STUDENTS OF STYLE
Be the first to see the work of the freshest collections on the local fashion scene. On Saturday, the University of Minnesota will host "Distortion," its annual senior student fashion show. Here's a look at the work of a few promising, soon-to-graduate designers.1. LESLIE A RANDALL, 22
Collection inspiration: "It's all about the balance between retro and modern," she said. "I wanted to take the timelessness of Jackie Kennedy and shake it up through texture and silhouettes that emphasize volume."
Style advice: "Rely on the classics, and then find new ways to reinvent and update them through pops of color and innovative fabrics."
First project: A Care Bear flag in seventh grade. "I got a C -- hideous," she said.
Post-college plans: "I spent this past summer interning in New York for Simply Vera Vera Wang. I am itching to go back."
2. KAYLA FRAZIER, 21
Collection inspiration: "I was inspired by traditional costumes from East African tribes," she said. "I really wanted to incorporate beading, body art and vivid color into a culturally centered contemporary women's line."
Style advice: Invest in jackets. "They can have many uses for different occasions, dress up basic pieces and give the wearer an aesthetically pleasing holistic look," said Frazier.
First project: A paneled pencil skirt. "Sewing zippers is definitely a skill that requires many tries," she said.
Post-college plans: Move to New York, work for a medium-sized company and "be inspired by the city," she said.