greatly admire. She first saw the brand at the Fishtown Flea Market where she became obsessed!
Welcome to Made Institute!
Welcome to the Made Institute blog! As Philadelphia’s independent fashion design and sewing school, our mission is to give our perspective on the ever changing world of fashion and art. On this blog you will find student interviews, showcases for local businesses, and commentary on the most recent fashion developments!