Sep. 30--While most people may not think of Goodwill thrift store bargains and couture as synonymous, a group of local students have used their talents to transform everyday garments found at Goodwill into stylish works of fashion art in an inaugural design contest.

The students' designs were going to be showcased as part of a runway fashion event, "Eco-Couture," on Thursday, Oct. 8, at the Aquarium of the Pacific. But Goodwill officials announced Wednesday that the event had been canceled due to financial concerns.

Richard Guise, director of public relations and development for Goodwill SOLAC, said there is potential to have a design contest and fund-raising fashion show next year.

Students who participated in the redesign contest received $25 vouchers to purchase an inspiration garment (or two) from local Goodwill stores. Applicants had approximately two weeks to design garments, and 15 finalists were chosen to be eligible for scholarships after three judges evaluated designs Saturday, Sept. 26.

"Doing an eco-friendly fashion (design contest) applies to the mission of the Goodwill," Guise said. "Goodwill has recycled clothes for 80 years."

Kelly Dessecker, 34, is a fashion design student at Long Beach City College (LBCC) who participated in the contest and is a finalist.

Dessecker said she is an accessory designer specializing in handbags, but in addition to a handbag, her 1940s-inspired fit-and-flare day dress came with a pillbox hat.

"It was the first hat I had ever made," said Dessecker, who bought three different-sized gingham dresses to make the outfit and accessories for her model, Karen Collins.

"But I like a challenge," she said. "I drafted the pattern for the hat myself. I love creating things from recycled garments, so this assignment was right up my alley."

Melissa Botten, 28, is Dessecker's classmate and also a finalist, but Botten has a unique niche: couture maternity wear. Botten said she returned to school to learn merchandising and design after earning a business degree in 2006.

"Owning my own business is my goal," Botten said.

"The dress I made for this competition used to be a prom dress and I reversed my garment so the lining of the skirt is shown on the outside. This maternity dress is a sample size but I also want to do plus sizes."

Botten, who is not pregnant, said she made a "belly pouch" that she wore herself while stitching the garment to ensure proper sizing.

Guise said another panel of judges will determine winners this month. First prize will be a $500 scholarship, second place receives $250 and third place is $100, with the prizes donated by Goodwill.

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