The University of Texas at Austin’s Senior Design Student Fashion Show, “Elements,” takes place on April 14 at 7:15 p.m. at the Frank Erwin Center. Twenty two students will showcase athletic-wear and bridal pieces they created last semester, and a three-piece collection they have been working on this semester. Admission is free and open to the public.

Story by Ethan Elkins

Photos by Malayna Ellis 

In this final installment, ORANGE interviewed four design students and asked about their collections, inspiration and plans after graduation.

Arlet Betancourt — 21, Design Major

What inspired your collection?

My collection is inspired by medieval and fairytale costumes, similar to the show “Once Upon a Time.” I really love all of the costumes they wear. When you think of fairytale attire, you would usually first think of princess gowns, so I decided I wanted to go the opposite route and make what the hero would wear.

Which piece are you the most proud of?

My wedding gown. It has kind of like a mermaid bodice with a lot of lace. I used around thirty patches of lace that I beaded by hand with 200 beads. The bodice up to the hips is lace, and then above that is tulle.

Which designer inspires you?

One of my favorite designers is Carolina Herrera. Her aesthetic is very classic and feminine. She is such a perfectionist, and I admire that. She loves what she does and has been doing it for such a long time that she knows exactly what she is doing. I hope to one day be like her.

Which area of the design industry do you aspire to go into?

My dream goal is to have my own bridal boutique. Actually making a wedding gown taught me that it was a challenge, but it is one I would love to keep doing over.

Tiffany Chan — 21, Design Major and Plan II Honors

What inspired your collection?

I believe a woman can be strong and feminine at the same time. I don’t believe you have to give up your femininity to be a powerful woman, so my collection is about finding that balance. Many people think to be powerful you have to include masculine details. I drew inspiration from the strength and beauty of ballerinas by using a lot of tulle to show [a] childlike wonder.

What types of pieces did you make?

My three looks each have a leotard with a sheer overskirt or pants. They’re all made of the same grey tulle.

What’s your favorite type of garment to design?

Evening wear and bridal gowns. That’s what I want to do if I decide to pursue design. I’d love to do one-of-a-kind [pieces] or couture.

Carolina Ramos — 22, Design Major

What inspired your collection?

I really like to work with leather, and I have been incorporating leather into all of my projects since I was a freshman. I like minimalistic and contemporary aesthetics, which is what I am going for with my leather outerwear.

What types of pieces did you make?

I made two leather jackets and one leather vest. I also made one menswear look and two womenswear looks.

What do you plan to do after you graduate?

I’m moving to New York, and I will hopefully find a job there. I’ve applied to a couple of internships there, and I am waiting to hear back.

Peter Middleton — 23, Design Major

What inspired your collection?

Western wear.

What types of pieces did you make?

Three coats, three pants, three shirts.

What do you plan to do after you graduate?

I have an internship in New York City.