“Fashion Icons Through the Ages” was the theme of the first 1/2 Scale Design Challenge, launched at the 2014 American Sewing Expo and spearheaded by designer Joi Mahon.

Entrants had several months to design and make half-scale fashions inspired by a fashion icon. They interpreted the challenge in several ways: some chose a famous designer as their inspiration, while others were inspired by individuals known for wearing fashion or for influencing fashion. All half-scale garments were displayed at the 2014 American Sewing Expo and four were selected to receive prizes.

The winners of the 2014 ASE 1/2 Scale Design Challenge were:

Grand Prize: Kathleen Soltow of Okemos, MI
Fashion Icon: Elsa Schiaparelli

First Place: Ruth Ciemnoczolowski of Omaha, NE
Fashion Icon: Charles James

Second Place: Connie Bontje of Thorndale, Ontario
Fashion Icon: Coco Chanel

Third Place: Robin Bolton of Beaverton, OR
Fashion Icon: Irene, 1940s Hollywood Designer

Congratulations!

The Grand Prize-winning design by Kathleen Soltow was inspired by the work of Elsa Schiaparelli.

Ruth Ciemnoczolowski's First Place-winning creation was inspired by Charles James' "Butterfly" gown.

Connie Bontje was inspired by Coco Chanel's suits; her design won Second Place.

Robin Bolton's Third Place-winning design was inspired by 1940s' Hollywood designer, Irene.

More half-scale designs from the 1/2 Scale Design Challenge.

More half-scale designs from the 1/2 Scale Design Challenge.

More half-scale designs from the 1/2 Scale Design Challenge.

More half-scale designs from the 1/2 Scale Design Challenge.