by Rachel Yeomans

Photos taken by: Stefan Klapko

Fashion-followers love knowing what the newest trend is, where the hottest runway show is, and of course who the “it” designer is. Chicagoaons were able to get a preview of some hot designer potentials even before they received their college diplomas.

Friday evening during Fashion Focus Chicago, 20 design students from four Chicago colleges strutted their stuff by showcasing collections worthy of cum laude during the runway show, Dress Code.

Each college featured five design students showcasing their collections. Columbia College Chicago paraded cinched waists, muted colors, detailed construction and very chic attitude. The Illinois Institute of Art followed with a mixture of sexy elegance with a bit of punk rock and a new way to look at denim. The one menswear line premiered for The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Despite the masculine entry, the students showcased some ethereal femininity in their collections. And you can’t leave campus without a political message. The School of the Art Institute of Chicago delivered just that – whether the crowds received its impact or not, it didn’t deter from the fantastic fabrics that were used to convey the message.

The finale collegiate team came from the International Academy of Design and Technology Chicago. And what a finale it was. Draping, mix-and-match fabrics, bright colors, and even a bit of “floral” enhancements.

Alexis Aprati

Amber Johnson

Angie Ortega

Anna Brown

Bas Talaga

Bese Guzeldere

Fraley Le

Genevieve Clifford

Jemelyn Smith

Kaely Garcia

Katherine Swanson

Kelly Kroener

Kelsey Heiniger

Maureen Sullivan

Meranda McNeill

Olivia Kim

Philip Gueorguiev

Rebecca Diaz

Tina Park